Best of the Pines 2021 – It’s a ‘Full House’ at the Laser Institute of Pinehurst!

The Laser Institute of Pinehurst has been so happy to serve its patients in the Pinehurst, N.C. community for the last 15 Best of The Pines 2021 years! Schedule an appointment, come into our ‘full house’ of anti-aging, wellness and skincare and work with Dr. Melley & our team to create a skincare and wellness plan that works for you. Your time at our office is more than just a treatment – from the moment you enter our doors, our goal is to deliver a one-of-a-kind experience that delivers lasting results that you are happy with. 

Whether you are interested in a simple facial, injectables like Botox to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, a consultation on treatment options to treat Rosacea, Lesions or Spider Veins or a body contouring consultation to learn about options we have to remove excess fat and shape those hard to tackle areas – we are here to help you determine your best treatment options to attain maximum health and wellness. 

We are honored to be a part of this years ‘Best of the Pines’. Please vote for us at the link below and vote for us in the following categories: 

  • Best Place for Injectables and fillers
  • Best Place for a facial
  • Best Place to purchase alternative medicine

VOTE NOW

Thank you so much for allowing us to be a part of your community and Pinehurst, N.C.’s dermatological leader for the past 15 years! We are honored to be listed as one of the premier Dermatology practice’s in Pinehurst and are looking forward to serving our patients and community for many years to come.

Flu Season

The flu and cold season have hit Moore County very hard this year and now the threat of an outbreak of the Coronavirus or COVID-19 is apparent. At The Laser Institute of Pinehurst, we have always taken infection control throughout the year and flu season very seriously. We have been very cognizant of how easily infections are spread.  Now with the threat of COVID-19 we are reaffirming our dedication to keeping our office free of infections.

All of us can do our part to keep the threat of infections at bay. Our office is cleaned daily and the exam rooms, phones and community surfaces are wiped down regularly through-out the day. We encourage employees and clients to stay home when they are not feeling well and take this time to regain their health and avoid spreading any potential germs to others.

Taking Proper prevention and control measures is imperative. Everyone can join in by:

  1. Washing hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  2. Using hand sanitizer that contains 60% alcohol if water is not available.
  3. Avoiding hand shaking.
  4. Covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze with your arm or tissue and disposing of the tissue properly.
  5. Avoiding contact with people who are sick.
  6. Avoid all non-essential travel.
  7. Staying home and self-quarantining if you are sick.
  8. Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces regularly including desks, keyboards, phones, sink handles and door handles.

Additionally, it is the responsibility of each person to optimize their immune function and avoid the risk of getting sick. Proper nutrition, exercise, sleep and hydration all contribute to boosting our immune system. Low levels of Vitamin D can be associated with an increased risk of viral respiratory infections. Make sure that you are taking adequate doses of Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Multi-Vitamins and anti-viral supplements to help boost your natural defenses against environmental illnesses.

Be sensible, avoid risky situations and stay safe.

Ofelia N Melley MD and the Staff at The Laser Institute of Pinehurst

Journey to Optimal Health

We are already a few months into 2020.  Have you been sticking to your new year’s resolutions?  If not, there is still time to start making changes toward a healthier lifestyle.  Our providers at The Laser Institute of Pinehurst are available to help you reach your goals.  With today’s technological advancements and programs, looking and feeling your best is well within reach. 

Rid Your Body of Toxins The Right Way

If you have tried to detox on your own but did not get the results you hoped for, it is time to turn to the experts.  While detox diets claim to cleanse your body of toxins, they are not sustainable and could lead to serious health problems. 

Our trained professionals recommend Core Restore from Ortho Molecular as the best detox program available.  More than just a diet, Core Restore is a comprehensive 7- or 14-day diet, lifestyle and nutrient wellness program created to remove toxins, prevent future toxin buildup and improve energy levels.  At the end of the program, your body will be better equipped to continue on your path to a healthier way of living.

At The Laser Institute of Pinehurst, we offer other wellness and anti-aging remedies geared toward maintaining a well-balanced lifestyle.  These include:

Wellness Treatments

We will customize a program designed to reach your individual goals while delivering long-lasting results.  Our wellness treatments consist of:

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):  Relieves menopause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness with medication
  • Medical Weight Loss: Doctor supervised program with diet, fitness and healthy behavior goals
  • Nutrient IV Therapy:  Provides your body with vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream
  • Detoxification programs: Eliminates toxins from the liver, kidneys, and other areas of the body

Laser Treatments

Improve your skin with resurfacing techniques creating new skin cells for a younger looking you.  

We suggest laser treatments for:

  • Hair Removal:  Erase unwanted hair from the face, leg, chin, back and other areas
  • Tattoo Removal:  Say good-bye to tattoos with fully or partial elimination
  • Skin Tightening:  A non-invasive and non-surgical approach to firmer skin
  • Skin Rejuvenation:  Reduce wrinkles, fine lines and scars
  • Acne:  Uses laser light beams to lessen scars due to previous acne outbreaks

Aesthetic Treatments

Get the look you want with the most effective cosmetic treatments on the market.  At your consultation, our doctors will recommend the best option based on your skin type and overall desired outcome.  Consider the following:

  • Neuromuscular Blockers:  BOTOX and Dysport are injectable treatments for temporary wrinkle removal
  • Fillers:  We recommend hyaluronic acid Restylane and Juvederm as ideal dermal fillers to plump up the skin and reduce the look of wrinkles
  • Kybella:  The only FDA-approved injectable that destroys fat cells under the chin
  • Facial Treatments:  From facials to chemical peels, microneedling to microdermabration and hydrafacials, we offer the latest medical spa treatments for the face and neck
  • Microblading:  Improves the shape or density of your eyebrows

Interested in beginning your journey to optimal health?  Schedule a consultation with The Laser Institute of Pinehurst today to discuss your goals and how we can help you achieve them.  Call 910-295-1130 or contact us here (links to https://pinehurstlaser.com/Contact-Us).  We look forward to meeting you!

Restore your Youthful Glow with TempSure and Pelleve

Collagen is a natural part of our skin’s structural compound that helps give it a natural glow and maintains elasticity. As we age, the collagen levels in our skin begin to deplete which can lead to fine lines and wrinkles. Many people wish that they could turn back the clock in order to have younger looking skin but don’t want to deal with the risks of surgery and a lengthy recovery. Dr. Melley provides treatments such as Pelleve and TempSure at The Laser Institute of Pinehurst, which can give your skin a smoother, healthier look and help restore your confidence by triggering your body to produce more collagen.

TempSure and Pelleve are both radiofrequency (RF) treatments. They are a safe and non-invasive way to help your skin counteract the effects of aging without surgery. In addition to smoothing wrinkles, RF treatments can also treat unsightly veins, facial redness, or cellulite. Each treatment sessions lasts between 30-60 minutes. The results are usually seen within the first 48 hours after treatment. Most commonly, patients receive at least 3-5 RF treatments roughly 4 weeks apart. This helps the body continue the production of new collagen for months afterward.

Pelleve is one of the RF treatments used by Dr. Melley to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. During a Pelleve treatment, radiofrequency energy is used to comfortably heat to the dermis which triggers your body to begin the natural healing process and collagen production. Dr. Melley uses a “GlideSafe” Pelleve handpiece to safely deliver RF energy to delicate areas such as the thinner skin around the eyes.

TempSure, another type of RF treatment offered at The Laser Institute of Pinehurst, is a new, gentle treatment that minimizes the signs of aging and tightens skin. TempSure can also treat cellulite! During a TempSure treatment the skin’s temperature is safely increased for a specific period of time which initiates the body’s healing response. The new collagen fibers that are produced will be more densely organized to give your skin a tighter, smoother appearance.

Radiofrequency treatments can also be combined with additional skincare treatments to yield the best results. A consultation with Dr. Melley will determine if combination treatments are necessary for the patient’s ultimate aesthetic goal. Both Pelleve and TempSure can improve the appearance and texture of your skin and counteract the natural signs of aging. However, it is recommended to establish a healthy skincare regimen that protects you from harmful UV rays and sun damage that can prematurely age the skin. The experts at The Laser Institute of Pinehurst can tailor a skin rejuvenation program that suits your needs and goals. Learn more about how RF treatments can benefit you and help you achieve younger looking skin at pinehurstlaser.com/Lasers or call 910-295-1130 today to schedule your consultation!

Keeping up with the Latest Technology

Dr. Ofelia Melley, founder of The Laser Institute of Pinehurst, understands the importance of keeping up with the latest technology and often attends international meetings to study the latest cutting-edge technologies in cosmetic skin treatments. Last month, Dr. Melley attended the Controversies & Conversations in Laser & Cosmetic Surgery, an advanced symposium focusing on the efficacy, risks and marketing of the latest technology in cutaneous and cosmetic surgery. The symposium, run by renowned physicians Drs. Arndt, Dover, Alam and Anderson, offered Dr. Melley the opportunity to bring the latest techniques to her patients so as to provide them with the best results. The meeting covered topics ranging from skin tightening, fractional laser treatments, and injections like Botox.

By keeping up with the latest technology, Dr. Melley can provide optimum treatments for each patient. Whether for laser tattoo removal, body contouring, microblading or weight loss, her goal is to provide patients with the most effective skin care for every patient.

PicoSure, one of the most advanced laser treatment systems available for tattoo removal and skin rejuvenation, is an example of the cutting-edge technology in use at The Laser Institute of Pinehurst. PicoSure delivers energy in trillionths of a second, causing the tiny particles that make up tattoo pigments to shatter and disperse while keeping the surrounding skin safe from damage.

Dr. Melley also offers the latest injectable filler products in the Juvederm and Restylane families as well as cutting-edge body contouring devices such as SculpSure by Cynosure. In addition, The Laser Institute of Pinehurst offers a customized weight loss program that includes personal medical counseling from skilled providers. Caring staff will monitor your progress and make the necessary adjustments that will allow you to best achieve your short and long-term goals. Learn more about which weight loss program is right for you at pinehurstlaser.com/Weight-Loss or call 910-295-1130 today to schedule your consultation!

Vitamins and supplements that will help you along

Now that you are on your way to maintaining an ideal weight with a healthy diet and regular exercise, it is important to consider what else you can do to benefit your new lifestyle. Although you may have incorporated protein rich foods and colorful vegetables, supplements can help you bridge the gap. Studies show that taking certain vitamins on a daily basis can help you get the nutrients your diet may not be providing and also lower the risk of certain diseases.

There are many supplements available to you but weeding through them and deciding which ones may complement your diet can be an overwhelming and confusing task. Discussing what is right for you with your provider at The Laser Institute of Pinehurst can add some welcome health benefits. As with any change pertaining to your health, it is important to consult a physician before beginning a vitamin regimen as some supplements could interact with medications you may be taking. Our doctor will be able to help you decide what vitamins or supplements are best for you based on your overall health.

CoQ10 – CoQ10 is an important naturally occurring nutrient that protects the mitochondria in our cells from free radical damage. It is significantly reduced by many medications. Supplementation will help with energy and weight loss.

Cinnamon Bark – Cinnamon Bark will help with regulating your sugar levels, insulin levels and will help improve your lipid profile. Make sure you are purchasing only organically grown Cinnamon Bark.

Matcha – Matcha, or Green Tea, as it is more commonly known, contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a natural antioxidant. Studies show that Green Tea supplements can help maintain cardiovascular and metabolic health. It will also help with weight loss.

Omega-3 – Omega-3 Fatty Acids are essential for cell function, blood clotting and artery health to name a few. There are three main fatty acids: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Because our bodies cannot create these fatty acids from scratch, we must rely on food and supplements to be sure that we are getting the recommended dosage of Omega-3s. Studies show that, for most, two servings of Omega-3s a week can help lower the risk of heart disease and improve the “good” cholesterol levels (HDL) while lowering the “bad” cholesterol (LDL).

Protein – Protein supplements can promote muscle health by helping muscles recover after an intense workout and also promote bone health. If you are not getting all the protein necessary through your diet, whey and casein protein powders are a great source. Most commonly mixed into water to create a protein shake, these powders can contain some lactose so you should consult your doctor before taking them if you are lactose intolerant.

Calcium – Calcium, which is abundant in foods such as green beans, broccoli and even figs, is important for bone and heart health. Taking Calcium supplements can help combat deterioration of bone density and lower your risk or developing Osteoporosis.

Vitamin D – Vitamin D, which can be absorbed through the skin via sunlight and metabolized by the liver, is important for cardiovascular health and lung function. Studies show that Vitamin D can support immune system health and help in regulation. Vitamin D assists in glucose control and is essential for normal insulin levels.

Probiotics – Probiotics can affect digestive health by promoting “friendly bacteria” in the digestive system and can assist in the absorption of nutrients. Probiotics have been found to improve the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and promote bowel regularity.

B Vitamins – B vitamins are beneficial for the body’s nerve and blood cell health and also prevent certain types of anemia. B vitamins are essential for glucose regulation, carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism.

Understanding how to maintain healthy weight loss and achieve ideal nutrition can be a challenge. At The Laser Institute of Pinehurst, we offer a customized weight loss program that includes personal medical counseling from our providers. We will monitor your progress and make the necessary adjustments that will allow you to best achieve your short and long term goals. Learn more about the weight loss programs we offer at pinehurstlaser.com/Weight-Loss or call our office at 910-920-9411 today to schedule your complimentary consultation!

How to Determine Adequate Daily Protein Intake

Weight Loss, Pinhurst NC

As we continue our journey towards a healthier lifestyle, we have come to the discussion of protein intake. There are many questions surrounding this topic – “How much protein is too much?” “What food contains large amounts of protein?” “How much protein is too little?” etc. Before determining the amount of protein you should be eating, you must first take into account how often you exercise and if your goal is to lose weight or maintain.

You Exercise Often and Want to Lose Weight

If you are looking to lose weight and you are exercising on a regular basis, protein is a key ingredient to incorporate in your diet to help sustain your strength for your workouts. According to Women’s Health Magazine, to calculate how much protein you should be eating simply divide your weight in pounds by  2.2 to get your weight in kilograms, as an active person (workouts 4 or more times a week) multiply the number by 1.2 for the minimum amount of protein you should be eating.

You Want to Maintain

According to Body Builder.com the daily minimum protein intake recommended by the National Institutes of Health is 0.36 grams per pound for a sedentary person. So to calculate how much protein you should consume each day to maintain your weight multiply you weight in pounds by .36.

The most common source of protein can be found in meats such as poultry, pork, beef, fish etc. However, large amounts of protein can also be found in eggs, quinoa, lentils, yogurt, certain vegetables, peanut butter and many other foods. This helps when you have special dietary needs that do not allow meat.

Sometimes, in a weight loss journey, you can greatly benefit from having help. At the Laser Institute of Pinehurst, we offer a customized weight loss program that includes personal medical counseling from our providers. We will monitor your progress and make the necessary adjustments that will allow you to best achieve your short and long term goals. Learn more about the weight loss programs we offer at pinehurstlaser.com/Weight-Loss or call our office at 910-920-9411 today to schedule your complimentary consultation!

Never Underestimate the Importance of Brightly Colored Vegetables!

Weight Loss, Pinehurst, NC

As discussed in our last blog, the first step to a healthier you is determining your ideal, healthy body weight and how to calculate it. The next step is changing your eating habits in order to consume the correct balanced nutrients to assist in your weight loss journey. While we have been taught that all vegetables are good for you (when portioned correctly) and should be eaten every day, there are some that benefit our overall health more than others, such as brightly colored vegetables. In addition to making for colorful meals, adding a variety of color on you plate gives you a more complete set of important nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Below, we have outlined what each bright color of vegetable means, how it benefits you, and what it contains.

  • Red Vegetables, such as beets, red onions and tomatoes are good sources of vitamins A and C and assist in heart and eye health and may lower risk of developing cancer.
  • Yellow Vegetables, such as corn and yellow summer squash have lutein and zeaxanthin. Lutein and zeaxanthin are both pigments that fight free radicals that can damage your eyes. Yellow bell peppers contain vitamin C, while spaghetti squash contains vitamin A.
  • Orange Vegetables, such as carrots, pumpkins and sweet potatoes all contain vitamin A and promote healthy skin as well as boosts the immune system. Sweet potatoes also contain potassium.
  • Green Vegetables, such as artichokes are a good source of fiber, while spinach and asparagus contain folate. According to the CDC, folate may help prevent birth defects. Green leafy vegetables usually have high levels of vitamin K.
  • White Vegetables, such as cauliflower and mushrooms can provide a great source of both vitamin C and folate. In the case of mushrooms, they can be the only vegetable to contain vitamin D, an important dietary nutrient for one’s immune system, bones, teeth and energy level.
  • Purple Vegetables, such as eggplant and purple potatoes are filled with antioxidants that work to improve memory and urinary tract health.

According to the Harvard School of Public Health, the recommended dose for vegetables is 2 ½ cups per day.

Determining a specific diet that is right for you and your individual weight loss goals can be overwhelming. The Laser Institute of Pinehurst offers individual diet plans created by our clinicians, medical staff and health coaches. Each diet is specifically tailored for the patient’s goals in mind. Learn more about the weight loss programs we offer at pinehurstlaser.com/Weight-Loss or call our office at 910-920-9411 today to schedule your complimentary consultation!

New Year Resolution: Healthy Living

Happy 2018! The New Year is here and with it comes resolutions and goals that mostly center on self-improvement and healthy living. Unfortunately, many dive right into dieting and extreme exercise without taking the time to research the best ways to go about it and what their ideal healthy weight is. This often times leads to a broken diet and an abandoned gym membership.

To achieve your goals you must understand the basic facts about healthy living and that it has no end date, but is a lifestyle change. The main points to know are as follows:

  1. your ideal, healthy weight and how to calculate it,
  2. why incorporating brightly colored vegetables into your diet is beneficial,
  3. adequate daily protein intake,
  4. recommended exercise,
  5. vitamins and supplements that will help you along

Each person has a different “healthy weight” which is based on their BMI (Body Mass Index). This can be determined using a BMI calculator. Once you determine your healthy weight the next step is putting together a diet that incorporates all the right foods and their correct portions. Vegetables are important to any diet as they are bursting with nutrients essential to fuel your body. Brightly colored vegetables contain not only the nutrients found in all vegetables, but powerful antioxidants that help remove potentially damaging oxidizing agents in the body. Next, according to Harvard Health, in order to determine your Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein, simply multiply your weight in pounds by 0.36 or refer to an online protein calculator that allows you to enter your activity level. Make sure to incorporate at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least 5 times a week. If your diet does not include all the recommended vitamins and minerals, consider supplements after you consult with your primary care physician. Certain supplements may interact with any medications you are currently taking.

Most often, with a healthier lifestyle comes healthier skin! However, sometimes your skin just needs that extra push, call our office at 910.295.1130 today to schedule your complimentary consultation!