As we age, lower estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone levels can affect various aspects of our lives. The good news is that, through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), you can start to feel like yourself again.
Dr. Tracy Pfeifer, a double board-certified plastic surgeon, proudly offers a range of surgical and non-surgical treatments. She also believes beauty comes from within and wants to help her patients feel their absolute best. This is why she provides biological hormone therapy for men and women at Hamptons Plastic Surgery.
What Are Bioidentical Hormones?
A bioidentical hormone is genetically identical to naturally occurring hormones in the body. While bioidentical hormones are still extracted from a plant or animal source, your body perceives them as natural hormones it produces.
Bioidentical hormones may help restore balance after the body undergoes age-related changes. For example, bioidentical hormone therapy for menopause can alleviate many of the difficult symptoms women experience, such as hot flashes and night sweats.
For men, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can address unwanted effects of aging or hormonal imbalance, such as muscle loss, sleep problems, low mood, reduced libido, and hair loss.
Who Should Try Bioidentical Hormones?
Ideal candidates for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy in NYC are adults in their 40s or 50s who have begun to experience age-related changes to their bodies. These changes are related to fluctuating or unbalanced hormone levels and do not stem from pre-existing or underlying medical conditions.
Candidates should have good overall health and not have a history or elevated risk of:
- High blood pressure
- Breast cancer
- Heart or vascular disease
- Stroke
Dr. Pfeifer will meet with you to discuss your medical history and current symptoms to determine whether biological hormones could benefit you.
Expectations for Treatment
After a consultation with Dr. Pfeifer, she will assess your current hormone levels and determine which types of hormones you need. Every patient's bioidentical hormone therapy protocol is completely customized to their body.
After determining your needs, Dr. Pfeifer will develop a personalized care plan that includes bioidentical hormone pellets.
Bioidentical hormones can address a variety of concerns, including:
- Menopause symptoms
- Vaginal dryness
- Hot flashes
- Loss of interest in sex
- Brain fog
- Insomnia
- Weight gain
- Mood changes
For women, hormone pellets last three months, and for men, they last approximately five months. Dr. Pfeifer will also suggest lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes or exercise programs, to enhance results.
During follow-up appointments, she will discuss any side effects you experience and adjust your hormone dosages as needed. Patients always have access to Dr. Pfeifer's personal cell phone, so support is just a call away.
FAQs
What Side Effects Are Associated With Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones may cause some side effects, though many people tolerate them well. Common reactions include:
- Breast tenderness
- Bloating
- Headaches
- Mood changes
- Spotting between periods
Some individuals experience fatigue or slight nausea, especially when beginning treatment. Serious symptoms are less common but could include an increased risk of blood clots or cardiovascular issues, depending on a person's health history and dosage.
Dr. Pfeifer prioritizes regular monitoring and individualized dosing, both of which reduce the risk of negative reactions and ensure smooth treatment.
How Quickly Will I See Results From Bioidentical Hormone Therapy?
The timeframe for noticing results from bioidentical hormone therapy varies based on individual biology, dosage, and administration method.
Generally, patients begin observing improvements within two to four weeks of starting treatment. Initial benefits often include:
- Increased energy
- Enhanced mood
- Better sleep quality
- Decreased symptoms like hot flashes or night sweats
Some individuals experience immediate relief, while others might take several weeks or even months to feel significant changes. This is more likely if hormone imbalances were severe or chronic.
Full outcomes usually become apparent several months into therapy. Regular follow-ups with Dr. Pfeifer ensure dosages remain appropriate and effective.
How Long Can I Safely Use Bioidentical Hormone Therapy?
The duration for safely using bioidentical hormone therapy depends on your health profile, reasons for treatment, and ongoing medical evaluations.
Most patients can use bioidentical hormones safely for extended periods, provided regular monitoring and appropriate dosage adjustments are maintained. Some individuals use therapy indefinitely to manage persistent symptoms or maintain general wellness, while others may taper off after hormone levels stabilize.
Research suggests prolonged therapy remains safe when administered under careful medical supervision, including routine screenings and dosage evaluations.
Is Regular Blood Work Necessary During Bioidentical Hormone Therapy?
Regular blood work is a critical part of safe bioidentical hormone therapy management. These tests measure hormone levels and ensure they're within optimal ranges to avoid under- or over-treatment.
Blood tests are usually conducted before therapy starts, then frequently during the early stages to monitor the body's response and adjust dosages accurately. Once hormone levels stabilize, tests may become less frequent.
Regular testing helps identify potential side effects or health issues early, enabling prompt intervention. Blood monitoring also supports personalized care and ensures the treatment remains balanced, safe, and aligned with your changing wellness needs.
Why Choose Hamptons Plastic Surgery?
Patients choose Hamptons Plastic Surgery for the personalized care, exceptional outcomes, and genuine warmth provided by double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Tracy Pfeifer.
Recognized as a leader in aesthetic surgery by New York Magazine and Castle Connolly, Dr. Pfeifer combines advanced skills, artistic judgment, and unmatched integrity. She prioritizes patient education, safety, and unmatched results in a refined, welcoming environment at her Hamptons and Fifth Avenue offices.
Driven by a passion for helping patients feel confident and comfortable, Dr. Pfeifer's approachable manner and commitment to excellence make Hamptons Plastic Surgery a trusted choice for aesthetic procedures, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, and more.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are interested in learning more about bioidentical hormone therapy in NYC, please contact us today at Hamptons Plastic Surgery. Submit our online form or call (631) 653-6112 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pfeifer. We look forward to assisting you!