In pursuit of wellness answers, searching the web may lead you astray. But we have complimentary healthcare secrets and tips straight from Atlanta’s leading professionals.
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Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery
DR. CELESTE NAGY PHOTO BY CRISTYN CAMERA
What should we be incorporating into our skincare routine today?
Though everyone’s skin has different needs, using an antioxidant serum that contains vitamin C — also known as ascorbic acid or L-ascorbic acid — is beneficial for all skin types. Vitamin C protects the skin from sun damage, has anti-aging effects, reduces hyperpigmentation, decreases redness, and improves under-eye circles.
Most common concern or issue you see being a facial plastic surgeon?
The most common concern I see as a facial plastic surgeon is skin laxity, especially along the jawline and neck. Laxity develops as we age and we lose collagen and elastin in the skin. Therefore, prevention with SPF and antioxidants is key. We also have a range of treatments that we offer, both non-surgical and surgical to address this issue and build collagen.
Is preventive botox beneficial? If so, when would you recommend patients begin?
Absolutely! Botox works by weakening the muscle and therefore you cannot make lines on the forehead, between eyebrows, or around the eyes with movement creating that smooth skin appearance. The treatment lasts about 3 months. Therefore, starting Botox and doing the treatment regularly prevents the appearance of wrinkles both at rest and in motion. In general, I see patients start preventative Botox in their mid-20s. That’s when I personally started using Botox myself.
One procedure you think every woman or man should try out?
Botox! Microneedling is also a procedure that is beneficial for men and women of any skin color or type. It’s a procedure that helps with skin texture and fine lines by building collagen in the skin and doing gentle resurfacing.
Are there simple changes we can make to increase the consistency of quality skin days?
Develop a skincare routine that you can realistically follow in the morning and evening. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but consistency is key!
Is there a way to prevent facial asymmetry?
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent facial asymmetry as it is natural for every person to have some asymmetry. However, sometimes asymmetry can be improved with injectables such as Botox and dermal fillers.
DR. CELESTE NAGY PHOTO BY CRISTYN CAMERA
• My basic routine is a facial cleanser with glycolic acid, serum with peptides and hyaluronic acid, vitamin C serum, moisturizer, and SPF. I will add toner and retinol in the evenings.
• My go-to products are ImageMD restorative cleanser or Jan Marini bioglycolic cleanser, NeoCutis bio serum, ImageMD, Jan Marini, or Obagi Vitamin C serum 15%, ImageMD Max Crème, and SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.05%. I also do occasional chemical peels and use hydroquinone 4% to treat hyperpigmentation.
Piedmont Women’s Healthcare
DR. ZURI BRYANT PHOTO BY HERE FOR GOOD FILMS
Healthcare tip you wish you would have known sooner?
I wish I’d known sooner how important it is to rest. I know we hear that all the time, but it took my body literally starting to break down for me to listen. My job is exceedingly taxing, and with a family waiting for me at home, I leave one job guilt-plagued and try to make up for missed time with my family. It becomes very easy to neglect yourself. Resting, mindfulness, and just recharging yourself is invaluable.
Most common myth/concern you hear in your practice?
By far, one of the most common concerns that my patients express to me is their fear that contraception (or birth control) will cause infertility. This, thankfully, is far from the truth.
Simple changes we can make to improve our reproductive health?
First and foremost - stop smoking. In addition to that: reduced stress, healthy water intake, exercise, healthy diet, and restricting caffeine to 100-200mg per day, and routine health maintenance.
How often should young women be visiting their OB?
Pregnant patients will see their OB on a timeline, which may change based on acuity. Mostly, once a month in the first and second trimesters, and more frequently in the third trimester. Nonpregnant people should be seen by their gynecologist annually for a wellness visit.
Best part about being in this specific practice?
The best part about this practice is our wonderful patients. I love being here to see them through such monumental moments in their lives.
SUPPLEMENTS AND TOOLS THAT HELP DR. BRYANT FEEL GREAT INSIDE
• Vitamin D. Almost everyone is deficient in Vitamin D.
• I love wearing a cooling eyemask after long nights on call for labor and delivery.
• Honestly, my Mirena IUD was transformative - helped me to manage my cramps and bleeding around my menses seamlessly.
Resurgens Orthopaedics
DR. LATTISHA BILBREW PHOTO BY KEITH SAUNDERS PHOTOGRAPHY
Healthcare tip that you wish you would have known sooner?
Getting adequate and restful sleep is crucial for overall health and wellbeing, as it plays a key role in many important bodily functions, including immune function, cognitive function, and physical recovery. Lack of sleep has been linked to a wide range of negative health outcomes, including increased risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, as well as impaired mental health and reduced quality of life. Rest is essential for allowing the body to recover and repair after exercise. During exercise, the body experiences micro-tears in the muscles, and rest allows the body to repair and strengthen these muscles, which can lead to improved performance and decreased risk of injury. There is also a mental health component, as rest is essential in helping to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Regular rest can also help improve sleep quality, which is essential for overall health and well-being.
Best preventative care tip to maintain strength and avoid injury?
One of the best preventative care tips to maintain strength and avoid injury is to consistently engage in physical activity that strengthens your muscles and improves your flexibility and Balance. Strength training exercises, such as weight lifting or bodyweight exercises, can help build and maintain muscle mass, which is important for supporting your joints and reducing the risk of Injury. In addition to strength training, incorporating stretching and flexibility exercises, such as yoga or pilates, can help improve your range of motion and reduce stiff ness and soreness. Balance exercises, such as standing on one leg or using a balance board, can also help prevent falls and injuries. It’s also important to make sure you’re giving your body adequate rest and recovery time, as overtraining can increase the risk of injury. Eating a nutritious diet and getting enough sleep can also support your overall health and help prevent injury.
How important is diet in regard to body function and recovery?
Diet plays a crucial role in body function and recovery. What we eat provides the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that our body needs to function properly and to repair and rebuild tissues that have been damaged due to physical activity or injury. Protein, for example, is an essential nutrient that is required for muscle repair and growth. Carbohydrates provide the body with energy, which is important for physical activity and recovery. Healthy fats are important for maintaining proper hormone levels and supporting the immune system. Inadequate or unbalanced nutrient intake can lead to deficiencies, which can impact the body’s ability to function properly and recover from physical stress.
TOOLS AND PRODUCTS DR. BILBREW USES TO INCREASE VITALITY AND BODY OPTIMIZATION
• Foam roller: A foam roller is a great tool for self-massage and myofascial release, which can help improve muscle flexibility, reduce muscle soreness, and increase blood flow.
• Resistance bands: Resistance bands are a portable and versatile tool that can be used for strength training exercises, stretching and mobility exercises.
• Yoga mat: A yoga mat can provide a cushioned surface for yoga, Pilates, or bodyweight exercises, and can help improve balance and stability.
• Fitness tracker: A fitness tracker can help monitor physical activity levels, heart rate, and sleep quality, which can provide valuable insights into overall health and fitness.
• Blender: A blender can be used to make nutrient-rich smoothies and shakes, which can be a convenient way to increase intake of fruits, vegetables, and protein.
• Meditation app: A meditation app can be a helpful tool for reducing stress, improving mental focus, and promoting overall well-being.
Photography by: Svetikd/istock
Cristyn Camera
Here For Good Films
Keith Saunders Photography
