Author: Flying Horse Medical Center

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Summer Confidence: Sizzle in the Sunshine

Summer Confidence: Sizzle in the Sunshine

Summer in the Colorado Springs and Monument, Colorado areas is here, and it’s your time to shine! Whether you’re planning beach trips, family barbecues, or poolside relaxation, you deserve to feel confident in every setting. If you’ve been dreaming of enhancing your body with minimal downtime, now is the perfect time to explore options like Arm Liposuction or Love Handles Liposuction.

Arm liposuction targets those stubborn areas that don’t respond to workouts, helping you rock sleeveless dresses and tank tops with confidence. Love handles Liposuction sculpts your midsection, creating a more contoured silhouette. Both procedures can be performed discreetly in the comfort of a private medical office without the need for general anesthesia, making them quick and safe options for Moms who need results without the hassle of long recovery periods.

As a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and Mom, I specialize in helping Moms feel their best. I understand the demands of Motherhood and the importance of self-care. These minimally invasive procedures are designed to fit seamlessly into your summer schedule, so you can get back to making memories with your family in no time.

Trust a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who understands what it’s like to juggle family, work, and personal goals. From Harvard to Hollywood, I have trained and honed my surgical skills to help bring out the very best physique, for all those Moms who have sacrificed—mind, body, and spirit—for their children.  

This June, make yourself a priority. Schedule a consultation with me, Dr. Millicent Geers, to learn how these procedures can help you feel radiant and confident all summer long. Let’s make this your most feel-good, confident summer yet!

From one Mom to another, I see you and carry on smartly.
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What You Need to Know About Medical Weight Loss

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Concierge Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics, Psychiatry

What You Need to Know About Medical Weight Loss

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Concierge Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics, Psychiatry

There’s much more to weight loss than looking better- it also helps you feel better, improves your health, and live a fuller life. However, for many, traditional weight loss methods such as fad diets and high-intensity workout programs don’t deliver long-term results. This is where medical weight loss comes in.

Flying Horse Medical Center offers personalized, science-based weight loss solutions designed to help you successfully and sustainably reach your goals. Whether you’re struggling to lose a few stubborn pounds or facing more significant health challenges due to excess weight, here’s what you need to know about medical weight loss and how it can help you.

What Is Medical Weight Loss?

Medical weight loss is a supervised, clinically backed approach to weight loss. Unlike diet trends or commercial weight loss programs, medical weight loss is guided by healthcare professionals that assess your overall health and create a customized plan that addresses the root cause of weight gain.

This approach includes a combination of:

  • Nutritional counseling
  • Prescription medications/appetite suppressants
  • Lifestyle coaching
  • Fitness recommendations
  • Lab testing to uncover underlying health concerns
  • Ongoing medical supervision/support

The goal is to help support your overall well-being and improve long-term health outcomes.

Why Choose a Medical Weight Loss Program?

There are plenty of weight loss plans on the market, but many are unsustainable or unsafe. Medical weight loss stands out because it is:

Personalized to You

Flying Horse Medical Center understands that every person’s body, metabolism, and lifestyle are different. Our providers will get to know you, review your medical history, and tailor a plan that fits your needs and goals.

Clinically Supervised

When you have medical supervision, you can be sure that your progress is being monitored by professionals. This reduces the risk of negative side effects and ensures that your plan stays aligned with your overall health.

Focused on Long-Term Success

Medical weight loss isn’t a quick fix but about building sustainable habits and creating lasting change. We work with you to set realistic goals, track your progress, and provide the support you need to maintain your results over time.

Who Can Benefit From Medical Weight Loss?

If you’ve tried to lose weight on your own and haven’t had success or if you have underlying health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, or thyroid problems, medical weight loss may be a good option for you.

This program can benefit those who:

  • Are overweight/obese
  • Struggle with emotional or stress-related eating
  • Have hit a plateau despite eating healthy and exercising
  • Need a structured, professional plan, as well as accountability and ongoing support

You don’t need to lose a lot of weight to see the benefits. Many patients experience significant health improvements by losing just 5 to 10% of their body weight.

Common Tools/Treatments in Medical Weight Loss

Flying Horse Medical Center uses a variety of tools, depending on your personal needs, including:

Metabolic Testing

This will help us understand how your body burns calories and whether your metabolism may be impacting your progress.

Prescription Weight Loss Medications

In some cases, FDA-approved medications may be used to curb appetite, improve metabolism, or regulate insulin levels.

Nutritional Guidance

We will provide individualized coaching on how to eat well without feeling deprived. We do not believe in crash diets- just sustainable, balanced nutrition.

Hormone Optimization

Hormone imbalances such as cortisol, insulin, and thyroid can impact weight loss. In some cases, we will recommend testing and treatment to restore balance.

Behavioral Support

Mindset plays a significant role in long-term success. We can help patients manage stress, identify emotional eating patterns, and build healthy routines.

Is Medical Weight Loss Safe?

When done under the care of qualified professionals, medical weight loss is safe and effective. The providers at Flying Horse Medical Center work with patients to closely monitor progress and make adjustments as needed to ensure safety and success.

We believe that it’s not about extreme restrictions or fast fixes. We work with patients to create a plan that supports overall health and wellness.

Invest in Your Health

If you’re tired of feeling frustrated with your weight loss efforts, medical weight loss may be the solution. Flying Horse Medical Center combines the latest science with compassionate, personalized care to help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight- for life.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how our medical weight loss program can help you reclaim your energy, confidence, and health.

 

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Prioritizing Mental Health

Prioritizing Mental Health

We focus on Mental Health Awareness during the month of May. This is a time to shine a light on the importance of emotional well-being, encourage open conversations, and most importantly, break the stigma that keeps people from seeking help. However, the message behind this awareness matters all year long.

The professionals at Flying Horse Medical center in Colorado Springs believe that your mental health is just as important as your physical health. This is why we take a holistic approach to care, supporting the full spectrum of your health: mind, body, and spirit. After all, when your mental wellness is nurtured, you can live a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Why Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health Matters

Mental health impacts every part of our lives: how we think, feel, relate to others, and navigate stress. Strong mental health helps us find our purpose, build relationships, and thrive through the ups and downs of life.

However, despite this, mental illness is widely misunderstood. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 20% of adults in the United States experiences a mental illness each year- that’s more than 50 million people. Unfortunately, due to fear of judgement, shame, or misunderstanding, many of these people suffer in silence.

The stigma associated with mental illness tells people they’re weak for struggling, depression is just laziness, and anxiety is all in their head. The truth is that mental health conditions are medical conditions and deserve the same compassion and treatment as a physical illness.

When we can talk about mental health openly, we reduce the stigma and let others know that it’s okay to not be okay- and it’s okay to ask for help.

Common Signs of Mental Health Struggles

Mental health struggles look different for different people. Some will put on a brave face and power through, while others withdraw from the world around them. When we know the signs, we can better support ourselves and others:

  • Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness for extended periods of time
  • Mood swings, irritability, or emotional outbursts
  • Withdrawing from friends, family, or once-loved activities
  • Trouble concentrating or making decisions
  • Changes in appetite and/or sleep patterns
  • Unexplained physical aches and pains
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

If you notice these in yourself or those around you, don’t ignore them. These are signals that support is needed. Help is available, you just have to reach out.

How to Prioritize Mental Wellness

There’s more to caring for mental health than reacting when something feels off- it also involves creating habits that promote emotional resilience and balance. There are several things you can do to support your mental well-being:

  • Stay connected: social relationships are critical for emotional health- make sure that you always make time for friends and family
  • Get moving: exercise doesn’t just benefit your body- it also relieves stress and boosts mood and energy
  • Practice mindfulness: activities such as deep breathing, journaling, or meditation can help you ground your thoughts and calm your mind
  • Set boundaries: learn to say “NO” to protect your time and energy
  • Talk to someone: sharing your thoughts and feelings can help whether it’s a friend, therapist, or counselor

Maintaining your mental health is just as important as physical checkups. The sooner you address a concern, the better your chances of healing and growth. 

Creating a Culture of Openness

One of the best ways to support Mental Health Awareness Month is to normalize the conversation. This means that we need to be checking in on our friends, being honest about our own struggles, and refusing to let outdated stereotypes to define how we view mental illness.

Flying Horse Medical Center believes that everyone deserves to be heard, seen, and supported. Our providers listen without judgement and offer compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your personal needs.

Whether you’re navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, or everyday stress, you don’t have to do it all alone.

Take the First Step Toward Better Mental Health

If you are feeling overwhelmed or disconnected and don’t know where to start- you are not alone. The good news is, you don’t have to navigate your struggles alone.

The mental health team at Flying Horse Medical Center is here to support you with compassionate, comprehensive, and confidential care. We offer personalized treatment plans that include a combination of therapy and/or medication management. This is part of our holistic approach to wellness.

Let’s work together to break the stigma. Reach out today to schedule your mental health consultation and take the first step toward healing and hope.

 

 

 

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Mother’s Day in Colorado Springs

Mother’s Day in Colorado Springs

Mother’s Day is the perfect reminder to celebrate not just the Moms you love, but also yourself. As a Mom, you dedicate so much to your family, often putting your needs last. This May, why not give yourself the gift of confidence? Whether it’s a small enhancement like Upper Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) to refresh tired eyes or Chin Liposuction to redefine your profile, these subtle yet transformative procedures can make a world of difference in how you feel about yourself.
 

Discreet, with little downtime

Performed discreetly in the comfort of a private medical office without the need for general anesthesia, these treatments offer minimal downtime, making them ideal for busy Moms. Upper blepharoplasty can brighten your look by removing excess skin from the eyelids, giving you a more youthful and rested appearance. Chin liposuction, on the other hand, refines your jawline, enhancing your natural beauty. Both procedures allow you to head back to carpool duty or your favorite yoga class in no time.

Focus on you this Mother’s Day

As a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon—and a Mom myself—I know the challenges of balancing self-care with Motherhood. This Mother’s Day, let’s focus on you. It’s not about vanity—it’s about feeling like the best version of yourself. When you feel good, it radiates to everyone around you.

Trust a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who understands what it’s like to juggle family, work, and personal goals. From Harvard to Hollywood, I have trained and honed my surgical skills to help bring out the very best physique, for all those Moms who have sacrificed—mind, body, and spirit—for their children.  
 

Schedule Your Consultation

Let’s celebrate the amazing Mom you are. Schedule a consultation with me, Dr. Millicent Geers, this May and give yourself the confidence boost you deserve. After all, self-love is the best gift you can give yourself—and your family.
 
From one Mom to another, I see you and carry on smartly.
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Choosing the Right Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatment

Beautiful woman getting facial microdermabrasion peeling treatment at luxury cosmetic beauty spa clinic. Exfoliation, rejuvenation and hydratation. Cosmetology concept.

Choosing the Right Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatment

Beautiful woman getting facial microdermabrasion peeling treatment at luxury cosmetic beauty spa clinic. Exfoliation, rejuvenation and hydratation. Cosmetology concept.

Aging is a natural process. Unfortunately, it can wreak havoc on your skin, which can be frustrating. Over time, collagen production is reduced, which leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and a loss of elasticity. Lifestyle choices, sun exposure, and other environmental factors can also contribute to uneven skin tone, pigmentation issues, and a rough texture. While a great skin care routine helps, sometimes you need a more advanced solution to restore your youthful, radiant complexion.

Skin resurfacing laser treatments can minimize the signs of aging, improve skin tone and texture, and increase your confidence. However, with so many options, how do you know which one is right for you?

The team at Flying Horse Medical Center is here to help you understand your options and choose the right one for you.

Understanding Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatments

Skin resurfacing laser treatments use focused light energy to remove damaged skin layers, stimulate collagen production, and reveal fresh, younger-looking skin. These treatments effectively address:

They key to getting satisfactory results is to choose the right type of laser treatment for your skin type and concerns.

Types of Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatments

Its important to understand that all lasers do not work the same way- each type has its own benefits. The two primary categories are ablative and non-ablative lasers.

Ablative Lasers: Deep Resurfacing

Ablative lasers are most appropriate for deep wrinkles, significant sun damage, and scars because they remove the top layers of skin. These treatments offer dramatic results but require more downtime for healing.

The most common types of ablative lasers are:

  • CO2 Lasers: best for deeper wrinkles, scars, and sun damage. While they do offer impressive results, they also require a longer recovery period.
  • Erbium Lasers: gentler than CO2 lasers, work best for moderate wrinkles and pigmentation with a shorter healing time.

Non-Ablative Lasers: Minimal Downtime

Non-ablative lasers work beneath the skin’s surface without removing layers, making them ideal for those who want results with little to no downtime.

The most common types of non-ablative lasers are:

  • Fractional Lasers: ideal for fine lines, uneven skin tone, and acne scars by creating micro-injuries that stimulate collagen production.
  • Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): while not a true laser, this treatment reduces redness, pigmentation, and sun damage.

How to Choose the Right Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatment

When choosing the right skin resurfacing laser treatment, you’ll need to consider your skin type, concerns, and desired downtime. Here’s a simple breakdown:

  • Deep wrinkles/scars: CO2 or Erbium ablative lasers
  • Mild/Moderate Aging Concerns: Fractional non-ablative lasers
  • Pigmentation issues: IPL or Erbium lasers
  • Minimal downtime: Non-ablative fractional lasers or IPL

What to Expect from a Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatment

While there are some minor variations between the laser treatments, here’s what you can typically expect:

  • Consultation: we will assess your skin and recommend the best option for your skin and needs.
  • Pre-treatment prep: some treatments require avoiding sun exposure or using specific products beforehand.
  • Procedure: sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being treated.
  • Recovery: ablative treatments typically require at least a week for healing, while non-ablative options require little to no downtime.
  • Results: as your skin heals, you’ll notice some improvements- but full results develop over several weeks or months.

Find the Best Treatment at Flying Horse Medical Center

Flying Horse Medical Center offers expert skin resurfacing treatments tailored to your unique needs. We will guide you through the process, ensuring that you choose the safest and most effective option for your skin type and concerns.

If you’re ready to refresh your skin, take the first step towards smoother, more youthful skin by scheduling your consultation today.

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Summer Confidence in Colorado Springs

smiling young woman stretching arms at home

Summer Confidence in Colorado Springs

smiling young woman stretching arms at home
Moms, summer will be here before you know it! And this summer, it’s time to embrace the season with confidence. For many Moms, summer means swimsuits, shorts, and sleeveless tops—and with that, the desire to feel comfortable and confident in your own skin. 

Procedures like Arm Liposuction or Cankle Liposuction under local anesthesia are designed to help you achieve a more contoured and proportionate look, perfect for showing off your summer wardrobe.

Arm Liposuction targets stubborn fat in the upper arms, creating a slimmer and more defined appearance. Cankle liposuction, on the other hand, focuses on the lower legs, enhancing their shape and contour. Both procedures can be performed discreetly in the comfort of a private medical office without the need for general anesthesia, offering you a safe and comfortable experience with minimal downtime. As a Mom, you’re always on the go, and these quick recovery times mean you won’t miss out on summer fun with your family.

As a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and Mom, I understand the unique challenges Moms face when it comes to self-confidence and body image. My goal is to provide results that look natural and help you feel like the best version of yourself. Whether you’re heading to the beach, attending summer events, or simply enjoying time outdoors, these procedures can help you feel more confident and radiant.

Trust a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who understands what it’s like to juggle family, work, and personal goals. From Harvard to Hollywood, I have trained and honed my surgical skills to help bring out the very best physique, for all those Moms who have sacrificed—mind, body, and spirit—for their children.  

Summer is the season for self-expression and embracing your beauty. If you’ve been considering a cosmetic enhancement, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Schedule a consultation with me, Dr. Millicent Geers, to learn more about Arm Liposuction, Cankle Liposuction, or other procedures that can help you feel confident all season long. Let’s make this summer your most beautiful and self-assured yet.

From one Mom to another, I see you and carry on smartly.
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How to Stop Excessive Sweating

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument

How to Stop Excessive Sweating

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument

According to research, millions of people are impacted by a condition known as hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating. This condition is more than just a minor inconvenience- it can impact your confidence, stain your clothing, and make social interactions uncomfortable. If you have found that you constantly have to freshen your deodorant, avoid certain fabrics, or feeling self-conscious about sweat marks and odor, you’re not alone.

The team at Flying Horse Medical Center understands how frustrating this condition can be- and we offer solutions that provide real, lasting results. One of the most effective treatments on the market today is miraDry®- a revolutionary procedure that permanently eliminates underarm sweating.

Why do Some People Sweat More than Others?

Sweating is a natural bodily function that regulates temperature. However, some individuals experience overactive sweat glands, which means they produce more sweat than necessary. Hyperhidrosis can occur even if you’re not hot or physically active, often impacting the hands, feet, face, and underarms.

While certain medical conditions, genetics, or stress can contribute to this condition, many times, it occurs without a clear underlying cause. For patients who struggle with persistent underarm sweat, traditional remedies such as antiperspirants or prescription medications may not offer sufficient relief.

Treatment Options for Hyperhidrosis

Typically, managing excessive sweating involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatments. Some of the most common approaches include:

  • Clinical-strength antiperspirant: often the first line of defense- but can cause skin irritation and may not work for severe cases.
  • Oral medications: some prescriptions can help reduce sweating- but often have side effects including blurry vision, dry mouth, and dizziness.
  • Botox injections: can temporarily block sweat gland signals, but requires re-treatment every 4 to 6 months.
  • Iontophoresis: uses electrical currents to reduce sweating- primarily on the hands and feet- but requires ongoing maintenance.

If you’re suffering from hyperhidrosis and are looking for a permanent, non-invasive option, consider miraDry®.

What Makes miraDry® Different?

Unlike other treatment options that require multiple sessions or ongoing maintenance, miraDry® offers permanent results in as little as one session. This FDA-cleared procedure uses thermal energy to eliminate sweat and odor glands in the underarms. Since these glands do not regenerate, the results last a lifetime.

Key benefits of miraDry® include:

  • Immediate, lasting results: many patients have a dramatic reduction in sweating right away.
  • Non-surgical, minimally invasive: no incisions, stitches, or long recovery periods.
  • Little to no downtime: most patients can go back to normal activities the same day.
  • Reduction of underarm odor and hair: bonus benefit of the treatment- no hair!

What to Expect with miraDry®

The miraDry® procedure is quick and painless, typically lasting about an hour. Before we get started, a local anesthetic will be applied to the underarm. The device then delivers controlled thermal energy, safely eliminating sweat and odor glands.

After treatment, you may experience some mild swelling and tenderness- but most patients are able to return to their usual activities the same day. Unlike other temporary treatments, such as Botox injections, this treatment is a one-time investment in your confidence and comfort.

Why Choose miraDry® at Flying Horse Medical Center?

Flying Horse Medical Center specializes in advanced, non-invasive treatments that are designed to improve your quality of life. We are dedicated to helping patients find the best solutions for their personal needs and we’ve seen firsthand how miraDry® transforms lives.

If you are tired of dealing with underarm sweat, odor, and discomfort, it’s time to take action. With miraDry®, you can enjoy the freedom of dry underarms without the need for deodorants or antiperspirants.

Schedule your consultation with us today to discuss how miraDry® can help you feel cool, confident, and carefree.

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Refresh Your Look

refresh your look Neck Lift Concept. Smiling African American Woman Touching Her Soft Smooth Skin

Refresh Your Look

refresh your look Neck Lift Concept. Smiling African American Woman Touching Her Soft Smooth Skin
Spring is a season of renewal, making it the perfect time to refresh your look and embrace a more confident you. For Moms, the arrival of spring often means shedding the winter blues and stepping into a season full of energy and possibilities. 

Procedures like a Facelift or Neck Lift are excellent options for gently lifting and tightening your features, giving you a youthful and refreshed appearance. Both procedures can be performed discreetly in the comfort of a private medical office without the need for general anesthesia, offering you a safe and comfortable experience with minimal downtime. 

These procedures are designed to address common concerns such as sagging skin, fine lines, and loss of definition around the jawline and neck. The best part? They can be performed under local anesthesia, making them a safe and convenient choice for busy Moms. Recovery is quick and manageable, allowing you to return to your daily activities with minimal interruption. Whether you’re attending spring events or simply enjoying more time outdoors, you’ll feel confident and radiant.

As a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and Mom, I take pride in offering personalized care that aligns with your unique goals and lifestyle. I understand that Moms often put their needs last, but Spring is the perfect time to prioritize yourself. These subtle yet impactful procedures can help you feel as vibrant on the outside as you are on the inside.

Spring is also an ideal time to schedule these treatments, as the cooler weather allows for comfortable healing before the summer season. Imagine stepping into summer with a refreshed look and renewed confidence. Whether it’s a Mini Facelift, a Neck Lift, or a combination of procedures, I’m here to help you achieve natural, beautiful results that enhance your unique features.  Trust a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who understands what it’s like to juggle family, work, and personal goals. From Harvard to Hollywood, I have trained and honed my surgical skills to help bring out the very best physique, for all those moms who have sacrificed—mind, body, and spirit—for their children.  

Let this season of renewal inspire you to invest in yourself. Schedule a consultation with me, Dr. Millicent Geers, today to explore how we can create a personalized plan to help you look and feel your best. This spring, it’s time to bloom with confidence.

From one Mom to another, I see you and carry on smartly.
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Love Your Look

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Plastic Surgery

Love Your Look

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Plastic Surgery
Valentine’s Day isn’t just about showing love to others—it’s about loving yourself too. For Moms in the Colorado Springs and Monument, Colorado areas, this special day is an excellent reminder that self-care is a form of self-love. If you’ve been dreaming of subtle enhancements that bring out your natural beauty, Valentine’s is the perfect time to make those dreams a reality. 

Procedures like Chin Liposuction can redefine your profile, enhancing your features and boosting your confidence. Alternatively, Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation offers a natural way to enhance your curves, using your own fat for results that feel uniquely yours.

Both of these procedures can be performed discreetly in the comfort of a private medical office, without the need for general anesthesia, offering you a safe and comfortable experience with minimal downtime. 

As a Mom, you’re constantly giving to others, but Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to give back to yourself. Imagine the confidence you’ll feel walking into date night or even just a casual outing, knowing you look and feel your best.

As a Female Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and Mom, I specialize in helping other Moms achieve their aesthetic goals while prioritizing their busy lifestyles. I understand the unique challenges of balancing self-care with the demands of Motherhood. That’s why I offer procedures designed with your schedule in mind—no lengthy recoveries, no unnecessary risks, just beautiful, natural-looking results that let your confidence shine through.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate you. Whether you’re looking to refine your profile, enhance your curves, or simply explore options for feeling your best, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. From Harvard to Hollywood, I have trained and honed my surgical skills to help bring out the very best physique for all those moms who have sacrificed—mind, body, and spirit—for their children.  

Schedule a consultation with me, Dr. Millicent Geers, to learn how we can create a customized plan that fits your needs. You deserve to feel as beautiful as the love you share with those around you.

From one Mom to another, I see you and carry on smartly.
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Proactive Heart Health Care

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Plastic Surgery

Proactive Heart Health Care

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Plastic Surgery

While you may not give it much thought, your heart is the organ that keeps you alive and thriving, tirelessly pumping blood through your veins. Therefore, it’s important that you give it the attention that it needs.

The team at Flying Horse Medical Center believes that proactive care is critical to a long, healthy life. This is why we offer Carotid Intima-Media Thickness, or CIMT scans, a revolutionary tool to assess the health of your cardiovascular system and detect potential issues before they escalate.

What is a CIMT scan?

A CIMT scan is a non-invasive ultrasound test that measures the thickness of the inner two layers- intima and media- of the carotid artery. These arteries are located in your neck and are responsible for supplying blood to your brain. The thickness of these layers indicates your overall cardiovascular health.

A CIMT scan allows your physician to identify early signs of atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup. This helps to assess your risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular complications. This procedure is safe and painless, offering an effective, proactive approach to your heart health.

Importance of Cardiovascular Health

Research shows that cardiovascular disease, or CVD, is the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming approximately 17.9 million lives annually. Unfortunately, many heart-related issues develop silently over time, with most patients showing no symptoms until a major event happens such as a heart attack or stroke.

The most common risk factors for CVD include:

  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Smoking
  • Family history of heart disease
  • Diabetes

Even if you feel healthy, you may have some underlying issues. This is where the CIMT scan comes it. This scan can uncover potential issues before they manifest into something more serious.

How Does a CIMT Scan Work?

CIMT scans are simple and stress-free. Here’s what to expect:

  • There is no special prep needed for a CIMT scan. You’ll go to the office and lie down comfortable while a trained technician uses an ultrasound device to examine your carotid arteries.
  • High-resolution ultrasound technology captures detailed images of the walls of your carotid artery, measuring the thickness of the intima and media layers, detecting any plaque buildup.
  • The doctor analyses your results to assess your cardiovascular risk.

The process takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes and there’s no downtime- which means its convenient for even the busiest schedules.

What makes a CIMT scan different?

A CIMT scan, unlike traditional cardiovascular tests looks deeper. While a stress test and cholesterol screenings do offer valuable information, they typically only detect problems after they have developed.

A CIMT scan identifies subclinical atherosclerosis, which means it can detect plaque buildup before symptoms appear. This allows you to take preventative measures and work with your healthcare team to reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke.

Who should consider a CIMT scan?

There are several categories of individuals who should consider getting a CIMT scan, including:

  • Those with a family history of cardiovascular disease
  • Those with high risk factors including diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity
  • Those who are over the age of 40 and want to take a proactive approach to their health
  • Those who have experienced symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and/or fatigue
  • Those who are seeking a comprehensive understanding of their heart health

Even if you don’t fall into these categories, a CIMT scan can still be beneficial by giving you a clear picture of your cardiovascular condition.

Benefits of Getting a CIMT Scan at Flying Horse Medical Center

The team at Flying Horse Medical Center prioritizes health and wellness through state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and personalized care. Following are a few of the benefits of choosing us for your CIMT scan:

  • Our high-resolution imaging ensures accurate and reliable results
  • We are committed to helping you achieve optimal health
  • Early detection allows you to take a proactive approach to your cardiovascular health rather than a reactive approach
  • The scan is quick and non-invasive, which means it will fit easily into your busy schedule

Once we have the results of your scan, we’ll create a tailored care plan including lifestyle and dietary changes. If necessary, we’ll recommend medical interventions.

Taking Action: What Comes After a CIMT Scan?

After your scan, we will take the time to explain your results and what they mean for your cardiovascular health. If plaque buildup or an increased risk is detected, we will work with you to create a personalized plan to reduce those risk factors including:

  • Adopting a heart healthy diet that incorporates fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains
  • Increasing physical activity
  • Managing stress through relaxation techniques and/or counseling
  • Using targeted treatments to address medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension

Invest in Your Heart Health Today

Your heart is what keeps you going and investing in its health today could save your life tomorrow. A CIMT scan is a simple, but powerful step toward protecting yourself from the risks of cardiovascular disease. The team at Flying Horse Medical Center is here to support you every step of the way. Schedule your CIMT scan today to begin your journey toward a healthier, happier future.