Paragon Breast Care

Join Dr. Laura Hudson and Paragon Breast Care and Paragon Surgical Specialists staff for this year's Paint the Pit Road Wall Pink on October 1, 2024, at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Survivors, family members, and volunteers are welcome to sign up. Paint the Pit Road Wall Pink is held every year in celebration of breast cancer survivors and in preparation for the running of the Drive for the Cure 250 presented by BlueCross and BlueShield of North Carolina and the Bank of America ROVAL™ 400 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in the second weekend of October. In addition to painting, there is a short program where we are inspired by survivors and hear their stories that make this event so special, and again this year, we will hear from NASCAR Cup Series driver Erik Jones and his continued Windows of Hope program. CLICK HERE TO VOLUNTEER: https://bit.ly/4cHQhqB

For older adults, having a dog can be incredibly beneficial. 🐕 Dogs encourage regular physical activity, which is key to maintaining mobility and overall health as we age. Plus, a dog's companionship can reduce loneliness and provide a sense of purpose. Happy National Dog Day to all the senior dog owners out there!

Discovering a lump in your breast can be a frightening experience, but it’s important to remember that not all lumps are cancerous. A breast biopsy is a critical diagnostic tool that helps determine whether a breast lump is benign or malignant. At Paragon Breast Care, our surgeons are experts in performing breast biopsies with precision and care, using the latest techniques to ensure accurate results. A biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample from the lump, which is then examined under a microscope. Early detection of breast cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes, making timely diagnosis essential. If you’ve noticed a change in your breast, don’t delay—schedule a consultation with your medical provider and discuss your concerns. The team at Paragon Breast Care is here to provide the compassionate care you deserve.

General anesthesia is typically very safe. Most patients will tolerate general anesthesia without serious problems. But with any medication or medical procedure, you may experience some side effects. Here’s what to expect. https://bit.ly/3WPm6rz When you talk with your surgeon and anesthesiologist before the procedure, be sure to talk with them about your concerns and expectations. You should also discuss your:
- prior anesthesia experience
- health conditions
- medication use
- recreational drug use
Be sure to follow your presurgery instructions — including what you can or can’t eat and drink and medications you should or shouldn’t take. Following these instructions can help minimize some side effects of general anesthesia.

Swimming can be a highly beneficial, low-impact exercise, especially for those with varicose veins. Varicose veins, commonly found in the legs and feet, are caused by malfunctioning valves that allow blood to pool in the veins. While swimming won't eliminate varicose veins, it can enhance blood circulation, decrease swelling, and may relieve some of the symptoms associated with this condition (NOTE: always talk to your medical provider before beginning any new exercise routine).

Ha Uyen D**g, PA-C, is a distinguished member of our medical team. She assists patients as a part of the general surgery team and provides sclerotherapy treatments for Paragon Vein Care patients. Her undergraduate work includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology at UNC-Greensboro and a Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science at Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem. Ha Uyen earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Wingate University, Wingate, NC.

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Spider veins are smaller and thinner than varicose veins and typically appear on the face or legs. These tiny leg veins can be treated in our office with no downtime! Ask us about our current special for significant savings on your sclerotherapy treatment.

Celebrate National Avocado Day by indulging in this nutrient powerhouse! support heart health, improve digestion, can even help lower bad cholesterol levels and .

Although there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, there are several things you can do that may lower your likelihood of getting it. This is because certain breast cancer risk factors are related to personal or lifestyle behaviors, such as diet and physical activity. Other lifestyle-related risk factors include decisions about taking medicines that contain hormones. (American Cancer Society, https://bit.ly/3YpUawJ). Here are 5 ways to help protect your breast health.
1. Limit alcohol (it is best not to drink at all).
2. Maintain a healthy weight.
3. Be physically active and avoid time spent sitting.
4. Follow a healthy eating pattern.
5. Think carefully about using birth control with hormones and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Discuss your risk factors with your medical provider.
Early detection is so important in the fight against breast cancer. Please perform a monthly self-exam and talk with your medical provider about scheduling your annual mammogram (guidelines recommend starting at age 40).

A recent study examined how several lifestyle factors influenced late-life depression, dementia, and stroke risk and found that healthier lifestyles were linked to lower incidences of these conditions later in life. https://bit.ly/3LGLPgH

If you are age 40 or over, or if breast cancer runs in your family, please talk to your medical provider about annual mammograms.

Single-site gallbladder surgery is a robotic-assisted procedure that removes the gallbladder through a single incision in the belly button. The surgeons at Paragon Surgical Specialists perform single-site surgery, which can have several potential benefits, including:
- Minimal pain
- Fast recovery
- Short hospital stay
- Virtually scar-free results
- Lower rate of major complications

When facing a possible diagnosis of breast cancer, you'll have many questions. The Paragon Breast Care team is here to help get you answers. Our breast care team is here to help with diagnostic testing and surgical procedures - as well as help in healing for patients and their families. https://bit.ly/4aB8Qfi

A diagnosis of breast cancer can be overwhelming, but the clinical team of Paragon Breast Care is experienced in helping navigate treatment, healing, and recovery - not only for the patient but for the family and friends who provide critical support throughout the journey. Learn more about Paragon Breast Care surgical services in our video from Anthony Smith, MD. Please visit our website https://bit.ly/3S6qX5S

Did you know hormone imbalances (such as during pregnancy) and other risk factors can contribute to the development of varicose veins? We can help diagnose varicose veins and help treat the condition in our office.

Berry berry good! Fruits with antioxidants are tiny powerhouses of nutrition that can help the body repair itself. They also contain vitamin C, which has been shown to help rebuild collagen and soft tissue. Nutrition is a vital part of surgical recovery. Depending on the surgery, you may have some dietary restrictions. Talk to your surgical care team about how you can help heal yourself more effectively with healthy foods.

Paragon Vein Care offers Varithena as an option to treat varicose veins. Varithena is an FDA-approved prescription medicine that improves symptoms related to or caused by varicose veins and the appearance of varicose veins. The treatment takes about an hour, and most people only need a single treatment. However, additional treatment may be needed, depending on the number and size of veins being treated. Schedule your consultation to see if is right for you.

A few things to keep in mind no matter what type of surgery you require: don’t hesitate to ask questions, be honest about your medical conditions, and learn how to prepare for recovery. This article from WebMD shares pre-surgery steps to cut complication risks and help heal. See what you can do now to be ready for your procedure and help ease your recovery. https://wb.md/4bd3YNI

When taking vitamins or medications, drink more than just enough to get the pills down your throat. Drinking a full glass of water helps your body absorb water-soluble vitamins and moves medications through your esophagus. (WebMD)

Board-certified surgeon, Laura Hudson, MD, is a part of our distinguished surgical team. She specializes in breast surgery for cancer treatment and diagnostic procedures for breast cancer detection. Learn more about Dr. Hudson by visiting our website: https://bit.ly/3KUyNM7

Studies show that breast surgery scars can significantly impact a woman’s psychological and emotional recovery and quality of life after surgery because scars can impact a woman’s self-confidence, intimacy, and body image. Learn more about Hidden Scar Surgery offered at Paragon Breast Care. https://bit.ly/3KTBg9m

Six tips to help guard your colorectal health.

A member of the National Consortium of Breast Centers, Paragon Breast Care is the first practice of its kind in Concord and the Charlotte region. We provide comprehensive and cohesive care for women with breast cancer and other breast disorders. We combine comfort with state-of-the-art care and committed medical expertise from prevention and diagnosis to treatment and recovery. Paragon Breast Care surgeons utilize the most technologically advanced surgical techniques.

Did you know men are less likely than women to visit the doctor regularly? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men are about half as likely to visit the doctor for annual exams and preventive services. And only about 50% will stay up-to-date with their screenings. National Men's Health Month is a good reminder for guys to schedule their annual physicals and talk to their medical providers about any health concerns - including mental health. The top health concerns for men include:
❤️Heart Disease
🎗️Cancer
🫁Respiratory Diseases
🍬Diabetes
🧠Mental Health

Pain, heaviness, tiredness with or without swollen feet and ankles, and varicose veins can be signs of a more serious underlying disorder. Paragon Vein Care has a team of medical professionals who are experienced in diagnosing and treating vein conditions. We are one of the only vein care practices in the region, offering all of our services in the comfort of our office, eliminating the need for outpatient surgery and general anesthesia – even for more complex cases of varicose veins due to venous insufficiency. https://bit.ly/2DWjaBW