Hickory Living January 2023

MacAdam Smith Publisher mac@oasisluxuryhomes.com (484) 769-7445

Kathy

Sharon Simpson Advertising Director sharon@lncurrents.com (704) 677-9159

10225 Hickorywood Hill Ave., Unit A Huntersville, NC 28078 (484) 769-7445

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kathy Wheeler • Amy Casil

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY by Shane Greene Photography

Welcome to the January Issue And 2023!

By Kathy Wheeler

Happy New Year! As we begin 2023, I hope you take the time to look at the changes you want to make this year and the goals you want to reach. Health, happiness, and financial security are all good categories to focus on.

Exercise is a good place to start! It helps with weight-loss and improves your cardiovascular system and your mood. Find ways to get moving that you enjoy like dancing, hiking, or playing a sport. It doesn’t have to be a chore and can become an enjoyable social activity.

So many things play into being happy. Eating a healthy diet and getting enough sleep and exercise can all cause chemical reactions in the brain to improve your mood and decrease depression and anxiety. What you choose to focus on will affect your happiness, so choose wisely. Having a positive outlook and focusing on positive things are both healthy ways to approach life’s problems. Looking at the good in any situation is preferable to a negative rhetoric that plays over and over in your

mind. I’m not saying to stick your head in the sand and ignore the obvious but mitigate the negative quickly—both physically and mentally. Don’t dwell on it! If you are in a situation that you can’t change due to circumstances, then accept the situation until you can change it. Knowing that it is a temporary situation until you can do better becomes light at the end of the tunnel. Become less isolated by starting a new hobby or joining a class where you meet new friends. Be kind to others and be willing to lend a helping hand when you can. I think very few people who choose to focus only on themselves are happy.

Finances are as much about what you keep as what you make. Creating a budget and cutting expenses can help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Realize that impulse buys rarely ever work out to your advantage. Yes, that new blouse is beautiful but if you have nothing to wear with it, it will just take up space or cost you more money to complete the outfit. Start a side gig to add to your income. Pay down debts

that have high interest rates first, and start regularly saving for your future.

To start the year off, we are focusing solely on businesses in Hickory Living Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology is our cover story. They offer patients cutting-edge treatment in dermatology, plastic surgery, and esthetic services. Their article begins on page 10. We are featuring one of our Best of the Foothills’ winners on page 14. Bumblebee Interiors is a full-service interior design business that was voted the readers’ choice three years in a row. Our business spotlight steps outside the Hickory area to feature Island Life Real Estate. Two real estate agents from Hickory, who are now located in Oak Island, are happy to help you with your coastal purchases. You will find their story on page 18.

Thank you for reading the January issue of Hickory Living! We wish you much health, happiness, and prosperity in 2023. Happy New Year!

©iStockphoto.com | Tatiana Buzmakova

on the cover

Physician-Owned and Patient-Focused

By Amy Casil | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

Did you know that your skin is your body’s largest organ? It helps you to maintain your body temperature and protects you against infections. The way our skin looks is important to the way we interact with others and the way we feel about ourselves. But the way our skin protects our health and wellbeing could be even more important. Piedmont Plastic Surgery and Dermatology (PPSD) and its highly-qualified staff offer many options for people who are seeking to improve their appearance, and they also provide crucial, cutting-edge services and treat-

ments to protect your largest organ and prevent and cure disease.

SKIN CANCER LEADERSHIP AT PPSD

Dr. Charles Johnson has 26 years of experience as a board-certified dermatologist and micrographic dermatologic surgeon.

He discussed the importance of skin cancer prevention and treatment with me.

He also shared that this year, he became one of the first dermatologists to be certified in micrographic dermatologic surgery with expertise in Mohs surgery and cutaneous oncology by the American Board

Photos:

On the cover–PPSD Hickory Tate offices’ board-certified plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and physician assistants. Left to right: Dr. Charles Johnson, Dr. Dori Hunt, Michael Sabol PA-C, Dr. George Magel, Dr. Bethany Bergamo, Zachary Greer PA-C, Dr. Rosiane Roeder, Dr. Gregory Swank, Dr. Steven Siciliano, and Jessica Curtis-Yount PA-C.

Above–Board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Siciliano, Dr. Roeder, and Dr. Swank.

of Dermatology. This Diplomate Certification is much more than an honor. Dr. Johnson has completed over 40,000 cases of Mohs surgery for skin cancer, and he was in the first group of highly-qualified dermatologists and skin cancer experts to take and pass the micrographic dermatologic surgery exam.

Sometimes people overlook the health impact of skin cancer in favor of cosmetic appearance but, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one out of every five people in the U.S. will develop skin cancer by age 70. Mohs surgery is 97% to 100% effective in treating non-melanoma skin cancers, Dr. Johnson told me. Mohs surgery is a specialized procedure that removes skin cancer and all of its roots, layer by layer. The tissue is examined under a microscope to ensure that all of the cancer is removed. This type of surgery removes cancer cells while preserving as much healthy skin tissue as possible. Dr. Johnson also explained that patients can feel confident about having Mohs surgery with a board-certified Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon because the individual functions as both the surgeon and the pathologist ensuring 100% continuity of care in the complete removal of the entire skin cancer.

Healthy skin that is cancer-free is attractive skin. PPSD’s empathetic, highly-qualified, professional staff can meet health needs as well as aesthetic goals and objectives for a beautiful appearance.

INDIVIDUALIZED TREATMENT AND MORE OPTIONS

Dr. Dori Hunt told me that the best new development at PPSD this year has been the dramatic decrease in COVID cases and the relief of being able to get back to normal while maintaining patient safety. “The supply chain also improved,” Dr. Hunt said, “and now offers better patient access to the services and products they need and want to maintain their skin health.”

Learning about the many options that patients have to improve their appearance, I asked Dr. Hunt which procedure PPSD offers that the public might not be familiar with but which offers a lot of benefits. She said, “The procedure I’m most excited about is PRP (platelet rich plasma). PRP uses platelets and plasma that are extracted from the patient’s own blood. It can provide benefits in facial rejuvenation and hair loss treatment. For example, platelet rich plasma is meticulously injected into the scalp, which can stimulate the hair follicles to treat thinning or balding areas.”

Dr. Hunt said she would always tell a new patient there are usually lots of treatment options and to keep an open mind about the options that are available to them to improve their appearance. She also wants to urge patients to seek an individual consultation with a professional at PPSD because, “despite

Photos, top to bottom:

• Mohs surgeon, Dr. Charles Johnson, examines skin tissue samples to check for clearance of skin cancer.

• Board-certified dermatologists, Drs. Hunt, Magel, and Bergamo discuss the latest and upcoming cosmetic products and procedures.

• Jessica Curtis-Yount, PA-C, performing minor office procedures during a routine annual skin check.

Photos, top to bottom:

• Dr. Roeder seen in one of PPSD’s Hickory ORs

• Dr. Swank with his surgical team in PPSD’s Hickory OR.

• Dr. Siciliano consulting with a patient about breast augmentation surgery.

a plethora of information on the web, there is nothing like seeking professional help from someone who treats skin for a living.”

TRENDS IN PLASTIC SURGERY

When I spoke with Dr. Rosie Roeder at Piedmont Plastic Surgery and Dermatology, she explained that the most relevant and interesting new trend in plastic surgery is an understanding that beauty comes in different shapes and forms.

Dr. Roeder takes time to listen to what patients want and need. She said her ultimate goal is to understand who her patient is as a person, and what their definition of beauty is. She said, “If, with my skill set, we can achieve what the patient wants and needs for their aesthetic goals, we can move forward.” When I asked her what she would say to someone who’s considering cosmetic or plastic surgery, she said, “Plastic surgery can be extremely empowering. It can change your life and it should change it for the better.”

Speaking with Dr. Roeder, it is clear that she greatly values the trust and confidence that patients have placed in her skills and in the physician-owned practice at PPSD overall. She encourages all patients to research any procedures that they may be interested in as much as possible. Patients can feel confident that when they’re visiting PPSD and considering any procedure, they’re working with people who have treated friends and family and who share their values.

“Everyone at PPSD takes pride in their work,” Dr. Roeder said, “and they also have a lot of pride in being residents in our community. We not only invest in the wellbeing of our patients, we also support local hospitals, charities, and schools in Hickory and the surrounding areas.”

ESTHETIC SERVICES AT PPSD

I learned many new things about skin care at home and nonsurgical treatments to improve appearance from speaking with Melanie Herman, a highly-qualified and experienced esthetician with PPSD. I asked Melanie what nonsurgical treatments people could get to improve their skin and reduce signs of aging. She said, “I like to educate patients about their skin care. The best result is they become more knowledgeable so they not only receive treatments at the clinic but can continue skin care at home.”

Melanie explained one helpful procedure: HydraFacials. “These treatments are similar to the original type of microdermabrasion,” she said, while explaining that the process was gentler and could serve different esthetic purposes. HydraFacials can help with acne and can improve dull, con-

gested skin. When I asked Melanie what her top three current esthetics services were, she quickly said, “HydraFacial, microneedling, and chemical peels.” Each of these treatments provides great changes in the skin that can produce increasingly better results over time.

As one example, three treatments with microneedling can provide significant improvement in the appearance of acne or other types of scarring. Melanie explained that microneedling causes tiny injuries to the skin. In response, the skin produces collagen and elastin that can smooth skin texture.

Photos:

Left–Esthetician Melanie Herman performing a microneedling procedure.

A DEDICATED, PHYSICIAN-OWNED PRACTICE

Speaking with the practice leaders and healthcare professionals at Piedmont Plastic Surgery and Dermatology, each exemplified the highest standards in ethical, empathetic services for patients. I realized how important it is that the practice is owned by the doctors who provide care, thus creating an environment of genuine caring and excellent results in protecting skin health and enhancing beauty and personal appearance through surgical and non-surgical methods.

315 19th St. SE, Hickory, NC 28602 ppsd.com

Building 100: 828.325.9849

Charles Johnson, MD; Gregory Swank, MD, FACS; Steven Siciliano, MD; Rosiane Roeder, MD, FACS; and Jessica Curtis-Yount, PA-C

Building 200: 828.328.3500

Dori Hunt, MD; Bethany Bergamo, MD; George Magel, MD; Zachary Greer, PA-C; and Michael Sabol, PA-C

Featuring one of our Best of the Foothills Winners Bumblebee Interiors, LLC has won Best Interior Design three years in a row!

From the artwork on your walls to the flow of a room, interior design not only serves to help a home function well but it actually affects the way you feel emotionally. For some people, clutter is upsetting, while others are comforted by surrounding themselves with lots of things they love. A home should be a place that inspires you and a refuge where you spend time relaxing. It should seamlessly merge the design styles of all who live there. Interior designer Donna Price, owner of Bumblebee Interiors, has a master’s degree in psychology…literally. I can’t think of anyone better to design a room or workspace that is functional, esthetically pleasing, and comfortable! Apparently, our readers agree because Bumblebee Interiors was voted Best Interior Design of the Foothills in 2020, 2021, and 2022.

So, whether you are building a new home, renovating an existing home, or just redecorating, it is worth hiring an interior designer to help you. Donna works with sub-contractors to do full kitchen and bathroom renovations, move walls, or whatever needs to be done. She especially enjoys working on the new builds where her experience can help the flow of the home. “Where architects focus on the structural soundness and exterior of a home, I look at the plans for furniture placement, flow, and where important things will go, like the TV. Many times, I can make improvements that serve the customer better,” she said.

Bumblebee Interiors opened in 2002 in Viewmont and tripled the size of their building in 2008 to become a fullservice interior design business providing everything for your home and business. They offer furniture, window treatments, art and accessories, wallpaper, light fixtures, fabrics, and of course, interior design services. Bumblebee Interiors employs two interior designers, offering both residential and commercial design. And if you are looking for some inspiration, stop by their retail store where two design assistants will help you choose the perfect piece of art or furniture to complete your own design!

2945 N Center St • Hickory, NC 28601 • 828-431-2233

Top to bottom: Bumblebee Interiors retail store • Donna Price and her team offers residential and commercial design services.

business spotlight

Live Where You Love

By Kathy Wheeler | Photos provided

This time of the year, many of us are thinking about visiting or moving to a warmer climate. We are very blessed to live in a state where we aren’t far from a beach, and whether you are looking to purchase a home on the coast to relocate, or for a second home, a vacation home, or an investment property, Island Life Real Estate can help you find the perfect home on the Brunswick Islands of North Carolina. Broker/Realtors April Annas and Mandy Lankford are Hickory area natives who now live in Oak Island and own Island Life Real Estate. What better people to help you with your coastal home search than realtors who are familiar with your hometown AND the coast!

About the Agents April was raised in a hard-working

family in the Hickory area and learned the value of integrity and teamwork at a young age. As a mother, she juggled both family and a construction business. As her family and business grew, she discovered that she had a natural eye for design, a love for the real estate industry, and a strong desire to help make dreams come true.

After years of vacationing and owning homes along the Carolina coast, April and her family decided to officially call Oak Island home. She now uses her years of experience and knowledge of the Brunswick Islands to help others live where they love. As a multi-million dollar sales/producer, April is invested and committed to helping each of her clients find their dream home and discover all that island life has to offer.

Photos:

Left–Broker/Realtors Mandy Lankford and April Annas

Opposite page: In a gated community on Sunset Beach, this property comes fully furnished with all the bells and whistles. From marsh and intracoastal views to ocean views, this home offers amazing views from every angle. Located at 1508 Riverside Drive, Sunset Beach, NC 28468 in the community of Ocean Club Estates, it is listed for $1,599,000.00.

Mandy started her real estate journey in 2016 as an unlicensed assistant in Hickory. During that first year, she became a licensed assistant and then quickly outgrew that position. She began working with clients as a buyer’s agent and is now a multi-million dollar producing agent.

Mandy and her family had vacationed in Oak Island for ten years. In 2020, her husband’s job-transfer led their family to the North Carolina coast and allowed them to settle in Oak Island permanently—a place they both love.

As a full-service broker, Mandy’s dedication to working together with clients toward one goal has contributed to her success.

Why the Brunswick Islands?

The Brunswick Islands include Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle, Holden Beach, Oak Island, and Bald Head Island. On these islands you will find pristine, uncrowded beaches, a small-town feel that is more charming and authentic and less of a tourist town. The islands are rich in historical attractions with museums and light houses to explore, and the seafood