Author: Flying Horse Medical Center

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Decoding Dense Breasts

Decoding Dense Breasts

At Flying Horse Medical Center, we believe patients should feel informed and confident when making decisions about breast health. One term that often causes confusion after a mammogram is “dense breasts.”

Breast density describes the proportion of fibrous and glandular tissue compared with fatty tissue in the breast. It is a normal characteristic—not an illness—and it can change over time with age, hormonal factors, pregnancy, and certain medications.

Breast density is determined by a radiologist using mammography images. It is commonly reported in four categories:

  • Almost entirely fatty
  • Scattered areas of fibroglandular density
  • Heterogeneously dense
  • Extremely dense

The last two categories are generally considered “dense.” Density is not based on how a breast feels during a physical examination, and it is not the same as breast size or firmness.

Why Can Dense Tissue Affect Mammogram Accuracy?

On a mammogram, fatty tissue usually appears dark, while dense tissue appears white. Many breast abnormalities, including some cancers, can also appear white. When dense tissue is present, it may make a small abnormality more difficult to see. This is sometimes described as a “masking” effect.

Dense breasts are also associated with a modestly increased risk of developing breast cancer compared with breasts that contain more fatty tissue. Having dense breasts does not mean that cancer is present, and most people with dense breasts will not develop breast cancer.

However, breast density is one factor your healthcare professional may consider alongside age, family history, previous biopsy results, genetic risk, and other personal health information. Your density category is important, but it is only one part of the overall screening picture.

What Follow-Up Imaging May Be Recommended?

A routine screening mammogram remains an important tool for many patients, including those with dense breasts. Depending on your overall risk and the type of density reported, your clinician or radiologist may discuss additional imaging options.

3D Mammography

Digital breast tomosynthesis, often called 3D mammography, captures images from multiple angles. This can help separate overlapping tissue and may improve visualization in some patients with dense breasts.

Breast Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of breast tissue. It may help evaluate areas that are difficult to assess on a mammogram and can sometimes identify findings that are not visible on a standard mammogram.

However, ultrasound can also lead to additional callbacks or biopsies for findings that are ultimately benign. Your provider can explain the potential benefits and limitations before recommending this test.

Breast MRI

Breast MRI uses a magnetic field and contrast material to create highly detailed images. It is generally recommended for people with a significantly elevated lifetime risk of breast cancer or specific clinical indications. Breast density alone may not automatically mean that an MRI is necessary.

Contrast-Enhanced Mammography

Contrast-enhanced mammography uses contrast material along with mammographic imaging to highlight certain areas of increased blood flow. It may be considered in selected situations, depending on your medical history, local availability, and the recommendation of your care team.

How Do You Know Which Test Is Right for You?

There is no single follow-up test that is best for every person with dense breasts. Recommendations should be individualized.

Your provider may consider:

  • Breast density category
  • Age and overall health
  • Previous mammogram results
  • Family history of breast cancer
  • Genetic testing results
  • Prior biopsies
  • Current breast symptoms
  • Estimated lifetime breast cancer risk

Some patients may need routine screening only, while others may benefit from supplemental imaging or referral to a high-risk breast clinic.

It is also important to understand the possible trade-offs. Additional imaging may detect cancers that are not visible on a standard mammogram, but it can also produce false-positive findings, extra appointments, anxiety, and sometimes unnecessary biopsies.

Before scheduling an additional test, ask what it can detect, what its limitations are, whether contrast is required, and how the results could affect your care.

Stay Current With Screening

If your mammogram report says you have dense breasts, do not panic or skip future screenings. Keep your regular appointments, learn your personal risk factors, and share any new breast changes with a healthcare professional promptly.

These changes may include a new lump, nipple discharge, skin dimpling, nipple changes, or persistent localized pain. A notification about breast density is an invitation to have a more informed conversation—not a diagnosis.

Talk With Flying Horse Medical Center

Understanding breast density can help you make thoughtful decisions about screening and follow-up care. Contact Flying Horse Medical Center to discuss your mammogram results, review your personal risk factors, and determine whether additional imaging may be appropriate for you. Our team is here to provide clear guidance and compassionate support at every step of your breast-health journey.

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Prostate Cancer Screening: When Should Men Get Checked?

Prostate Cancer Screening: When Should Men Get Checked?

Let’s be honest: talking about prostate health isn’t anyone’s favorite topic. For a lot of men, scheduling a screening or bringing up urinary changes with a doctor gets pushed to the bottom of the to-do list.

But when it comes to prostate cancer, catching things early can make all the difference. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, but it is also one of the most treatable when detected early.

The big question most men—and their partners—have is: When should I actually start getting checked?

If you look online, you’ll find a mix of timelines and guidelines, which can make the whole process feel confusing. At Flying Horse Medical Center, we believe that the best approach isn’t a rigid one-size-fits-all rule. It’s an individualized conversation between you and your healthcare provider.

Here is what you need to know about prostate cancer screening, risk factors, and making the right choice for your health.

Understanding the PSA Test

When it comes to early screening, the primary tool we use is the PSA test (Prostate-Specific Antigen test).

A PSA test is simply a routine blood draw. It measures the level of a protein produced by the prostate gland. It’s important to understand that a PSA test is a screening tool, not a definitive diagnosis. If your PSA levels are elevated, it doesn’t automatically mean you have cancer. Non-cancerous conditions—like an enlarged prostate (BPH), a urinary tract infection, or even inflammation—can also cause PSA numbers to rise.

However, an elevated PSA is a valuable yellow flag. It tells us, “Hey, let’s take a closer look.” Depending on the results, your doctor may monitor your levels over time, recommend further imaging, or refer you to a specialist.

When Should You Start Screening?

Because prostate cancer often grows very slowly, screening guidelines are designed to balance catching aggressive cancers early with avoiding unnecessary anxiety or procedures over slow-growing ones. Generally, the timeline looks like this:

  • Age 50 for Average-Risk Men: If you have no major risk factors or family history, a great time to start having a conversation with your doctor about PSA screening is around age 50.
  • Age 40 to 45 for Higher-Risk Men: If you carry higher risk factors—such as a strong family history or if you are of African American descent—we generally recommend starting these conversations earlier, between ages 40 and 45.

Know Your Risk Factors

Your personal timeline for screening largely depends on your risk profile. You should talk to your doctor sooner if you fall into any of these categories:

  • Family History: If your father or brother was diagnosed with prostate cancer—especially at a younger age—your risk increases significantly.
  • Race and Ethnicity: Statistics show that African American men are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer, tend to develop it at an earlier age, and can experience more aggressive forms of the disease.
  • Genetics: Inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes (most commonly associated with breast and ovarian cancer), can also increase prostate cancer risk.

Why Screening Decisions Should Be Individualized

This is where having a trusted primary care provider matters most. Deciding whether to screen—and how often to screen—isn’t a math equation; it’s a personal choice.

Your doctor will look at your age, overall health, life expectancy, family history, and personal preferences. For instance, a healthy 55-year-old with a family history has a very different risk-benefit profile than an 75-year-old managing other complex health conditions. A great screening conversation weighs the benefits of early detection against what next steps would look like if something abnormal shows up.

Take Control of Your Health

The scariest part of health screenings is often just the unknown. But taking a proactive, preventative approach gives you control, peace of mind, and options.

If you’re approaching milestone screening ages, have a family history, or have noticed any changes in your urinary habits, don’t wait for a prompt.

Let’s talk about your health. Schedule an appointment with us at Flying Horse Medical Center today. We’re here to answer your questions, evaluate your individual risk, and help you map out a proactive plan for your long-term health.

 

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Awake Inverted Nipple Surgery: Restoring Shape and Confidence

Awake Inverted Nipple Surgery: Restoring Shape and Confidence

Some Moms struggle with inverted or “hidden” nipples, especially after breastfeeding. Awake Inverted Nipple Surgery gently corrects this with comfort and privacy.

It’s a topic that doesn’t get talked about nearly enough — and one that can quietly affect confidence, intimacy, and even breastfeeding for future pregnancies. The good news: it’s a straightforward, private, in-office fix.

What Is Awake Inverted Nipple Surgery?

Awake Inverted Nipple Surgery corrects nipples that retract inward instead of projecting outward, using local anesthesia only. There’s no general anesthesia, no operating room, and no hospital stay. The procedure releases the tight tissue or ducts pulling the nipple inward and allows it to maintain natural projection going forward.

Benefits

  • Office-based, local anesthesia only.
  • Minimal downtime, quick recovery.
  • Restores natural projection for both function and confidence.
  • Can be performed on one or both nipples, with grade of inversion assessed at consultation.

What to Expect

Consultation: Dr. Millicent Odunze Geers will evaluate the degree of inversion (grades range from mild to severe) and discuss whether preserving milk duct function is a priority for you.

The Procedure: Performed under local anesthesia in-office. Most patients describe mild pressure but no pain, and the entire procedure typically takes under an hour.

Recovery: Mild swelling or tenderness for a few days is normal. Most Moms return to normal activities within a day or two, avoiding direct pressure or friction on the area as it heals.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Good candidates are Moms bothered by nipple inversion — whether it’s always been present or developed after breastfeeding — who are in good general health. During your consultation, Dr. Geers will talk privately and directly about your specific concerns, including whether future breastfeeding is a consideration for you.

👉 Struggling with inverted nipples? Schedule a consultation and learn how Awake Inverted Nipple Surgery can restore shape, balance, and confidence — all without general anesthesia.

Call: 719-633-5255 Email: plasticsurgery@fhmedcenter.com Website: www.fhmedcenter.com/plasticsurgery

As always, from one Mom to another, carry on smartly 💙

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Digital Detox for Mental Wellness

Digital Detox for Mental Wellness

Screens are part of nearly every aspect of modern life. We use them to work, communicate, shop, stay informed, and relax. While technology offers plenty of benefits, being connected all day can also leave us feeling distracted, overstimulated, and mentally drained.

At Flying Horse Medical Center, we understand that mental wellness is closely connected to everyday habits, including how we use technology. A digital detox does not necessarily mean giving up technology altogether. Instead, it means creating more intentional boundaries around screen use so you have time to rest, focus, and reconnect with the world around you. Even small changes can support better mental wellness and make daily life feel more balanced.

How Excessive Screen Time Can Affect Mental Wellness

Spending too much time on digital devices can affect more than your schedule. Frequent notifications, social media updates, and an endless stream of information can make it difficult for the mind to slow down. Some people may notice increased stress, trouble concentrating, irritability, or a feeling that they are always “on.”

Screen use can also interfere with sleep, especially when devices are used late at night. The content itself may be stimulating, while the light from a screen can make it more difficult to transition into a restful bedtime routine.

Social media can add another layer of pressure. Comparing your daily life to carefully selected images and updates from others may contribute to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, or low mood. These experiences do not affect everyone in the same way, but they are useful reminders to pay attention to how technology makes you feel—not just how much time you spend using it.

Recognize Your Digital Habits

Before making changes, take a closer look at your current routine. Many people reach for their phones automatically throughout the day without realizing how often it happens. Checking a notification can quickly turn into scrolling through social media, reading the news, or watching videos.

Pay attention to when and why you use your devices. Are you reaching for your phone when you feel bored, stressed, or uncomfortable? Do you use screens during meals, while spending time with family, or immediately before bed? Are work messages following you into your personal time?

Identifying these patterns can help you make practical changes instead of trying to eliminate screen time all at once.

Set Realistic Screen-Time Boundaries

A successful digital detox should fit your life. For most people, completely disconnecting is not realistic—and it may not be necessary. Start with a few manageable boundaries, such as:

  • Turning off nonessential notifications
  • Keeping your phone away during meals
  • Creating screen-free times in the morning or evening
  • Avoiding work email outside designated hours
  • Charging your phone outside the bedroom
  • Using screen-time settings to monitor habits
  • Taking short breaks during the workday

You might also choose specific areas of your home as screen-free spaces. The dining room, bedroom, or family room can become places where people talk, read, rest, or spend time together without devices competing for attention.

Replace Screen Time With Restorative Activities

Reducing screen use is easier when you have something enjoyable to do instead. Consider replacing a few minutes of scrolling with an activity that supports relaxation or connection.

Reading a physical book, taking a walk, listening to music, stretching, gardening, cooking, or spending time outdoors can provide a welcome change of pace. Even a brief conversation with a friend or family member can feel more restorative than passively consuming content online.

Mindfulness practices may also help. A few minutes of deep breathing, meditation, or quiet reflection can create space between stressful moments and your response to them. The goal is not to create another task to complete perfectly, but to give your attention a chance to settle.

Protect Your Sleep

One of the most useful digital detox habits is establishing a healthier nighttime routine. Try putting devices away at least 30 to 60 minutes before bed. Use that time to take a shower, prepare for the next day, read, or practice relaxation techniques.

If you use your phone as an alarm, place it across the room rather than next to your bed. This can reduce the temptation to check messages or social media during the night and may make it easier to get up in the morning.

A consistent sleep schedule, a comfortable sleep environment, and reduced evening screen use can all support better rest.

Find a Balance That Works for You

A digital detox is not about guilt or perfection. Technology is a valuable part of work, education, communication, and entertainment. The goal is to use it in a way that supports your life rather than allowing it to take over every quiet moment.

If you are experiencing ongoing anxiety, low mood, sleep problems, difficulty concentrating, or other concerns that affect your daily life, consider speaking with a qualified healthcare professional. Personalized support can help you understand what may be contributing to these symptoms and identify healthy strategies for moving forward.

At Flying Horse Medical Center, our team is here to support your overall health and well-being. Contact Flying Horse Medical Center to schedule a consultation and discuss your mental wellness concerns with a trusted healthcare provider.

 

 

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Awake Eyelid Surgery: Upper and Lower Options for Moms

Awake Eyelid Surgery: Upper and Lower Options for Moms

Motherhood often comes with sleepless nights, but that doesn’t mean you should look tired forever. Awake Eyelid Surgery (upper and lower) helps restore a refreshed, youthful appearance.

Whether it’s heavy, hooded lids that make you look perpetually exhausted or under-eye bags that no concealer can hide, eyelid surgery targets the exact areas that give away fatigue — even on days you actually feel rested.

What Is Awake Eyelid Surgery?

Awake Eyelid Surgery, or Blepharoplasty, is performed using local anesthesia with or without light sedation rather than general anesthesia. You stay comfortable throughout, skip the grogginess and nausea that often follow going under completely, and walk out the same day. It can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids, or both, depending on your goals.

Upper Eyelid Surgery

  • Lifts drooping lids that make you look tired or older.
  • Can improve peripheral vision if excess skin has begun to droop over the lash line.
  • Quick, office-based procedure with minimal downtime. 

Lower Eyelid Surgery

  • Reduces bags, puffiness, and dark circles.
  • Smooths the transition between the lower lid and cheek for a more rested look.
  • Awake = less risk, faster recovery, and no hospital stay. 

What to Expect

Consultation: Dr. Millicent Geers will evaluate your upper and lower lids, skin elasticity, and goals to determine whether upper, lower, or combined surgery makes the most sense for you.

The Procedure: Performed comfortably under local anesthesia with oral sedation in an outpatient setting. You’re awake and alert enough to head home shortly after.

Recovery: Mild swelling and bruising are normal for the first one to two weeks. Most Moms feel comfortable in social settings again within seven to ten days, with results continuing to refine over the following weeks.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Good candidates typically have good overall health, realistic expectations, and either upper lid hooding, lower lid bags, or both. During your consultation, Dr. Geers will talk honestly about whether your concerns are best addressed with eyelid surgery alone or in combination with another procedure. For Moms wanting more comprehensive rejuvenation, Awake Facelift and Neck Lift are excellent companion procedures. 👉 Tired of looking tired? Book a consultation today and discover how Awake Eyelid Surgery can refresh your upper and lower lids for a brighter, more youthful look.

Call: 719-633-5255
Email: plasticsurgery@fhmedcenter.com

As always, from one Mom to another, carry on smartly 💙

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Letter to Families and New Pediatric Patients

Letter to Families and New Pediatric Patients

Dear Families,

We hope this letter finds you and your family well.

With the recent closure of ABC Pediatrics, we understand that many families have been left searching for a new pediatric home. We are pleased to share that Dr. Nipa Yochim and Dr. Rebecca Harlow will be joining the Flying Horse Medical Center team to establish our new pediatric department, allowing them to continue providing the compassionate, personalized care your children know and trust. 

We know transitions like these can be stressful and our goal is to make the process as smooth and seamless as possible for your family. At Flying Horse Medical Center, we are committed to a patient-centered approach that prioritizes meaningful relationships, accessibility, and quality care. Unlike the limitations often experienced in larger healthcare systems, our model allows providers more time with patients and families, creating a healthcare experience that is thoughtful, comprehensive, and personal.

We anticipate being credentialed with most commercial insurance plans by early September 2026. While that process is underway, we are pleased to offer temporary cash-pay services for continued care for your children beginning July 6, 2026:

  • Well-Child Visits – $100
    • Sports Physicals – $50
    • Acute/Sick Visits – $50 (additional testing fees may apply)
    • Medication Renewals – $50
    • New Patient Visits – $150

Unfortunately, we are unable to accept Medicaid or Medicaid-managed plans at this time.

Our New Office

Flying Horse Medical Center – Northgate
1615 Silversmith Road
Colorado Springs, CO 80921

719-633-5255 (Option 2, then Option 1)

Families may begin calling now to schedule appointments. Our team will gladly assist with transferring your child’s medical records. A Release of Records form is available on the Pediatrics tab and may be emailed to wellness@FHMedCenter.com.

We have sincerely missed caring for our patients and are incredibly grateful for the trust you place in us. It has been our privilege to be part of your children’s healthcare journey, and we look forward to continuing to serve your family in this next chapter.

With gratitude,

Dr. Nipa Yochim
Dr. Rebecca Harlow
Flying Horse Medical Cen

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Benefits of Concierge Medicine for Children

Benefits of Concierge Medicine for Children

When it comes to your child’s health, convenience, access, and personalized care can make a big difference. At Flying Horse Medical Center, families are often looking for a healthcare experience that feels less rushed and more responsive to their child’s needs. That’s where concierge medicine can offer real value.

Concierge medicine is designed to provide patients with more direct access to their physician, more time during appointments, and a more personalized approach to care. For children, this can be especially helpful. From routine checkups to unexpected illnesses, kids don’t always fit neatly into a standard schedule — and parents often need answers quickly. Concierge medicine can help make pediatric care feel more accessible, more thorough, and more family centered.

In this article, we’ll explore what concierge medicine is, how it can benefit children, and why it may be a helpful option for families seeking a more individualized healthcare experience.

What Is Concierge Medicine?

Concierge medicine is a model of care in which families pay a membership fee or retainer for enhanced access to a physician. In return, they often receive benefits such as:

  • Longer appointment times
  • Same-day or next-day visits
  • Direct communication with the doctor
  • More proactive and personalized care
  • Less waiting and fewer barriers to scheduling

While concierge medicine is sometimes associated with adult care, it can also be an excellent fit for children, especially those who benefit from closer monitoring, more frequent visits, or a stronger relationship with their healthcare provider.

1. More Personalized Attention

One of the biggest benefits of concierge medicine for children is the opportunity for more personalized care. In a traditional setting, appointments may be short and focused only on immediate concerns. Concierge medicine allows physicians to spend more time getting to know the child, the family, and the child’s medical history.

This can lead to:

  • More thoughtful conversations
  • Better understanding of developmental milestones
  • More detailed preventive care
  • Care plans that are tailored to the child’s needs

When a doctor has more time to listen, they can often identify concerns earlier and offer more specific guidance. That kind of attention can be especially valuable in pediatrics, where every child develops at their own pace.

2. Easier Access When Your Child Is Sick

Parents know that illnesses and minor injuries rarely happen at convenient times. One of the major advantages of concierge medicine is improved access to the physician when your child needs care most.

Instead of waiting several days for an appointment or spending hours in urgent care for a non-emergency issue, families may be able to reach their doctor more quickly. This can help with:

  • Fevers
  • Ear infections
  • Stomach bugs
  • Rashes
  • Respiratory symptoms
  • Medication questions

For parents, having a trusted doctor who is easier to contact can bring peace of mind. For kids, it can mean faster answers and a calmer experience overall.

3. Stronger Doctor-Patient Relationships

Children often feel more comfortable with healthcare providers they know well. Concierge medicine encourages continuity of care, which can help build trust over time.

That relationship matters because a child who feels comfortable with their doctor may be more willing to:

  • Share symptoms honestly
  • Cooperate during exams
  • Feel less anxious during visits
  • Develop healthy habits with guidance

A strong doctor-patient relationship also helps parents. When you know your child’s physician understands your family and your concerns, conversations about health decisions can feel easier and more collaborative.

4. Better Preventive Care

Preventive care is a major part of keeping children healthy, and concierge medicine can support a more proactive approach. Because appointments are often longer and more flexible, physicians can spend extra time discussing topics like:

  • Nutrition
  • Sleep
  • Immunizations
  • Growth and development
  • Behavior concerns
  • Allergies
  • School and activity-related health issues

This type of care is not just about treating illness — it’s about helping children stay healthy before problems develop. That proactive focus can be especially helpful as kids grow and their needs change.

5. Less Stress for Busy Families

Family life can be hectic. Between school, sports, work, and everything else on the calendar, getting medical care for a child can feel like one more thing to juggle. Concierge medicine can reduce some of that stress by making care more convenient.

Families may appreciate:

  • Flexible scheduling
  • More direct communication
  • Fewer long waits
  • Easier follow-up
  • A more streamlined experience overall

When healthcare fits more naturally into daily life, parents are often more likely to keep up with appointments and address concerns early. That can make a big difference in a child’s overall well-being.

6. More Support for Ongoing Health Concerns

Some children need a little more medical attention than others. Kids with chronic conditions, recurring illnesses, allergies, asthma, or developmental concerns may benefit from the more attentive model that concierge medicine provides.

Because the physician has more time and access, they can help monitor symptoms, adjust care plans, and respond more quickly when something changes. This can be reassuring for parents who need a consistent partner in managing their child’s health.

Is Concierge Medicine Right for Every Family?

Concierge medicine can offer meaningful benefits, but it may not be the best fit for every household. Families may want to consider factors such as:

  • Membership costs
  • The level of access included
  • Whether the service matches their child’s healthcare needs
  • How often they expect to use the pediatrician’s services

For some families, the added convenience and personalized care are well worth it. For others, a traditional model may still be the right choice. The key is finding a healthcare approach that supports your child and fits your family’s priorities.

Why Families Choose Flying Horse Medical Center

At Flying Horse Medical Center, the goal is to provide thoughtful, patient-centered care that supports children and their families. Concierge medicine can be a valuable option for parents who want a more personalized and accessible healthcare experience for their child.

Whether your child needs preventive care, ongoing support, or a trusted physician who is easier to reach, concierge medicine may offer the level of service many families are looking for.

Final Thoughts

The benefits of concierge medicine for children go beyond convenience. More personalized attention, better access, stronger relationships, and a proactive approach to care can all help support a child’s health and a family’s peace of mind.

For parents seeking a more responsive and individualized healthcare experience, concierge medicine may be a smart option worth exploring.

If you’re interested in learning more about pediatric concierge medicine, contact Flying Horse Medical Center today to schedule a consultation.

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Awake Neck Lift: Refining the Mom Profile Safely

Awake Neck Lift: Refining the Mom Profile Safely

A defined jawline can transform your appearance. Moms often notice fullness or sagging as the years go by, especially through hormonal changes or shifts in weight. An Awake Neck Lift refines your profile safely and comfortably.

Between work, family, and everything else on your plate, most Moms don’t have the bandwidth for a long, groggy recovery. That’s exactly why this procedure exists — it’s built for real life, not just the operating room.

What Is an Awake Neck Lift?

An Awake Neck Lift is performed using local anesthesia with light oral sedation instead of general anesthesia. You stay comfortable and relaxed throughout, but you skip the grogginess, nausea, and extended downtime that often come with going under completely. The procedure tightens loose or lax neck skin and muscle, sharpening the jawline and removing that “double chin” fullness that so many Moms feel self-conscious about.

Why Moms Are Choosing This Procedure

Time, hormonal shifts, and the natural pull of gravity can all soften the neck and jawline — even in Moms who are otherwise fit and healthy. It’s not about vanity. It’s about looking in the mirror and recognizing yourself again.

Benefits

  • Eliminates fullness or “double chin.”
  • Tightens loose neck skin for a sharper, more defined profile.
  • Awake = no general anesthesia, no hospital stay, and a faster return to your normal routine.
  • Lower risk profile compared to procedures requiring general anesthesia.
  • Most patients are up, moving, and back to light activities within days — not weeks.

What to Expect

Consultation: Dr. Millicent Geers will evaluate your neck and jawline, skin quality, and goals to determine if you’re a good candidate.

The Procedure: Performed comfortably under local anesthesia with sedation in an outpatient setting. No breathing tube, no waking up in a recovery bay disoriented — you’re alert enough to go home the same day.

Recovery: Swelling and mild bruising are normal for the first week or two. Most Moms feel comfortable returning to non-strenuous activities within a few days, with more noticeable results emerging over the following weeks as swelling resolves.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Good candidates typically have mild to moderate neck laxity or fullness, are in good overall health, and are looking for a natural-looking refinement rather than a dramatic overhaul. During your consultation, Dr. Geers will talk honestly about whether this is the right fit for your anatomy and your goals — no pressure, no upselling.

Insider Info

If your concerns extend beyond the neck into the midface or jawline, ask about combining procedures during your consultation.

👉 Wishing for a smoother neckline? Book a consultation today and learn how an Awake Neck Lift can refine your profile safely and effectively — no general anesthesia required.

Call: 719-633-5255

Email: plasticsurgery@fhmedcenter.com

As always, from one Mom to another, carry on smartly 💙

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5 Health Habits For Men That Can Add Years to Your Life

5 Health Habits For Men That Can Add Years to Your Life

Men’s health often gets pushed to the back burner until a problem becomes hard to ignore. But the truth is, many of the biggest health risks men face can be reduced through simple, consistent habits. At Flying Horse Medical Center, we encourage men to take a proactive approach to their health by building routines that support energy, longevity, and quality of life.

The good news? Living longer and feeling better does not require a complicated overhaul. Small, sustainable changes can make a major difference over time. From eating well to staying active and getting regular checkups, the habits you practice today can help protect your health for years to come.

Below are five important health habits for men that may help add years to your life and improve the way you feel every day.

5 Health Habits

1. Stay Active Consistently

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve long-term health. Exercise supports heart health, helps manage weight, improves circulation, strengthens muscles and bones, and can even boost mood and mental clarity.

For men, staying active is especially important because exercise can lower the risk of conditions such as:

  • Heart disease
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Stroke
  • Obesity

You do not need to spend hours in the gym to see benefits. Even moderate movement, such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or strength training a few days a week, can help. The key is consistency. Making exercise part of your routine is one of the best investments you can make in your future health.

2. Prioritize a Balanced Diet

What you eat has a direct impact on how your body functions. A balanced diet helps support healthy cholesterol levels, stable blood sugar, better energy, and healthier body weight. It may also reduce the risk of chronic diseases that can shorten lifespan.

A healthy eating pattern for men should include:

  • Lean proteins
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains
  • Healthy fats
  • Plenty of water

It also helps to limit highly processed foods, sugary drinks, excessive sodium, and foods high in saturated fat. While it is fine to enjoy treats in moderation, a diet built around nutritious whole foods supports better overall wellness.

Men who eat well often notice more stable energy throughout the day, improved digestion, and better physical performance. Over time, these benefits can contribute to a longer, healthier life.

3. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is one of the most overlooked parts of men’s health. Many men sacrifice sleep for work, family responsibilities, or late nights, but long-term sleep deprivation can take a serious toll on the body.

Poor sleep has been linked to:

  • Increased risk of heart disease
  • Weight gain
  • Low energy
  • Mood changes
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Weakened immune function

Adults should aim for around seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night. Good sleep habits include keeping a regular bedtime, limiting screen time before bed, avoiding heavy meals too late, and creating a quiet, comfortable sleep environment.

If you snore loudly, wake up tired, or feel sleepy during the day, it may be worth discussing possible sleep issues with a medical provider. Sleep apnea and other sleep disorders are common and can significantly affect health if left untreated.

4. Keep Up With Preventive Care

One of the smartest health habits men can develop is staying on top of preventive care. Many serious conditions can be caught early through regular checkups and screenings, often before symptoms become severe.

Preventive care may include:

  • Annual wellness visits
  • Blood pressure checks
  • Cholesterol screening
  • Diabetes screening
  • Cancer screenings based on age and risk
  • Mental health discussions
  • Vaccines and routine immunizations

Men often delay care because they feel fine or do not want to take time off. But preventive visits can reveal important warning signs early, when treatment is often more effective. Regular medical care is not just about treating illness — it is about staying ahead of it.

5. Manage Stress in Healthy Ways

Chronic stress affects more than just your mood. Over time, it can contribute to high blood pressure, poor sleep, unhealthy eating habits, tension, and increased risk of heart problems. Learning how to manage stress is an essential part of long-term health.

Healthy stress management strategies may include:

  • Exercise
  • Deep breathing
  • Spending time outdoors
  • Connecting with friends and family
  • Hobbies or creative outlets
  • Therapy or counseling when needed

Men sometimes feel pressure to “tough it out,” but ignoring stress rarely makes it better. Healthy coping skills can protect both physical and mental well-being.

Why These Habits Matter

The best part about these health habits is that they work together. When you exercise more, you may sleep better. When you sleep better, you may have more energy to eat well and stay active. When you manage stress, your body may function more efficiently overall. Each habit supports the others, creating a strong foundation for long-term health.

Adding years to your life is important, but so is adding life to your years. The goal is not just to live longer — it is to feel better, stay active, and enjoy more of what matters most.

Take the First Step Toward Better Health

If you have not had a checkup in a while, now is a great time to reconnect with your health. The earlier you identify risk factors, the easier it may be to make changes that support a longer, healthier life.

Contact Flying Horse Medical Center today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward better health, better habits, and a longer life.

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When Is the Right Time for a Mommy Makeover?

When Is the Right Time for a Mommy Makeover?

When Is the Right Time for a Mommy Makeover? If you’ve been thinking about a Mommy Makeover, you’ve probably asked yourself:
“Is now the right time?”

For many Moms in Colorado Springs, this question comes with hesitation, guilt, and uncertainty.

Let’s simplify it.

What Is a Mommy Makeover?

A Mommy Makeover typically combines procedures like:

  • Tummy tuck
  • Liposuction
  • Breast lift and/or augmentation

The goal is to address common post-pregnancy changes in a single, comprehensive plan.

The 4 Signs You’re Ready

  1. You’re Done Having Children

Future pregnancies can reverse results—so timing matters.

  1. Your Weight Is Stable

Your body should be at a weight you can realistically maintain.

  1. You Can Take Time to Recover

Recovery is an investment. Having support at home is key—especially with younger kids.

  1. You Have Areas That Don’t Respond To Exercise

You’re doing the right things—eating well, staying active—but certain areas just aren’t changing. This is often where surgery can help refine what effort alone cannot.

  1. You’re Doing This for YOU

Not for anyone else. Not out of pressure.
But because you want to feel more confident in your own skin.

When You Should Wait

You may want to delay surgery if:

  • You’re planning another pregnancy
  • Your weight is fluctuating
  • You don’t have adequate help at home

Waiting often leads to better, longer-lasting results.

The Emotional Side No One Talks About

Many Moms feel guilty even considering surgery.

But wanting to feel comfortable in your body isn’t selfish—it’s personal.

And taking care of yourself is not something you need to earn.

Why Timing Impacts Your Results

The right timing helps:

  • Optimize healing
  • Improve results longevity
  • Reduce the need for revision procedures

This isn’t about rushing—it’s about planning.

Final Thoughts: There’s No Perfect Time—Only the Right Time for You

The “right time” isn’t a date on a calendar.

It’s when your body, your life, and your goals are aligned.

If you’re in Colorado Springs, Monument, Colorado, or Castle Rock, Colorado and wondering if now is the right time, a consultation can help you plan safely and confidently.