Austin MD May/June 2016 by Austin MD Magazine

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 6

SPECIAL SECTION AUSTIN’S TOP PROFESSIONALS ARE KEEPING AUSTIN WELL

THIS SINGLE SPORT CAN HELP YOU SUCCEED IN BUSINESS

 WHAT YOU NEED TO

KNOW TO ACHIEVE OPTIMAL HEALTH AT EACH STAGE OF LIFE

Alternative birthing options WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU STELLAR NEW RESTAURANT HITS DOWNTOWN AUSTIN

AUSTIN’S BEST WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS

KEY THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING A HOME

WOMEN’S HEALTH ISSUE A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

CONTENTS M AY /JU N E 2 016

AUSTIN M DM AGAZINE M AY/ J UN E 2016

PUBLISHER

Angela Strickland EDITOR

Nicole Carbon ART DIRECTOR

Elisa Giordano

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Davina Bruno

WEB DESIGNER

Brandon Tipton

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Steve Dement Molly Winters

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Jake Harding Malena Manning Samantha Schak

Melody Afkami John Branham Davina Bruno Nicole Carbon Kristian Delgado Omar Dyess Kyle Jerome Jesus Kain Brad Kennington Shirat Ling Renee Hanson Malone Becky Morales Bob Pena Susan Pike Alina Sholar

Women Partners in Health has been serving Austin women for 25 years throughout the stages of life

32 Managing anger and what this not so negative emotion means 36 How golf can benefit women in both business and in health 48 Prevention and treatment to fight the inevitable signs of aging in women

DEPARTMENTS 06 08 12 26 32 36 38 40 46 52

EVENTS LOCAL LIFESTYLE HEALTH WOMEN’S HEALTH WOMEN’S HEALTH & FITNESS SPORTS PROFILE KEEP AUSTIN WELL HEALTH & BEAUTY DINING

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Cover photo: Wavebreak Media Ltd/bigstock.com

www.AustinMDmagazine.com

For adver tising and/or editorial information, please call Angela Strickland at 512-506-1248 or email angela@AustinMDmagazine com.

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

SUMMER IS ALMOST HERE, EVEN THOUGH IT MAY FEEL LIKE IT ALREADY IS, AND WE, AT AUSTIN MD, WANT TO OFFER YOU SOME COOL READING. This is our Women’s Health issue to coincide with Women’s Health Week and we want our Austin ladies to do something good for themselves by putting their health and fitness first. One way to do that would be at Austin MD’s Third Annual Keep Austin Well citywide health fair. This free event is our way of giving back to the city we love by giving you an opportunity to take a free class (yoga, Zumba, and more) and meet some of the great healthcare providers in our community. Remember, as the kids are out for summer, to plan lots of

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activities to get them moving. It’s never too soon to get some fun and healthy habits in place. As always, thank you for reading, we hope you enjoy this issue and here’s to Keeping Austin Well!

PUBLISHER /CEO

Raising the Standard of Spine Care in Austin Austin NeuroSpine is at the forefront of minimally invasive, innovative techniques used to correct and repair spinal disorders.

To learn more about Dr. Vasudevan who brings a combination of surgical skills and a top academic background to every patient he sees visit,

www.austinneurospine.com 512.640.0010 5300 BEE CAVE ROAD | BUILDING 1, SUITE 220 | AUSTIN, TEXAS 78746 A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

EVENTS

SPAWGLASS SPORTING CLAYS SHOOT

For the second consecutive year, SpawGlass hosted a sporting clays shoot benefiting Any Baby Can. Participants spent the day in competitive team shoots, observed a demonstration by the University of Texas Trap and Skeet Team, and winners were presented with awards. This year’s event, held on Thursday, April 14, at Capitol City Trap and Skeet Club, raised more than $30,000 for Any Baby Can programs and services.

CANDLELIGHTERS TENNIS TOURNAMENT

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANY BABY CAN

On Friday, April 8, supporters of Any Baby Can rallied at the Courtyard Tennis Club in Austin at the 20th Annual Candlelighters Tennis Tournament. Kathy Bailey, the event organizer, continues the legacy of her late husband Jeff, an avid tennis player who lost his life to cancer, by raising awareness and funds for Any Baby Can’s Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Program. This year’s tournament raised more than $15,000 for Any Baby Can.

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Local Lifestyle

HOW “FIT”

IS YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS? Dyezz Surveillance asks the right question to keep you protected

BY BOB PENA

CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS: • Do you have an unfettered view of the surroundings of your home, business or office; from the doors, windows, garage, back or front yard/ area? • Do you pick up your mail, newspapers, magazines, etc., frequently to give the impression that someone’s home? • Do you have sufficient outdoor lighting and is it working? • Do you store your valuables in a safety deposit box or safe, is it fireproof? • Do signs, bushes, tools, etc., present an obstacle to your being able to clearly see outside, especially if you’re leaving your home or business? Remember, thieves are like sharks, they never stop, they’ll always look for a vulnerability. Here are some security tips that may make your property, home, or business more fit: • If you plan on going on vacation, a business trip, seminar, etc., make sure your home/property looks lived-in – leave some lights on, the TV or radio perhaps, etc. • When you leave a message on your home/business message center, don’t say that you’re on vacation, on business, or are not home. Just ask

that they leave a message and you’ll respond as soon as possible. • If you have a two-story office, home, or building, don’t leave any second story windows or openings unlocked. • Go online and print a Home Security Assessment/Inspection checklist. Use it and include family members or employees while completing it. • When you move into a new home, office, or building, change or re-key the current locks. Business and residential surveillance and security systems offer a physical and visual level of security and deterrence. Will this always deter a burglar from breaking into your home or business? Will it prevent a forced entry? There’s no sure guarantee – ABC News recently showed a video of two men ransacking a home while the owner was at work. The owner had previously had a security and surveillance system installed in the house. He was instantaneously alerted about the break-in, he had received the alert on his iPhone and actually watched as the burglary was happening. He called the local police department immediately, and the surveillance and security system also alerted the response. The criminals were apprehended before they had a chance to escape! Make your home, office, or building as fit as they can be by contacting Dyezz Surveillance and Security and requesting that it’s experienced staff perform a “security fitness” assessment, and recommend appropriate “security fitness equipment.”

For more information visit, www.dyezz.com

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e usually tend to think of a break-in or burglary in physical terms – a forced entry into an apartment, home, or business, broken or stolen personal articles, an actual confrontation with the thief, etc. Not only is this a brazen physical act, it’s also quite likely that the home or business owner could experience long-lasting episodes of fear, grief, anger, etc., effecting their thought process, actions, and reactions in negative and harmful ways – in ways that could ultimately result in a continuing sense of dread and apprehension. We all know that in order to more effectively estimate our current physical fitness capability and levels, we need to consider our age, weight, height, current level and amount of exercise, etc. Sometimes we may hedge a little, or perhaps don’t “pinch” enough, etc. Some of us actually schedule an appointment with a physician or physical fitness expert so that we can get a realistic evaluation of our current physical fitness level. That is obviously the most sensible action to take. Well, now that I have your attention, what is your current “emotional and physical fitness level” as it applies to your home, your business, your property, and their current state of “fitness” condition?

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Local Lifestyle

FIVE STEPS TO ACHIEVING THE DREAM OF HOMEOWNERSHIP Omar Dyess cues us in on what to know before you buy

BY OMAR DYESS

he homebuyer tax credit encouraged many first-time buyers to get off the fence and into new homes. “While it is still uncertain how the market will adjust to the expiration of the tax credit, additional tax incentives, low interest rates, and affordability have made it easier for buyers to achieve the dream of homeownership,” says Omar Dyess of the RE/MAX 1. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, 93 percent of first-time buyers started their home search online last year. With so many options and resources available to consumers online, sometimes it’s difficult to navigate the inventory available. Whether you are just starting your home search or ready to make a purchase, there are a number of factors to keep in mind as you look for a new home. Dyess suggests just a few:

ATTEND A HOMEBUYER SEMINAR. Homebuyer seminars allow buyers to learn the ins and outs of the home-buying process. From financing issues to the benefits of working with a buyer’s agent, homebuyer seminars are a useful way to gain confidence in the home-buying process. CREATE A WISH LIST. From basic home features to school districts and neighborhoods, choosing the right home can be overwhelming. Prioritize the features and preferences that are most important to you as a buyer

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and narrow your options before you start looking at properties. ASK FOR HELP. A home is one of the largest purchases a consumer will make in his or her lifetime. Working with a real estate professional that knows the local market and specializes in buyer representation – like an agent who has earned the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation – can relieve some of the stress associated with this process. Omar Dyess is one of more than 40,000 members of the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent

Council (REBAC) of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, who have attained the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation. As the world's largest association of real estate professionals focusing specifically on representing the real estate buyer, REBAC is "The Voice for Buyer Representation," with more than 40,000 active real estate professional members of the organization throughout the world. For more information, visit www.DyessResidential.com

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LEARN YOUR LOCAL MARKET. The current market has made more options available to first-time buyers. While online listings can provide an indication of the properties available in your area, a buyer’s agent has access to additional properties and information about alternative buying options such as short sales and foreclosures. PREPARE FINANCIALLY. Getting your finances in order prior to looking for a new home can not only help you narrow your options, but it can make the entire transaction run more smoothly when it’s time to buy. Use online mortgage calculators to see how much house you can afford, or get pre-approved to avoid any delays in financing.

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HEALTH

POISED FOR EXPANSION

Austin Child Guidance Center celebrates 65 years of keeping Austin’s children emotionally well BY RENEE HANSON MALONE, MA

his year is a very special year for the Austin Child Guidance Center (ACGC), as the agency celebrates 65 years of service to the Austin community. For decades, the Center has been recognized as the pioneer in children’s mental health. So many lives have been changed because of the Center’s accessible counseling and psychological services. A child’s mental health is directly connected to their overall health, academic achievement, and life outcomes. ACGC’s mission is to improve the mental health of children and their families through early intervention, diagnosis, and treatment to help them develop the emotional skills for meeting life’s challenges. ACGC is responsible for many “firsts,” including bringing the first child psychiatrist to Austin; establishing a day school for children too emotionally disturbed to be in a regular school setting; establishing the first sexual abuse treatment program in Travis County (third in the nation); establishing the first infant and early childhood mental health project offering consultation and intervention services onsite at childcare centers; and establishing the first Trauma-Informed Care Consortium, bringing together over 60 local providers to improve knowledge on identifying and treating trauma and creating a better local referral system to serve trauma survivors. The Center has such a rich and profound history of creating real change in our community, as children and families gain tools to become more mentally and emotionally fit. Each year, the agency serves over 3,000 children and family members, and no one is turned away for the inability to pay. The number of individuals impacted by the Center’s services grows each year. Since 1951, ACGC has served over 140,000 children and family members. One can only imagine what our community might look like if the Center had not been available to treat those children and families through the years. Many clients receiving care are struggling with the following issues: grief; trauma; bullying; abuse; divorce; neglect; anxiety; and depression. Every child/family has a time or two in their life where they might benefit from counseling services. It is critical that our community continue to destigmatize accessing mental healthcare. It is important that families believe when they reach out for help they are being a proactive parent who truly understands the value of mental health. ACGC envisions the practice of treating a child’s mental health with the same importance as primary healthcare.

However, still so many families are either underinsured or uninsured and have significant barriers to accessing care. For that reason, the ACGC exists to serve the underserved. In order to provide care for more individuals and to meet the growing need in the community, ACGC is currently planning an expansion of their building onsite at the corner of 45th and Lamar. The agency will announce more plans for what this expansion might look like at their 5th Annual Austin Originals Benefit Concert and Live Taping at ACL Live at the Moody Theater on Saturday, August 27, 2016. What is extraordinary about this year’s event is that it will feature performances by two past clients who are making incredible strides within their careers. The great Alejandro Escovedo will be the headlining act, who is internationally known for his signature style, and was recently written up in Rolling Stone Magazine. Sarah Marsh, otherwise known as Sarah Sparkles, is an acclaimed aerial dance performance artist specializing in lyra, who has received top placements in multiple competitions. It is a true testament to the impact of ACGC, as both artists accessed family services at the Center and are now committed to giving back to the cause through their talents and success. The event’s honorary Co-Chairs, BA Snyder of Veritas Group and Colin Pope, Editor of the Austin Business Journal, are extremely dedicated to generating funds to provide quality mental health services for kids as the agency embarks on their expansion planning phase. Moreover, this year’s Emcees are sure to attract support. Terry Lickona, Executive Producer of PBS’s longest standing show – Austin City Limits, and Casey McPherson, Alpha Rev’s lead singer and recognized local mental health advocate, will be the hosts for the event, which will be streamed live by Tour Gigs video production. Sixty-five years is quite an accomplishment for an agency specializing in children’s mental health. Now more than ever, the Center needs community-wide support as they plan their expansion and embark on a capital campaign. If you or someone you, know, could benefit from ACGC’s services, or if you are interested in becoming more involved, donating, or attending the Austin Originals Benefit Concert, please reach out to the Center.

A CHILD’S MENTAL HEALTH IS DIRECTLY CONNECTED TO THEIR OVERALL HEALTH, ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT, AND LIFE OUTCOMES.

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For more information visit, www.austinchildguidance.org

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HEALTH

A Better Way To Provide Patient-Centered

PRENATAL CARE

CommUnityCare offers Centering Pregnancy and tells why this may be a better choice for you BY JESUS KAIN, PROJECT MANAGER, COMMUNITYCARE

ommUnityCare is proud to have an established Centering Pregnancy program for the past two years, and the outcomes have proven this program to be not just effective, but a great way for women to share in this experience. See below for a quick summary of just one way we are providing Patient Centered Care.

DOES A WOMAN HAVE TO BE A PATIENT OF COMMUNITYCARE TO PARTICIPATE IN CENTERING? Yes, Centering Pregnancy replaces all traditional OB visits and patients must be an establish patient with a CommUnityCare provider. Patients must have had their initial OB Visit with their provider before joining a Centering group. HOW CAN A WOMAN TRANSFER THEIR OB CARE TO COMMUNITYCARE IF THEY WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE IN CENTERING? Patients can contact the CommUnityCare OB Coordinators at 512-978-9435, they will guide them through the process of transferring care into CommUnityCare. HOW OFTEN DO THE GROUPS MEET?

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Centering groups initially meet every four weeks for the first four groups and every two weeks for the remaining six groups. Once a patient is 36 weeks they will meet with their provider in traditional one-on-one care in between groups. WILL I SEE THE SAME PROVIDER AT EVERY CENTERING GROUP? Yes, we have dedicated providers and medical assistants for our Centering Pregnancy program. Patients will meet with the same provider and medical assistant through out all 10 sessions. HOW LONG ARE THE GROUP SESSIONS? We have found that two hours is the average time patients spend at their doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visit. Unlike traditional care, Centering Pregnancy group visits offer unhurried time with the provider. Centering providers and patients spend about 18 hours together in group visits. This is about 10 times more than with

traditional individual visits. It is fun for the patients and Centering Pregnancy providers to get to know each other better. Groups are lively, interactive, and focused on issues that are important to the women. DO WOMEN RECEIVE THE SAME CARE IN CENTERING AS THEY WOULD IN TRADITIONAL CARE? Yes, patients receive the same prenatal care in Centering Pregnancy that they would get in one-on-one with their provider. The labs, prescriptions, and ultrasounds will be ordered for them as appropriate by their Centering provider. They will get the exact same care as if they were being seen in traditional care and will even benefit from an extended amount of time with their provider. CAN A WOMAN BRING HER CHILDREN TO THE GROUPS? To avoid distraction for all those attending, we prefer that patients not bring children to the group, if possible. Two hours is

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WHAT IS CENTERING PREGNANCY? Centering Pregnancy is a unique style of prenatal care in a group format. Its aim is to build a community that empowers women to be actively involved in their own care and equips them to make healthy choices throughout their pregnancy and beyond. Women meet for 10 two-hour sessions with a group of 10-12 other pregnant women that are due around the same time as them.

For more information visit, www.communitycaretx.org

quite a long time for a child to sit quietly. Since patients are given a schedule with dates and times of all Centering Pregnancy groups, we encourage them to make child arrangements beforehand. We want patients to be able to focus on their care and allow time for themselves. We know it is not always possible to find childcare. If that is the case, we welcome children and have a child-friendly area in our Centering rooms. CAN A WOMAN BRING HER PARTNER OR SUPPORT PERSON TO THE CENTERING PREGNANCY GROUPS? Having support people come to the groups is optional. Women are free to attend with or without support. Some sessions may be of more interest for support people, like preparing for birth. Support people sit in the circle with the group and full participate in activities and discussions. I WOULD BENEFIT FROM CENTERING PREGNANCY BUT I’M SHY AND MAY BE NERVOUS ABOUT BEING AROUND AND SHARING WITH STRANGERS. Most women who have participated in this type of care tell us how supportive and reassuring it was to connect with other women going through the same experiences of pregnancy. They will have the opportunity to get to know other mothers and perhaps develop a set of lifelong friendships. Having other women in the group gives each person the opportunity to share their own experiences. Many times, another woman asks the questions they are often wondering about but are shy to ask. Most importantly, studies have shown that women who participate in Centering Pregnancy are less likely to have their baby prematurely.

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CAN I TRY OUT CENTERING PREGNANCY BEFORE COMMITTING TO PARTICIPATE? Absolutely, we often encourage women to come to the first session to get a feel of what Centering Pregnancy is. We often find that the majority of women who come to one session enjoy it and decide to continue throughout all sessions. New participates are welcome to a group up to session three. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CENTERING PREGNANCY? • Better health outcomes • Self care • Improved self confidence • More time with their provider • Support and friendship • Learning and fun WHAT INSURANCE PLANS DOES COMMUNITYCARE ACCEPT? We accept all Chip Perinatal and Medicaid plans WHO CAN I CONTACT IF I HAVE FURTHER QUESTIONS ABOUT CENTERING PREGNANCY? CommUnityCare OB Coordinators are happy to answer any questions you may have and may be reached at 512-978-9435.

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HEALTH

SMOKING AND PAIN

Dr. Kristian Delgado tells how smoking relates to pain and other debilitating problems BY KRISTIAN DELGADO, MD

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ABOUT KRISTIAN DELGADO, MD Dr. Delgado is a Texas native who graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio, and went on to obtain his Medical Degree from The University of Texas Medical School in Houston. He then completed a surgical internship at Carilion Clinic in Virginia and went on to complete his anesthesiology residency at The University of Pittsburgh, an institution known nationally and internationally for its expertise in regional anesthesia. Dr. Delgado is a Board Certified Anesthesiologist and completed his fellowship in Pain Management at UC Davis. He also served our country as an officer in the United States Army for several years. Dr. Delgado has received several military commendations and served in Afghanistan where he worked with and taught international physicians pain management techniques and procedures. Dr. Delgado is very passionate about the Texas community. He joined Advanced Pain Care to practice with a collaborative, multidisciplinary team sharing the goal of reducing patients’ level of pain and increasing their quality of life.

controlling pain due to the development of tolerance. The nicotine levels in the body are only steady for about one hour, meaning someone would need to keep smoking continuously to help with pain. Over time, this would have less and less effect even if they continued to smoke hourly. Lastly, those withdrawing may experience depressed mood, anxiety, stomach upset, and irritability. Smoking has also been shown to be an independent risk factor for opioid use. In smoking patients being treated for pain, opioids were more likely to be used. Additionally, those already on opioids were more likely to need higher doses of their medication to control their pain than nonsmokers. What this amounts to is that while the nicotine found in cigarettes may provide some initial benefit for pain control in nonsmokers, overall it will make pain much more difficult to treat. There is evidence that smoking is not directly related to the perceived pain level, it is associated with increasing levels of depression. Depression is highly associated with chronic pain and vice versa, chronic pain is associated with higher levels of depression. Among those with depression, the rate of smoking is significantly higher than the rest of the population, as high as 45 percent. Like smoking, depression has been found to be associated with increased chronic pain conditions including low back and neck pain.

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he question of how smoking affects pain is complicated and multifactorial. It is true that patients who smoke are more likely to develop low back or other types of chronic pain. Additionally, those who smoke are more likely to report higher pain levels, more likely to use higher levels of analgesic or pain medicines, and their pain is likely to have a greater impact on their daily life. Several studies have shown links between moderate to heavy smoking (one or more packs per day) and disability related to pain. Several Finnish studies found teenage smoking was a significant risk factor for developing pain, this trend was also dose responsive. People who smoked more were more likely to develop pain than those who smoked less. There are several epidemiological studies that show trends within the population. We now know that those who smoke are at risk of developing painful conditions. Smoking is a risk factor for osteoporosis, lumbar disc disease, and poor bone healing. We also know that smoking impairs wound healing, thus those that smoke take longer to heal following injury and may have associated chronic pain. In addition to increasing the risk for painful conditions, people who smoke were found to have a greater intensity of pain as well as more areas of pain within their body, in comparison to nonsmokers. Smokers are more likely to report functional and life impairment related to their pain and appear to have worse outcomes in terms of disability related to their pain. Some people report that smoking a cigarette can decrease their immediate pain. In fact, it has been shown that the nicotine found in cigarettes temporarily decreases pain. Several studies have shown that giving patients nicotine before surgery led to decreased pain and decreased use of opioids in their post-operative period. These studies were based on nonsmokers only. The effect was not seen in those who were already using cigarettes on a regular basis. Those who smoke regularly may have a reduced sensitivity to the effect of nicotine on pain. Smoking long term is problematic for

Smoking is associated both with developing pain and seems to have a greater impact on pain in those who develop chronic pain. We know that those who smoke are more likely to have some level of depression, and those with depression are more likely to have pain. Those using chronic pain medications are also more likely to need more medicine to treat their pain and are less likely to improve with treatment. We know from a physical standpoint smoking interferes with the body’s ability to heal itself, and lastly we know that smoking has been associated with higher use of narcotic or opioid prescriptions, which have their own risks and complications. A recent analysis looked at data from two universities with over 5000 patients who were being seen for spine related pain. Those patients who stopped smoking before beginning therapy for their pain, or quit during the course of treatment, had lower overall pain scores and greater functional improvement. Those who continued to smoke were unlikely to have improvement in pain or function and were more likely to have disability related to their pain. Some people are able to quit just by making up their minds to do so. For most, this is difficult and they may need additional resources. The first conversation you may want to have is with your primary care physician. Having that partnership may provide you the support and resources you need to quit. Many people may feel that if they stop and start again, that they have failed, but it is important to remember that many people need more than one attempt at quitting. Your doctor may be able to provide you with a medication that could help. There are nicotine replacement strategies with gum and/or patches. There are also plans that help with cutting down and stopping in a gradual process. Online and phone resources for support are www.smokefree.gov or through the CDC website www.cdc.gov/TOBACCO/ quit_smoking/how_to_quit, or the American Lung Association website www.lung.org/stop-smoking/how-to-quit. References: Shi, Yu, Toby N. Weingarten, Carlos B. Mantilla, W. Michael Hooten, and David O. Warner. “Smoking and pain: pathophysiology and clinical implications.” Anesthesiology 113, no. 4 (2010): 977-992. Hooten, W. Michael, Yu Shi, Halena M. Gazelka, and David O. Warner. “The effects of depression and smoking on pain severity and opioid use in patients with chronic pain.” Pain 152, no. 1 (2011): 223-229. Behrend, Caleb, Mark Prasarn, Ellen Coyne, MaryBeth Horodyski, John Wright, and Glenn R. Rechtine. “Smoking cessation related to improved patient-reported pain scores following spinal care.” The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery 94, no. 23 (2012): 2161-2166.

For more information visit, www.austinpaindoctor.com

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The Sound Choice.

Visit HearLifeAgain.com or call 512-515-1080. A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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80% WOMEN MAKE

1/3 OF ALL FEMALE DEATHS ARE DUE TO

CARDIOVASCULAR

DISEASE AND STROKE

OF HEALTHCARE DECISIONS FOR THE FAMILY

34,000 THE NUMBER 33% OF WOMEN

OVER 20 HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

OF WOMEN WHO

NEARLY DIE EVERY YEAR FROM

PREGNANCY RELATED COMPLICATIONS

THE LEADING

CAUSES OF

DEATH FOR WOMEN HEART DISEASE CANCER CHRONIC LOWER RESPIRATORY DISEASE

39% OF WOMEN HAVE EXPERIENCED SOME TYPE OF PHYSICAL SEXUAL EMOTIONAL VIOLENCE

EVERY YEAR, 4.3 4.3 MILLION GIRLS UNDER 5 YEARS OF AGE EVERY YEAR, MILLION GIRLS UNDER 5 YEARS

DIE COMMUNICABLEDISEASES DISEASES DIEFROM FROMPREVENTABLE PREVENTABLE COMMUNICABLE A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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cover story

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A COMPLETE PRACTICE ADDRESSING WOMEN’S HEALTH THROUGHOUT LIFE’S STAGES YOU’RE IN GOOD HANDS WITH THE CARE PROVIDED AT WOMEN PARTNERS IN HEALTH BY: NICOLE CARBON

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FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT, WWW.WPIH.NET

I had a chance to have a conversation with Dr. Natasya Ikbal with Women Partners in Health (WPIH) – an OB/GYN practice that has been serving the Austin community for over 25 years. It was started by Dr. Karen Swenson and Dr. Diana Weihs in 1985. We discussed care for women throughout the stages of life, touched upon “taboo” topics, and she offered tips on preventative health. Dr.Ikbal has been with the practice for eight years and has two children. Being a mother herself, she explains the overall philosophy of the practice that lends an importance to work/life balance. It was one

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of the reasons she chose to join the practice, and both her sister and mother were already patients too. The practice is made up of eight doctors, most have two to four children, so being able to maintain a balance is key to the success of the practice. Being able to take care of themselves and their families allows them to take better care of their patients. How do they do this? They work collaboratively with one another. “It’s a collegial environment,” explains Dr. Ikbal. This is not to say this still isn’t a demanding profession – an obstetrician can be called at 3 a.m. and work until 4 p.m. or 5 p.m that same day – but

PHOTOS BY STEVE DEMENT

FOR SOME, A VISIT TO AN OB/GYN OFFICE CAN PROVOKE AN UNCOMFORTABLE AND EVEN ANXIOUS FEELING. HAVING BEEN A PATIENT MYSELF, I CAN VOUCH THAT WHEN YOU WALK THROUGH THE DOORS OF WOMEN PARTNERS IN HEALTH THERE’S A FEELING YOU GET – IT’S A SENSE OF CALM, AND THAT YOU ARE TRULY BEING CARED FOR, AND THAT YOU ARE CARED ABOUT.

having this mindset at work creates a better work/life balance. Swenson and Weihs graduated from Baylor College of Medicine together and envisioned having a practice that provided healthcare to women of all ages, at all stages of their lives, and that’s exactly what they have accomplished. After having delivered babies for 30 years, Swenson and Weihs transitioned over to focus on gynecology and now use their expertise to educate other doctors. The doctors at WPIH provide a broad range of care for women who are of adolescent, child-bearing, and menopausal age, as well as of all demographics. It is part of the Seton network known to provide care to underserved women and WPIH carries out that same mission. I asked Dr. Ikbal what major concerns should women be aware of regarding their health. She shared that the Zika virus is something to be aware of at the moment, especially for pregnant patients who may have air travel plans because of its potential impact on their pregnancy. We also touched upon healthcare focuses throughout the stages of women’s lives.

Some advancements and progress in women’s healthcare have taken shape. Because of the Affordable Care Act, more women have access to health services and contraceptives. Since women are living longer, there has been an emphasis on preventative healthcare to improve the overall quality of life. A whole new mind/ body approach has also developed with a focus on postpartum depression and anxiety. Now, women are being screened before, during, and after giving birth to their child. A

all consistently on the same page and simply do what’s best for the patient. They don’t rush to issue a surgical procedure and when it is necessary, it is as minimally-invasive as possible. They maintain close relationships with specialists in the field if an issue arrises beyond their scope of care, offering seamless care to their patients. The doctors use each other as their own doctors, which speaks volumes. They are all Board Certified and are involved in the community. My initial feeling that first visit to the office was spot on, I was in good hands.

number of causes are related to anxiety and depression in new and soon-to-be mothers that are often not discussed. These topics are sometimes considered “taboo,” or women simply do not wish to share with each other their vulnerabilities. Giving birth is a huge life-changing and transitional event, and problems with breastfeeding and the anxiety of what to do with a new baby, simply to keep it alive, are common concerns. Some women, perhaps more than you may know, have anxiety over if they will, or are able to, love their child. A mental-focused approach is being offered such as talk therapy, especially to women who are breastfeeding. At WPIH all of the doctors share a similar approach of evidence-based practices. They are

CARDIACRELATED CAUSES ARE THE NUMBER ONE KILLER IN WOMEN OF MENOPAUSAL AGE.

ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS At this stage of life, women should consider having the HPV vaccination and have conversations with their healthcare provider about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and contraceptives. AGES 20-40 Women who want to become pregnant should abstain from drug and alcohol use, begin, or maintain, an exercise program, take prenatal vitamins, become aware of breast health, and cervical health with regular Pap tests. Women who do not want to become pregnant should be aware of contraceptives, as well as breast and cervical health. AGES 40-MENOPAUSE At this age, women should focus on bone and cardiac health. Women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis during this stage, and cardiac-related causes are the number one killer in women of menopausal age. A loss of estrogen is a major cause in this. Women of this age should also have their cholesterol levels checked and focus on preventative care incorporating exercise into their lives, like walking, three to five times per week.

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This information was provided by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For more information visit, www.cdc.gov

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WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT ZIKA

       

Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects. Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters. They can also bite at night. There has been no local transmission of Zika in the continental U.S. There is no vaccine to prevent, or medicine to treat, Zika. Zika can be spread by a man to his sex partners.

SYMPTOMS Many people with Zika won’t even know they have it. The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week. The most common symptoms of Zika are:

   

Fever Rash Joint Pain Conjunctivitis (red eyes)

PREGNANT WOMEN

Delay travel to areas with Zika. Pregnant women and their male partners should strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites. If you have a male sex partner who lives in or travels to an area with Zika, you should use condoms the right way every time you have sex, or do not have sex during the pregnancy. If you develop the symptoms of Zika, see a healthcare provider right away for testing.

WOMEN TRYING TO BECOME PREGNANT

Women trying to become pregnant and their male partners should strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites. Talk to your healthcare provider about plans to become pregnant. A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

WOMEN’S HEALTH

ANY BABY CAN STEPS UP TO BRING AWARENESS TO POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION Experts offer support to address this disorder that effects many mothers BY JOHN BRANHAM AND BECKY MORALES, LCSW

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intervention and treatment, which in turn helps women know they are not alone, and help is available. The more women know about perinatal mood disorders, the less isolated and alone they feel. Early detection and assessment identifies women so they can receive the support they deserve without feeling tremendous shame or stigma, or fears around not knowing what is happening to them during a time that's supposed to feel so happy and joyous," says Dr. Kelly Boyd, Psy.D.

FACTS ABOUT POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION Although the term “postpartum depression” is most often used, there are actually a spectrum of perinatal mental health reactions that women may experience, including: • Depression during pregnancy and postpartum • Anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum • Pregnancy or postpartum OCD • Postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder • Postpartum psychosis While many women experience some mild mood changes during or after the birth of a child, 15 to 20 percent of women experience more significant symptoms of depression or anxiety. Women of every culture, age, income level and race can develop perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and symptoms can appear any time during pregnancy and the first 12 months after childbirth. Even after 12 months, women can still experience symptoms especially when

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ccording to the Centers for Disease Control, as many as 19 percent of new mothers in the U.S. experience symptoms of postpartum depression. In January, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a government-appointed health panel, recommended that all pregnant and postpartum women be screened for depression. The recommendation after evidence indicated that screening pregnant women improves detection and treatment outcomes. Despite this, many expectant and new moms in Texas aren’t being screened. Typically, the 10-question survey, known as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, is easy for healthcare providers to administer. But while organizations throughout the state, like Any Baby Can, a local nonprofit whose mission is to help parents raise healthy and happy children, are making a push to bring awareness to PPD, the state of Texas currently does not require depression screening. "Screening pregnant and postpartum women is critical and needed. Women in their third trimester should be thoroughly screened for potential risk factors which would allow early recognition and detection, thus allowing prompt care and resources that can be given to moms and families. Similarly, women should be assessed at their initial postpartum OB visits and well child checks, as the pediatrician typically sees new moms before the six week postpartum visit. It's essential to moms’ and babies' wellbeing to be screened because with early recognition and detection, comes early

there's been a significant hormonal shift like weaning or resumption of menstruation.

SYMPTOMS OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION Many times, it is hard to recognize or identify a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder for several reasons including, a new mother might not recognize depression or anxiety because she is tired, overwhelmed, or simply adjusting to life with a baby, or mothers and their families might feel ashamed or embarrassed. Finally, each woman experiences a unique situation and unique symptoms. However, the following are postpartum depression symptoms to watch for: • Depressed mood or severe mood swings • Excessive crying • Difficulty bonding with your baby • Withdrawing from family and friends • Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual • Inability to sleep (insomnia) or sleeping too much • Overwhelming fatigue or loss of energy • Reduced interest and pleasure in activities you used to enjoy • Intense irritability and anger • Fear that you’re not a good mother • Feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, or inadequacy • Diminished ability to think clearly, concentrate, or make decisions • Severe anxiety and panic attacks • Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

RISK FACTORS FOR POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION There is no one cause for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Women who develop depression or anxiety around childbearing have symptoms that are caused by a combination of psychological, social, and biological stressors. Hormonal fluctuations cause reactions in sensitive women. Risk factors

do include a personal or family history of mood or anxiety disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and sensitivity to hormonal changes. Developing a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder is not your fault. You did not do anything to “get” this. The risk factors for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders include, but are not limited to:

Online Support Meetings • www.postpartum.net/ psi-online-support-meetings

• A history of depression or anxiety in you or your family members • A previous experience with a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder • Treatment for infertility • Childhood trauma • Hyperemesis gravidarum • Problems with your thyroid • Mothers of multiples • Teen moms • If you have diabetes (type 1, 2, or gestational) • History of physical or sexual abuse • Poverty/low Income women • Military wives • A perfectionist personality • An unplanned pregnancy • Traumatic childbirth • A previous miscarriage • A fear of childbirth • A recent major stressor such as a house move, job loss, job change, etc.

• Toll-free telephone number anyone can call to get basic information, support, and resources.

RESOURCES FOR THOSE WITH POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION If you are having any thoughts of harming yourself or another, it is important to seek support immediately. National Suicide Prevention Hotline for immediate help • 1-800-273-8255 • www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org Postpartum Support International • www.postpartum.net Chat with an Expert • www.postpartum.net/chat-with-an-expert

Warmline • www.postpartum.net/get-help/ psi-warmline-english-and-spanish • 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD)

• You are welcome to leave a confidential message any time and one of the Warmline volunteers will return your call as soon as possible. If you are not able to talk when the volunteer calls you, you can arrange another time to connect. • Talking with your medical professional about what you are experiencing is important. Together, you can determine if medication would be helpful. • Talking with a counselor, or therapist, who understands perinatal mood and anxiety disorders can be helpful. • A support group can be helpful as a safe space where you can talk with others who understand what you are experiencing. • Any Baby Can offers a free postpartum support group every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30am. For more information on Any Baby Can’s Postpartum Depression Support Group, call 512-454-3743. “We know that roughly 1 in 7 women experience significant symptoms of depression or anxiety during or after the birth of a child. The importance of having support services available to meet these needs is absolutely essential,” said Becky Morales, LCSW and Clinical Supervisor at Any Baby Can. “The weekly postpartum support group we offer at Any Baby Can is a source of support for many new mothers and we are grateful to be able to meet this need.”

For more information visit, www.anybabycan.org

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WOMEN’S HEALTH

A NEW HIP

AND A LIVELY OUTLOOK AHEAD

Austin resident Liz Jacobs receives a hip replacement and continues to live an active lifestyle iz Jacobs radiates energy, I could feel it through the phone while listening to her story. The reason she’s so happy is because of a hip replacement procedure nearly eliminating pain she lived with for years. Somehow I feel that she is genuinely happy anyway, but living pain-free is definitely a contributing factor. This spring Jacobs got to try out her new hip. She was asked to serve as an Honorary Observer at the Shell Houston Open. This is an invitation only, VIP experience that allowed her to walk inside the ropes with the players. She proudly accepted and walked a total of seven hours just four months after her procedure. We learned more about Liz’s journey through injuries, rehabilitation, living with pain, and now a life of pain-free movement. Liz grew up in a very active, and seemingly tough, household. If you fell off your bike and scraped a knee, her family’s attitude was to get up, brush it off, and get back on the bike. Liz grew up riding horses, one afternoon she was thrown down a hill and did what she always did – got up and brushed herself off. For years, she could hear a popping in her hip, but didn’t think much of it. She married young and had two children while remaining active with tennis and looking after her children. At age 28 she started having back issues and at 30 she had a ruptured disc and had back surgery. At age 35 she had a skiing accident causing a knee injury. She was like a moving target and injury had perfect aim! These injuries were effecting her right side, naturally she was off balance. She continued to stay active and play tennis having her knee treated with minor procedures. As the years, and pain, went on she backed off tennis. In the meantime, her son started working for Stryker, a company based in Houston that makes a product called Total Hip. For years, doctors in Austin attributed Liz’s pain to back and knee issues. Her son urged her to get a second opinion from the doctor he was working with in Houston. She figured, why not? Dr. Adam

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Freedhand, of UT Physicians Orthopedic Memorial Westside, looked at Liz’s MRI results and recognized she would need a hip replacement. The X-ray showed her hip was bone on bone and had been that way for years. In all of her years of seeing doctors and receiving physical therapy, not one practitioner mentioned her hip. Remember that pop pop sound years earlier when she fell off the horse, this was the resulting injury. Liz explains, her son’s suggestion to seek a second opinion and his association with working for Stryker and with Dr. Freedhand, “felt like a blessing that a child can give back to you in that way – that my son son was able to help his mom. Second opinions really do matter.” She felt grateful to be properly diagnosed.

SECOND OPINIONS REALLY DO MATTER.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIZ JACOBS

BY NICOLE CARBON

“On December 14, 2014, my life changed for the better.” Without hesitation Liz opted for a hip replacement performed by Dr. Freedhand. “I just wanted to stop living in pain.” The next day after her procedure Liz was already walking up the stairs of her home. She used a walker on that first day and by the second day only a cane. Under their care, the doctors allowed Liz to add activity back into her daily life. She started slowly walking up the driveway and quickly worked her way up to walking a mile. She added activity with mindfulness and stopped when she was tired. Liz set goals for herself, the first month after surgery she would walk one mile, in the second month, two miles, and so on until she reached a goal of four miles. By April of 2015, she was weaning herself off her prescriptions that helped the pain. One year after surgery she was in Breckenridge skiing. She incorporated small bits of tennis back into her activities. She played a practice match and did ok. It’s a sport she has fun with and plays “once in a while.” “Tennis was the thing that made me super sore,” says Liz. She’s smart enough to know what she’s capable of to be pain-free. Most recently, Liz walked at the Shell Houston Open. Participating was Liz’s way of being able to talk about her positive and successful experience with the hip replacement. Joining her was another patient of of Freedhand’s, a gentleman who received a knee replacement. “It was a long day on my feet from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the first nine holes being the most challenging. As the day went on it got easier. There as no way I was not going to finish.” For me, it was

an honor to say I had such a positive result. If you’re worried about having this procedure, seeing [an actual patient] can really change your life if you’re living in pain.” Liz continues to challenge herself by setting mini goals, within reason. She participates in charity walks, and next up on her list is summer travel – going on a trip and walking around

the locale she visits. Last words of wisdom from Liz who has walked this long journey to recovery and finding the way to live a pain-free life, “there’s not a reason to live your life in pain.” Liz shares that her grandmother lived to be 103. Liz, at 57, has a long way to go, and many years to live an active life. What an example for us all to follow!

For more information visit, www.strykerchallenge.com

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WOMEN’S HEALTH

ANGER, FORGIVENESS, AND

LETTING GO

Tips for women to handle anger best and why it isn’t necessarily a negative emotion

orgiveness is a process. It starts with an emotional injury. Someone says or does something, intentional or not, and hurts someone else. The one injured feels powerless. Offering forgiveness can lead us to feel more vulnerable and open to re-injury. So why do it? Being hurt also leaves us feeling angry and that is okay because anger lets us reassert ourselves and it lets us, and others, know that a boundary has been betrayed. Anger is also protective. It keeps away those who could

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hurt us again, at least long enough until we feel safe enough to reconnect with them. Anger is not rage. When anger morphs into rage, it loses its ability to help and only intensifies its ability to hurt. Some people allow their anger to dissolve into a desire for revenge, to hurt the one who hurt them. Their guiding principle is “don’t get mad, get even.” Revenge may be pursued to balance the equation; as a good friend and therapist colleague of mine says, “Hurt people hurt people.” Revenge is really a bad attempt at establishing empathy. Revenge says, “I want

you to feel what I feel so you will not ever do this to me again.” But revenge only perpetuates the hurt cycle. The truth is you cannot have close relationships without some amount of anger. It just comes with the territory. Anger is the natural by-product of conflict, and if there is any life in a relationship, there will certainly be conflict. Anger in a relationship communicates significance; it demonstrates that the person who hurt you really matters to you. If you did not care, then you probably would not feel any anger. Anger’s opposite is apathy. So, anger is

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BY BRAD KENNINGTON, LMFT, LPC

not a bad thing at all, really. Expressed in a way that is respectful to both, then it is healthy and normal. Unfortunately, women have gotten the short end of the deal. Our culture has conditioned women not to feel, much less express, anger. Anger is a “guy’s emotion,” or so says our society. I grew up in East Texas, a traditionally southern part of Texas, where it was not polite for women to show anger. Instead, when women were angry at someone, it was often expressed with a smirk of a smile and “Well, bless your heart.” That is southern for “Go to hell!” But having to swallow all of that anger can feel like hell in itself! So, where does forgiveness fit into all this? It helps cool the lingering anger and heal the wound. Dr. Loren A. Olsen, a psychiatrist and author, characterizes forgiveness as “a psychological antidote to anger.” And according to Olsen, the healing and forgiving process is comprised of two parts: letting go of the anger and About the Author moving towards reconciliation. Brad Kennington, LMFT, LPC, is a therapist in private practice in Forgiveness does not mean West Austin. He provides therapy you forget. It does not mean that to individuals, couples and the one who hurt you is off the families, and he specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, hook and allowed to engage in relationship issues, anxiety and the same behavior. Nor does it sexual orientation issues. He is also an associate faculty and mean that the relationship will clinical supervisor at the Austin remain the same, or even continFamily Institute. Because of ue. Sometimes reconciliation is his work, Kennington has been quoted by Reuters and the Wall more about making peace with Street Journal, and he has been oneself and letting go of the reinterviewed on Huff Post Live and on satellite radio. lationship that was so unhealthy. Forgiveness is more of a turning point, allowing you to move away from the raw anger and towards something new. Once a genuine apology has been offered and genuinely accepted, both of which can take time, then the relationship has the possibility of being stronger than before. If anger is a clenched fist, forgiveness is an open, and vulnerable, hand. You can choose to keep your fists clenched and keep “blessing their hearts,” but as Anne Lamott writes in her book, Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith, “…not forgiving is like drinking rat poison and then waiting for the rat to die.” I read once that forgiveness is the power to begin again. Beginnings can be messy. But it is in the mess, the letting go, which opens up a space for something better to emerge. Letting go creates a bit more breathing room. Through forgiveness, we exhale the heaviness of the anger and inhale the levity of newness. Sometimes shallow breaths through a clenched fist and a “bless your heart” are all you can manage for the moment. It does not matter – just keep breathing. For more information visit, www.bradkennington.com

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WOMEN’S HEALTH & FITNESS

Taking Women’sHealth out of the Waiting Room and onto the

Dance Floor How one Austinite is changing women’s health in an unexpectedly exciting way BY MELODY AFKAMI AND DAVINA BRUNO

ans Bos, contemporary admirer of dance said, “When I dance, I cannot judge, I cannot hate. I cannot separate myself from life. I can only be joyful and whole. That is why I dance.” And that is why founder of Melody DanceFit, Melody Afkami, is using dance fitness to reinvigorate health and wellness among Austin’s women. With a degree in Psychology from the University of Texas, and formal training in pointe, jazz, hip-hop, and Latin ballroom, Melody is taking her experience to the masses in an amazing celebration of womanhood, gratitude and happiness. According to Melody, one of the biggest issues facing women’s health today is a poor work/life balance. Women are naturally ambitious, and Austinites are no different, however, success often accompanies neglecting our bodies and general mindfulness. The mind and body are connected, and daily doses of stress can cause our bodies to react in some very specific ways – with stress, there is often a temporary increase in physical energy production. While this sounds like a great thing, this energy output normally compromises other bodily processes such as the digestive and immune systems. In women especially, this can lead to short

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and long-term health problems. Melody addresses this issue by bringing mindfulness and positivity back into women’s health so the focus is less on adding another task (working out) to the daily grind, and more on shifting focus from everyday stressors to inner wellness and balance. Not only does work often compromise women’s wellness, but the modern-day beauty culture does little to uplift and motivate positive body images for women of all

ages. Unlike a few decades ago when social media was mere science-fiction, the average woman today feels more insecure about her body, comparing herself with others constantly with social media images. Today, this reality manifests through eating disorders, poor community structures among women, and a lack of celebration of individual beauty and strength. “As women, it’s our responsibility to choose kindness over cattiness and understand we’re the most powerful

when we stand with, and for, each other,” says Melody. For Melody, this reality needed to be overcome in a novel way. Unlike many other fitness gurus, her focus is not solely on helping clients reach a specific physical goal, she started DanceFit to create a safe space for women to bond socially and form an uplifting community. “I strive to instill resilience, positive psychology, and emotional intelligence in my classes,” Melody states. “As women, we’re told to be so many things; to be skinnier, to be stronger, to be softer, to be tougher, to speak up, to quiet down, the list continues.” In the midst of a stellar playlist of modern tunes, a dark room and strobe lights, each of Melody’s classes is marked by her continuous verbal reassurances. By the end of each session, each person walks out happier and just a little bit healthier. “I believe in the power of movement and the empowerment it brings to people.” Even better, each of her weekly classes gives back to Dress for Success, a nonprofit that promotes economic independence among women by providing support, professional attire, and development tools. To each woman benefiting from Dress for Success, Melody’s mantra of empowerment and holistic wellness echoes far.

I STRIVE TO INSTILL RESILIENCE, POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY, AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN MY CLASSES.

Practically, improving the state of women’s health in Austin begins in three simple places:

5/ Dance. As Gabrielle Roth states, “Movement is both my medicine and meditation.” There is such a healing power in movement; it decreases stress, increases memory, and promotes social interaction and bonding.

Melody’s tips for staying sweaty + sexy 1/ Be kind to yourself and others. Kindness has to come from within, and in order to easily give it out, you have to start by being kind to yourself. If you are kind to yourself, you are more likely to treat yourself with healthy food and exercise, and when you are consistently kind, you feel healthy from the inside out. Kindness is confident and sexy. 2/ Play. Play is an extremely underrated activity in adulthood, however, when we embrace the art of play, we claim a better quality of life, one with more laughter and less stress. To release even more endorphins, find an activity that allows you to sweat and play! 3/ Serve. Whether it’s helping your friend move or volunteering at your local soup kitchen, get involved and shift your mentality from “me” to “we.” Serving is sexy. 4/ Grow. Every day is an opportunity to learn more about yourself and others. We tend to resist pain, and discomfort, but those are often the moments in which we grow the most. Challenge complacency and do things that scare you.

1/ Practicing gratitude scientifically leads to improved physical health. 2/ Working out with a group or partner provides accountability. Plus, the mixture of physical activity and socializing is a great form of therapy for women. 3/ Eating real food and finding a diet that’s right for you. If you are eating real food without preservatives and experience stable energy levels with no physical ailments, then you’re on the right track. For more information visit, www.melodydancefit.com

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SPORTS

TOP FOUR BENEFITS OF

GOLF FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH Academy of Golf Dynamics shares why you should get into the game BY KYLE JEROME

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DEVELOPS AN APPRECIATION FOR THE OUTDOORS Oftentimes, a hectic work and home schedule can keep us from enjoying one of our most precious and valuable resources – the outdoors. Being outdoors can provide for us both physically and mentally. Sunlight provides Vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, helps support the immune system, helps protect against dementia, strengthens teeth, and is essential for decreasing symptoms of asthma. Mentally, what could be a better way to unwind than spending time with nature being physically active? The golf course provides a great platform to decompress, clear your mind, and experience a sense of peace and calm.

PROVIDES A SOLID WORKOUT Swinging a golf club requires you to use more muscles than just about any workout you will do in a gym. A golf swing requires the use of your legs, arms, shoulders, and core...not to mention all of the little muscles required for good balance. Walking 18 holes is the equivalent of roughly five miles, so it's a great way to improve your

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s a healthy lifestyle important to you? For many women in today's society, the answer to that question is yes! However, juggling the demands and time restraints of a career, family, and whatever else life throws at you can be a tricky proposition. For many, good health takes a backseat to everything else that comes with a busy day. It’s also possible that you’re one of the few that has found the time to devote to a healthy lifestyle but are getting bogged down by the same old boring workout routine. In either case, there is an alternative to not only improve your physical fitness, but also your mental fitness. And the answer is golf! Before you think to yourself, "Who in the world has time to play golf?”, one of the most important responsibilities you have to yourself is make time for you. How well you perform your everyday activities and responsibilities at work and at home, in large regard, depend on your physical and mental health. So, maybe the first step in this process is look at your schedule and make more time for you! Once you've done that, here are some of the health benefits of golf for women.

cardio as well. Have you grown bored of your normal workout? Go play a round of golf and enjoy the benefits of not only a great workout, but a sport more and more women are playing every year.

RELIEVES STRESS

Stress comes in all different shapes and sizes. It comes at us from all directions. Finding ways to relieve stress is not only crucial for our physical wellbeing, but our mental wellbeing as well. If you don't have time for a full round of golf, go the range and hit practice balls. Hitting balls on the range is a great way to physically relieve stress, much like hitting a punching bag in a gym, only you get to do it outside in the peace and quiet of a golf course instead of a smelly gym. Like I said before, finding the time to make it to the golf course can be challenging. Making time for yourself to fit in a round of golf, or a session on the range, can not only reduce stress levels, but it can also make you a better time manager.

IMPROVES YOUR MIND

Improves your mind? What does that mean exactly? Well, physically, golf requires you to have at least a minimum level of hand-eye coordination. You are swinging one object to hit another object. Using your brain to improve your motor skills is a benefit of golf that can strengthen

HITTING BALLS ON THE RANGE IS A GREAT WAY TO PHYSICALLY RELIEVE STRESS.

cognitive skills which helps the overall fitness of our brain. Mentally, there is no other game that requires the use of strategy more than golf. Problem solving and the use of strategy to shoot lower scores can be a challenging but fun way to spend some time working out your brain. It has been said that more business is done on a golf course than any other place besides a restaurant. Business executives are, now more than ever, turning to golf and golf outings to conduct business and team building exercises. While golf can provide many health benefits, it can also be a valuable inlet for opportunities in the business world. So the next time you're looking to improve your physical and mental wellbeing, turn to golf and enjoy everything it has to offer both personally and professionally. You won't be disappointed!

For more information visit, www.golfdynamics.com

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PROFILE

IS A MORE

HOLISTIC APPROACH

The Right Choice For You? The team at OBGYN North offers women of all ages a broad range in healthcare choices BY NICOLE CARBON PHOTOS BY STEVE DEMENT

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had the opportunity to speak to Emily Darnall, a certified registered midwife, to talk about midwifery, Natural Beginnings Birth Center, and Dr. Christina Sebestyenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s OBGYN North practice and what makes it so unique. Did you know a visit to the NBBC is not just for woman wishing to get pregnant or who are already pregnant? The center offers a broad scope of practices and care for women of all ages. While talking with Emily, I learned the benefits of choosing a midwifery for your wellness care, pregnancy care, menopausal stage, and beyond. For a lot of women, choosing a practice for gynecology care can be a daunting decision. There are dozens of practices in the Austin area. How do you know which is the right one for you? There are a number of reasons women go for care that go beyond routine Paps. Under the direction of Dr. Sebestyen, the team at OBGYN North and the Natural Beginnings Birth Center offer a sense of calm to treat

infections, educate about STDs and birth control options, and care for those who are wanting to become, or who already are, pregnant. The midwives at NBBC are unique because they are all certified nurses with graduate degrees, meaning they can deliver your baby in a hospital, if that care is required at the time of delivery. Professional midwives are not certified to do this. What makes Dr. Sebestyen’s practice different is that it’s under the direction of a medical doctor associated with St. David’s Hospital. The Center is literally next door to a medical unit in the case a patient needs care that goes beyond the scope of the in-office range. “We have a unique collaborative model, where women, during pregnancy, rotate through all the providers (MDs and nurse midwives ) through their prenatal care,” says Darnall. “The purpose of this is for our client to meet every provider that may deliver her baby on the day she goes into labor. I think many moms can relate to seeking prenatal care at a busy practice, and ultimately not having “their doctor” attend their delivery. Being an Obstetrician is a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week job, and often you have your baby at unexpected times. Our goal is to provide collaborative care for women so that on her labor/birth day, she knows, has a relationship with, and trusts the provider who manages her labor and attends her birth.” The midwives at NBBC recognize that pregnant women are not sick women – a normal stigma in today’s society. They consider themselves the “experts in normal.” Eighty percent of women have normal, uncomplicated pregnancies. Another unique aspect Darnall explains is that, “the birth center option allows women in labor to use hydrotherapy, or labor in a deep tub. About half of our babies at the birth center are born in the water; and many women are excited to discover that water birth is an option.” In the case that a patient’s pregnancy is abnormal, the CNMs at NBBC have the ability to pass the patient along to a medical doctor on staff. These physicians can perform surgery, C-sections, and any other medical procedure, if necessary. The CNMs also have access to the knowledge of the next level of care at their fingertips, allowing them to provide the best practices for their patients. Being associated with St. David’s North Austin Medical Center brought back midwives to

WE HAVE A UNIQUE COLLABORATIVE MODEL, WHERE WOMEN, DURING PREGNANCY, ROTATE THROUGH ALL THE PROVIDERS THROUGH THEIR PRENATAL CARE. the hospital giving the patient more choices. The midwives have the support of the doctors to allow them to practice. This is important because the labor and delivery unit at St. David’s is a high-volume care unit with many OBGYN groups. The NBBC is the only group at the hospital to allow midwives to deliver babies, what a relief to the patient who needs that next level of care and doesn’t have to be “passed off ” to some unknown doctor who may not share the same views on health practices. The option to choose a birthing center appeals to a certain type of person with a more holistic approach to healthcare. As common as C-sections are, they are still major surgery that involves a risk of infection, scarring in the uterus, and increased healing and recovery time away from the baby. For patients of the NBBC, this is probably one of the last resorts to deliver

their babies. Although, in some circumstances, it may be necessary. Darnall describes the center as a “one-stop shop.” It provides prenatal care, labs, ultrasounds, genetic testing, and most recently they added a laser technician to the team who provides laser hair removal and treats stretch marks and rosacea. How’s that for efficient? In all seriousness, women who choose NBBC are made to feel comfortable and are supported in their decisions and choices. The team sees the full scope of women’s healthcare, helping patients make informed choices and offering best practices. There’s a partnership between the doctor, midwife, and patient. It’s a practice you can choose for all stages of your healthcare needs, whether you are of child-bearing age or beyond. OBGYN North is accepting new patients.

For more information visit, www.natural-beginning.com A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

Austin MD Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2016

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PHOTO COURTESY OF ADVANCED PAIN CARE

ADVANCED PAIN CARE

t Advanced Pain Care, patients work with doctors and nurses trained in the latest science-based treatment options. These include expert medication management and targeted injections to treat damaged nerves and joints. Dr. Mark T. Malone is the founder and Medical Director of Advanced Pain Care. A former instructor at Baylor College of Medicine, he is Board Certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Management. Dr. Malone leads a team of nine doctors and twelve nurse practitioners and physicians assistants in eight locations around Central Texas.

Advanced Pain Care offers accurate diagnosis and rapid treatment. We specialize in treating all types of chronic pain including back, neck, headache, post surgical pain, cancer pain, neuropathy, and fibromyalgia. One of the biggest problems in the world of pain today is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome. This means back surgery has been performed and the result is even more pain than before the surgery. Unfortunately, this is one of the most common results of back surgery, and one of the most common reasons patients come to our clinic. Recent medical advances allow us to place tiny electrodes along damaged nerves in the back, which block pain signals. The device used

to block pain signals, called a neurostimulator, or a “pacemaker for the spine,” is covered by Medicare and most insurance. The procedure is done in our outpatient center in about an hour. Advanced Pain Care’s goal is to rapidly achieve pain relief while avoiding surgery, sometimes that can be done in the very first office visit. Same or next day appointments are always available. In most cases, no referral is necessary and we accept most insurance plans. For more information visit, www.austinpaindoctor.com or call (512) 244-4APC (4272).

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TEXAS DIABETES & ENDOCRINOLOGY

married and has two young sons who keep her very busy. She enjoys swimming, running, reading, and trivia. Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology. Solutions that fit you. For more information visit,www. texasdiabetes.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEXAS DIABETES & ENDOCRINOLOGY

exas Diabetes & Endocrinology is Central Texas’ expert in diabetes, thyroid, osteoporosis, weight loss, and hormonal conditions. Their philosophy is anchored in the belief that patients come first and are their partners. They have assembled a top-rated team of Endocrinologists, Physician Extenders, and Clinical Nurse Specialists that spend as much time with you as you need to become educated about your diagnosis, and learn how to fit a personalized treatment plan into your life. Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology is proud to have Dr. Lindsay Harrison on staff. Dr. Harrison completed her undergraduate degree in Biomedical Mechanical Engineering at Southern Methodist University in Dallas where she was on the swimming and rowing teams. She then attended The University of Texas Medical School at Houston where she received her medical degree with honors. Dr. Harrison moved back to Dallas to train at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School for both an Internal Medicine residency and then an Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism subspecialty fellowship. During her time there, she was Chief Fellow in the Endocrinology division. She published several manuscripts and received funding to initiate a large research protocol. She joined Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology in October of 2013. Dr. Harrison is a native Texan, born in San Antonio, and is happy to be back in South Texas closer to her family. She is

ustin Independent School District (AISD) is reinventing the urban-school experience. We believe all students will graduate and be prepared for the next stages in life – college, career, and real life. We are creating an agile, effective, and responsive organization where vibrant relationships with parents/guardians, teachers, staff, and our community will support healthy and successful students and schools. We value every child, every day. Students’ social, emotional, and physical health are vital to their ability to perform and succeed academically and to be productive students and citizens. We support student health through our Comprehensive

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Health Team. We provide comprehensive health services from campus-based nurses who provide bandages to medical emergencies, school-based mental health services, to state mandated vision and hearing screenings. Our focus is on developing healthier students. Healthier students make better learners and better learners attend school, are engaged, are happy, and are proud to call AISD home. #AISDProud

For more information visit, www.austinisd.org

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AUSTIN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

NEIGHBORS EMERGENCY CENTER

F PHOTO COURTESY OF NEIGHBORS EMERGENCY CENTER

ounded by a group of emergency room physicians, Neighbors Emergency Center operates as a freestanding emergency room, providing patients with the same level of service as hospital-based emergency rooms. We operate 24-hours a day, seven-days a week, 365-days a year. All centers are staffed with local, board certified physicians. Neighbors Emergency Center has grown greatly in the past eight years with more than 20 locations throughout Texas, including our Mueller and Lakeline centers. Neighbors Emergency Center is keeping Austin well by providing a purposeful culture of caring that sets us apart from the healthcare industry as a whole. Our purpose drives our vision, which is inspired by

our patients, culture, and community. We believe in providing extraordinary care that is dedicated to making lives better every day, and operate around an unfaltering vision to be “The Best Neighbors Ever.” This means providing unparalleled medical care driven by compassion, respect, and dedication. Our physicians provide nothing less than the highest of quality patient care. The hiring process targets physicians to join a team that is confident in the passion of creating a patient-focused experience with the proper medical knowledge and clinical judgment to diagnose, treat, and save lives. Neighbors Emergency Center is also keeping Austin well through our community involvement. Participation within the communities we serve is integral to our mission. From our yearly Texas-wide Toys for Tots drives, to our sponsorship of sports leagues and after school activities, we strive to be the Best Neighbors Ever. For more information visit, www.nec24.com

Save the date August 27, 2016 5th Annual Austin Originals Benefit Concert & Live Stream! Presented by H-E-B Tournament of Champions Proceeds benefit the Austin Child Guidance Center providing quality mental health care to children and families for over 65 years Presenting the 2016 Phyllis Richards Austin Icon for Children Awards

Co-Chairs

BA Snyder & Colin Pope

Co-Emcees

Terry Lickona & Casey McPherson

$125-Early Bird Rate until July 1st~Price includes open bar & Austin Originals Lexus of Austin & Lakeway Tasting Grove R eseRve tickets / sponsoRships at http :// bidpal . net / austinoRiginals 2016

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Health & Beauty

THE PLAIN TRUTH ABOUT FANCY SKINCARE Dr. Alina Sholar educates us on the difference between over-the-counter cosmetics and pharmaceuticals

re you throwing away your hard earned money for “fancy” designer skincare that delivers false expectations? Is your bathroom cabinet jam packed with barely-used, florally-scented facial creams that don’t make you look “10 years younger,” as promised? If so, don’t feel bad! With the hottest marketing trends and tactical advertising, it is nearly impossible for consumers not to fall under the spell of cosmetic companies’ claims. As licensed skincare experts, we are here to educate you so you can protect your investment in yourself. The truth is, there is a huge difference between over-the-counter cosmetics and pharmaceuticals (aka cosmeceuticals), and it’s not the price tag. Many physician-directed skincare regimens are less expensive per use than their cosmetic cousins, yet are far more effective in anti-aging your skin. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) divides skincare products into these two distinct categories: cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Cosmetics are often the well-known, department store, direct sales, or over-the-counter beauty products that are defined by the FDA as “articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed on, introduced onto, or otherwise applied to the human body...for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance.” Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? Here is the problem: cosmetic companies can claim, promise, and advertise whatever it is that you

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as the consumer wants to hear. But look at the fine print. It will often state at the bottom of that beautiful infomercial, “This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.” This common disclaimer is often overlooked by consumers, but they are sure to notice the marketing, using pretty pictures and catch phrases like “clinically proven” and “dermatologist tested.” You will even see the phrases (including the word “dermatologists,” for example) incorporated into their brand names, yet they are not actually administered by a dermatologist at all, but by home-based distributors with little to no education about real dermatology. There are other examples, where they claim all over their advertising that they have “science” to prove the worth of the product, yet in truth they have no scientifically unbiased, peer-reviewed journal literature to speak of. False advertising? Definitely. So, how do they get away with it all? These companies are not regulated by the FDA. They can claim “scientific studies” without any proof or validation of the products efficacy or safety, so these claims, in truth, hold no value for the consumer. With appealing packaging and promotion, they appear fabulous, but those qualities simply do not deliver results. In the world of pharmaceuticals, it’s an entirely different story. Oftentimes, it can take years and numerous studies for the FDA to approve a pharmaceutical product formulation. The term “cosmeceuticals,” coined by the famous

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BY DR. ALINA SHOLAR

MANY PHYSICIAN-DIRECTED SKINCARE REGIMENS ARE LESS EXPENSIVE PER USE THAN THEIR COSMETIC COUSINS, YET ARE FAR MORE EFFECTIVE IN ANTI-AGING YOUR SKIN. skin researcher Albert Kligman, is used to define these professional medical-grade skincare products. You can only purchase cosmeceuticals through a physician – most often a plastic surgeon or dermatologist – due to the contents and high concentration of active ingredients with an appropriate and effective delivery system. The product’s ability to change and improve the appearance of your skin depends on three things: The correct mixture of highly concentrated active ingredients, and arguably even more essential than the constituents itself, The system of physiologic delivery of the active ingredient, and Depth of skin penetration. In order to understand the anatomy of the skin, let’s think of our skin as a mattress and sheets – the dermis being the mattress and epidermis representing the sheets. In order to have taught sheets, your mattress has to be firm and in good condition. Although the epidermis is the layer that we can physically see, it is made of mostly dead skin cells. As early as the late 20s, our skin cell turnover rate begins to slow. By the 40s, it has slowed immensely, giving you a rough dull complexion. The mattress, our dermis, is the live layer of our skin. This is where the production of new cells begin, the most important of which are collagen and elastin, along with important extra-cellular matrix components such as ceramides, lipids, hyaluronic acid, and glycosaminoglycans. These molecules are all key factors in the vitality and youthfulness of our skin, providing it with support and structure. The human body slows production of elastin around puberty and collagen replenishment slows in the early 30s and effectively halts at menopause. But, there’s hope! Cosmeceuticals from your plastic surgeon or dermatologist have the ability to penetrate all layers of the skin, thus being able to regenerate the production of collagen and elastin, support production of the extra-cellular matrix, correct previous damage, prevent future damage, and protect your existing healthy skin. Don’t waste money on products that will not be able to live up to their promises. Cosmetics simply cannot (by law) contain the same percentage of active ingredients, nor do they have the delivery system to be able to penetrate through the epidermis, limiting any product benefits to the outermost layer of the skin. Now, imagine how it will feel to have radiant and healthy skin! For a complete skincare consultation, please make an appointment to see me or one of my medical aestheticians. We will guide you toward better skincare products and healthier, more beautiful skin.

Do you want a personal relationship with your plastic surgeon? Someone who wants to get to know you as the wonderful, beautiful person you are? Are you searching for a physician who truly understands your aesthetic desires, the effect of body image on your self esteem, and wants you to be empowered to look and feel your best as a woman? I’m here to do just that. Hello, I am Dr. Alina Sholar, an Austin, TX Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and owner of Sage & Sweetgrass Wellness Spa, Inc and Sholar Center-Austin, PA. I love helping women (and men) discover the beauty within, then reflect it to the outside. I help heal women and teach them to love themselves so they are empowered to change the world! I perform Botox and fillers, as well as breast surgery, “mommy makeovers,” facial anti-aging surgery, facial cosmetic surgery, as well all other aspects of aesthetic cosmetic surgery. I am a Texas native who is proud to be a member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. I received my BS degree in Biomedical Science with Magna Cum Laude honors from Texas A&M University (Gig ’em!) in 1994 and an MD degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch on a full-tuition merit scholarship in 1999. There, I was awarded the prestigious Janet M. Glasgow Memorial Award and Achievement Citation for Women in Medicine. After completing a full five-year residency in General Surgery at the University of Louisville in 2004, I continued my study of surgery by

completing an additional residency in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Tennessee in 2006. I was granted Board Certification in 2008 from the American Board of Plastic Surgery. In addition to my more professional endeavors as an Austin, TX plastic surgeon, I am a medical illustrator and an accomplished artist, with personal artwork displayed at Sage & Sweetgrass. My medical artwork has been published in prestigious medical journals and textbooks such as the Annals of Plastic Surgery, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Journal, Annals of Surgical Oncology, and Cameron’s Current Surgical Therapy. This artistic talent and understanding of human anatomy is demonstrated in my ability to create beautiful and natural enhancements in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. One more important thing about me, I love my weenie dogs! Our rescued dachshunds capture my heart with each sweet puppy kiss! While no plastic surgeon can promise perfection, I can promise a commitment to obtaining the best possible result for the individual I am treating. I believe in first getting to know my patients. I spend a lot of time just talking with them, letting them be heard. Then, I spend a while educating my patients, as much as possible, about the procedure they are choosing, even drawing out their procedures on paper right in front of them, so they understand everything we are planning to do. When my patient is well informed and thoroughly understands the benefits and limitations of what can be achieved, she or he is more pleased with the final outcome. Our practice is very unique in terms of how much we provide for our patient pre and postoperatively, and you can be assured your experience here will be far beyond any other plastic surgery office around. I hope to not only show our patients how they can look better, but also to make them feel great on the inside, too. That’s why I think plastic surgery is such a great field of medicine to be in. It really is the medicine of being beautiful and living well. We’ll teach you how to love yourself beautiful!

For more information visit, www.serenitycreek.com or www.sageandsweetgrassspa.com

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Health & Beauty

INEVITABLE SIGNS OF AGES AND

WHAT TO DO ABOUT THEM Dr. Ling, of Innate Beauty, shares prevention tips and treatments to keep us looking our best

ast year, I lamented the loss of my mother’s muscles. Sure, I could have been worried about other signs of aging, such as osteoporosis, heart disease, or mental decline, but I focused on the markedly diminished size of her thighs as she sat next to me. After four decades of walking thousands of steps per day and lifting morbidly obese patients at a Houston medical center hospital, she retired two years ago. A year into her retirement, her muscles became lax, and her face a bit drawn. I thought, surely, now that she has all this time on her hands, she would be doing all sorts of activities to stay in shape and improve her social life. So, as any good daughter would, I expressed my concern about her impending death. Admittedly, after 16 years of medical practice, I’ve become quite adept at motivating people to improve their health. However, I didn’t have to use scare tactics on her…I simply squeezed her thigh and said, “Wow, your legs feel mushy.” Soon

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after, she became a member of Silver Sneakers, took swim aerobics, Zumba, and trained with weights for four hours every morning, six days a week. Granted, this type of 180 degree change is extremely rare. As the fine print reads on those late-night ads, these results are not typical. When I was practicing family medicine, I would ask patients if there were an activity that they had done one year ago that they were no longer able to do. We would then discuss a short and longterm plan to get them back to the previous level of activity. Now that I am in cosmetic medicine, I have the same approach with my patients regarding their appearance. Frequently, the discussion flows from external appearance to internal health. After all, the outward appearance is a reflection of the inner health. Let us discuss some of the most common concerns I encounter in my practice and what to do about them.

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BY DR. SHIRAT LING

WRINKLES Prevention: • Stay hydrated • Reduce stress with exercise • Get adequate sleep • Eat an anti-inflammatory diet • Apply and reapply sunblock with SPF 30+ • Use Vitamin C serums to prevent oxidative damage • Use alpha hydroxyl acids to increase the thickness of the skin Treatment: • Retinol cream to stimulate collagen production to fill in any lines or wrinkles • Microdermabrasion or chemical peels to exfoliate top layers and diminish the appearance of fine lines • Peptides to firm the skin and stimulate collagen and fibronectin production • Neurotoxin (Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin) to relax muscles of expression, in moderation • Dermal fillers plump up deeper wrinkles • Microneedling creates channels in the skin that stimulate collagen production with minimal recovery • CO2 fractional laser vaporizes deeper channels to stimulate collagen with a few days of sunburn and recovery

BROWN SPOTS Prevention: • Apply and reapply sunblock with SPF 30+ • Avoid hormonal fluctuations • Use Vitamin C serums to prevent oxidative damage Treatment: • Apply lightening creams that contain hydroquinone, kojic acid, or arbutin • Microdermabrasion or chemical peels reduce the appearance of superficial brown spots • Photofacials target deeper brown spots with monthly treatments • CO2 fractional laser vaporizes deeper channels to stimulate collagen with a few days of sunburn and recovery

LOST VOLUME Prevention: • Apply and reapply sunblock with SPF 30+ • Use Vitamin C serums to prevent oxidative damage • Sleep on your back (don’t crush your facial fat pads) • Avoid major fluctuations in weight • Avoid long-distance running • Weight train, it promotes bone strength (think foundation for the face and body) Treatment: • Dermal fillers (Belotero, Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, Sculptra, Voluma) are injected every 1-2 years to plump up the hollow, but not so much that you look like a different species • Platelet-rich plasma contains several growth factors and other cytokines that stimulate healing of bone and soft tissue • Fat transfer/grafting can plump up hollows but usually have to be over-injected initially, since the body likes to use fat as fuel; structural fat grafting, in which small amounts of fat are introduced in increments to enable blood vessel growth and incorporation of the fat into the existing tissue, is a much better method

away unwanted bits utilizes radio frequency to signal fat cell death and improve the appearance of cellulite and loose skin. This monthly treatment feels like a hot stone massage, and can be used on all parts of the body. Coolsculpting is limited to certain areas of the body, and depends on the laxity of the skin being treated; some nerve damage and pain has been reported with this technology, so Coolsculpting is not something I offer. • Smartlipo/liposuction physically removes the fat cells with surgery

• Trusculpt

Generally, when it comes to cosmetic improvements, most women do not need scare tactics to produce change. Everyone wants to look and feel their best, keep in mind that it all starts from the inside.

UNWANTED FAT Prevention: • Avoid major fluctuations in weight; be conscientious of intake and output • Exercise regularly and effectively; weight training is better than cardio to lose weight and build muscle • Be vigilant of hormonal changes that can contribute to weight gain Treatment: • Diet and exercise – crash dieting and other fads usually produce short-lived results. All of the following recommendations work best with proper diet and regular exercise. • Mesotherapy or Kybella injections can target small pockets of unwanted fat; several sessions are needed to sculpt

About the Author: Dr. Shirat Ling is the Physician ArtistTM at Innate Beauty Medical Spa. She has been in medical practice for 16 years and has performed over 9,500 CO2 fractional laser treatments and countless other medical cosmetic procedures. Her signature approach, utilizing natural-appearing enhancements, has helped countless clients become the sculpture they were meant to be.

For more information visit, www.innatebeauty.com

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Health & Beauty

PLASTIC SURGERY TAILORED TO MOMS

Baylor Scott & White gets you bathing suit ready with customized treatments for your specific needs

t’s bathing suit season and many women dread going to the pool this time of year. Oftentimes, our bodies have changed after having children. But, there are some options to consider for getting that pre-baby body back. Mommy makeovers have increased in popularity in the last few years as women realize that there are opportunities for surgery to help improve the after-effects that life-changing events like pregnancy, weight loss, and gravity can have on a woman’s body. Post-pregnancy, women can experience loose abdominal skin, stretch marks, deflated or sagging breasts, and a round stomach shape, more that exercise and good nutrition can correct. Susan Pike, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Round Rock specializing in the procedures used in mommy makeovers, explains these makeovers are a customizable combination of treatments that help women correct common issues that develop as a result of having children. “We help to restore the body as closely as possible to its more youthful condition,” said Dr. Pike. “Procedures are customized to the patient’s specific needs and desires, and can often include liposuction, thigh lifts, tummy tucks, in combination with breast augmentation, breast lift, or both. The patient and I meet and discuss her unique needs and what is achievable for her. Just as all women are different, each ‘mommy makeover’ is

a unique combination of procedures tailored to the patient’s needs.” Are you a good candidate for a mommy makeover? Good candidates are women who are finished having children, are fully recovered from pregnancy, are not currently breastfeeding, have had a stable weight for at least four to six months, and have a BMI of 30 or less. Recovery time depends on the procedures being done, and each individual’s level of fitness and wellness, but often, by undergoing multiple procedures in the same time period, patients can reduce their overall recovery time. “Every woman is different, and we enjoy working with her to create the body she has always wanted,” said Dr. Pike. “Because of the advanced procedures available to patients now, it’s possible to correct the things that have kept her from living the lifestyle she desires.”

BECAUSE OF THE ADVANCED PROCEDURES AVAILABLE TO PATIENTS NOW, IT’S POSSIBLE TO CORRECT THE THINGS THAT HAVE KEPT HER FROM LIVING THE LIFESTYLE SHE DESIRES.

*This information is intended for general knowledge and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Dr. Susan Pike is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and director of the Cosmetic Surgery Center and director of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Round Rock.

For more information, visit www.roundrock.sw.org

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MICHAELHEIM/BIGSTOCK.COM, MASTER1305/BIGSTOCK.COM

BY SUSAN PIKE, MD

Begin your Metamorphosis... Botox

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Skin Tightening Dermaplaning Photofacials PRP Belotero Juvederm Xeomin Dysport

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Microdermabrasion

Chemical peels Mesotherapy Dermapen Acne Rosacea Radiesse TruSculpt Sculptra TM

Get Sculpted by Dr. Shirat Ling, Austinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premiere Physician Artist

Innate Beauty

1611 South First Street Austin, TX 78704 512.656.5464 www.InnateBeauty.com

Mention this ad for 15% off your first procedure Schedule your consultation online anytime

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dining

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Chicon, A Casual Yet Elegant Restaurant, Makes a Home for Itself in East Austin

Co-Owners Ben Edgerton and Executive Chef Andrew Wiseheart set the table for taste, atmosphere, and a touch of approachable polish BY NICOLE CARBON PHOTOS BY MOLLY WINTERS

“

It’s been a fun couple of months,” says Co-Owner Ben Edgerton of his newest endeavor, with Co-Owner and Executive Chef Andrew Wiseheart, called Chicon. We all know and love the cool and comfortable ranch-like feel of Contigo; Chicon is it’s sister restaurant inspired by the same design and features – woods, metal, and leather – but with a downtown feel. Ben describes it best, “It’s like a sibling, they share the same DNA, but their uniqueness makes them different. Chicon is the younger sibling who moved to New York to attend art and design school, then came back to Austin.” It lends a slightly more elegant feel. Located in a former post office on East 6th and Chicon, expect to find a playful menu meant to be shared. Chef Wiseheart designed the menu with small plates and larger-format plates meant for sharing, like a “fun family-style meal.” A signature small plate is the Goat & Gnocchi inspired by Wiseheart’s West Texas roots, which had an emphasis on goat. He makes a rich tomato broth and adds pulled braised goat, gnocchi, parmesan, and seasons it with black pepper. Large-format plates labeled “To Share” include the Grilled Half Chicken served with dipping sauces, camp bread, and grilled green veggies. The 36-ounce T-Bone is also served with grilled greens and a healthy side of onion rings. Here, the cocktails are as creative as the menu items and are kitchen-inspired. Think fresh herbs, spices, and even charred red pepper used in their take on the Negroni, called the Jabroni. Campari and gin are used and sweet vermouth is swapped out for charred red pepper simple syrup to add a touch of sweetness. The New Delhi Mule, their take on a Moscow Mule, uses Indian spices, honey, and grapefruit along with ginger beer and vodka. Newly opened Chicon is a winner, or as Ben modestly says, “It’s an East Austin neighborhood spot, a casual place, to get together with good friends.”

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To recreate Chef Andrew Wiseheartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culinary excellence at home, try his recipe below:

CARROT HUMMUS WITH TOMATO DIP AND SWEET POTATO CHIPS Carrot Hummus: 5 Horse carrots 1 Head of garlic, halved 250g Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) Juice and zest of three lemons 160g Tomato dip (recipe below) Shaved yellow beets Shaved fennel Shaved celery Shaved carrot rounds Cilantro stems Sweet potato chips (recipe below) 1/ Cut the horse carrots into oblique cuts and roast with garlic facing down on sheet tray until carrots are soft. Season with oil and salt before roasting. 2/ When ready, put carrots and garlic in a food processor with salt, lemon juice, and zest. Pulse until well blended. Add in Tomato Dip and pulse more. 3/ Drizzle in EVOO and add water if necessary until smooth and it is the consistency of hummus.

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Tomato Dip 12 Tomatoes Salt TT (to taste) 40g Tarragon 100g Shallots EVOO (enough for a heavy drizzle) Canola oil (enough for a heavy drizzle) 1/ Cut tomatoes in quarters and lay across parchment paper evenly. 2/ Add cut shallots and tarragon and sprinkle across tomatoes. Lightly season with salt. 3/ Roast in oven at 150 degrees overnight. 4/ Finely chop tomatoes after being in oven overnight and season with EVOO and Canola oil.

Sweet Potatoes Chips 1 Sweet potato Salt TT 1/ Cut sweet potatoes with mandolin on setting two and fry at 275 degrees until potato turns golden. 2/Add to dehydrator and dehydrate for 24 hours at 160 degrees. 3/ Cover with tight lid and with dehydrating beans at the bottom.

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