BEAUTY

LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER SUSAN GONZALES ON TAKING TIME TO PAMPER HERSELF AND RECENTER

BY: SUSAN GONZALES P H O T O S B Y : LILLIAN REITZ

As an on-the-go, 36-year-old mother of two, there is not much time for pampering and luxury. I am a woman with many hats, and they’re constantly changing. I thrive in controlling my world of chaos, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. If I am not working, I am usually chauffeuring one or both of my two daughters to any one of their million sports or activities. With so little time to hit up the spa for a facial or relaxing treatment, I bring the spa home to me. Some women swoon over shoes; I swoon over skincare and beauty products! During the late hour of the evening, when the house is quiet and the phone is silenced, I give myself the gift of luxurious self-care. I consider quality skincare an investment in oneself, and its rewards are unparalleled.

Microneedling is a collagen induction therapy, a procedure that involves repeatedly puncturing the skin with tiny, sterile needles to promote the production of collagen in the skin.Our facelift surgery can be combined with a brow lift, eyelid surgery or nose reshaping for more dramatic results, or it can be restricted to the neck (neck lift) if the patient’s problems center there. Incisions are made in inconspicuous places, such as behind the hairline and in natural folds of the face and ears, and scars fade to near invisibility in time. The goal is to restore a youthful facial structure by repositioning the deep facial tissues to their original position. When done well, the results are extremely natural yet dramatic. Our patients simply look fresh, rested and more youthful.

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele completed Plastic Surgery training at the University of Southern California. He has been practicing in Corpus Christi, TX, since 2008 with a full range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Dr. Vijay, as his patients call him, is Board-Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Cassidy Hinojosa grew up in San Antonio, TX, and attended Texas A&M University for both her undergraduate and her medical degrees. She completed her training in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO. Dr. Cassidy joined the practice in 2018 and is Board-Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm Recommended by several Instagram influencers and heavy hitters, but it was Lindsey Silberman’s recommendation and review of the product that sold me. This cleansing balm is an all-in-one treatment, and the smell… oh, the smell will transport you to a beauty spa fit for a queen. It is moisturizing and fortified with collagen, which if you aren’t already incorporating, you need to do so ASAP. It will melt off the most long-wearing makeup and leave your skin perfectly cleansed and balanced. Its formula is ideal for nighttime cleaning, and won’t strip your skin of its moisture. One jar of this miracle cleanser will easily last 5-6 months – a little bit does the trick. Also, you can find it on sale, for 20 percent off, by subscribing to the Elemis email list and one of their many sales.

NuFace Microcurrent Facial Toning Device If I was forced to choose only one beauty tool to keep, it would be this gadget (and tweezers). Talk about a beauty tool that is a game changer. This device pumps microcurrents into the inner layers of skin and muscle. Combined with a use of a serum, you use this device in upward motions across your face, and the currents stimulate the muscles underneath. I use this in the mornings to rid myself of puffiness and droopy skin. It’s a facelift without the scalpel.

Donna Karan Cashmere Deodorant Let’s just go ahead and acknowledge that deodorant isn’t a beauty product that will cause a joyous response. In fact, many don’t

give much thought at all to their choice of deodorant, but living in South Texas, this is the one thing that must work! This has been my go-to deodorant for several years, and it’s never let me down. It’s long-lasting and has the softest clean scent that isn’t overpowering like other drug store brands. I’ve never found a deodorant that works better than this one.

Beautybio GloPro Like I said, I don’t have much time to enjoy a facial at a spa, but this tool is bringing the facial home to you. I use this every evening, after cleansing and toning, prior to my serums and lotions. What does it do? It’s brilliant: It creates micro needle injuries to the surface of your skin (don’t fret, you don’t even see them and it’s totally painless), allowing your products to be absorbed deeper into the skin. The micro injuries trick the skin into repair mode, flooding your cells with collagen and moisture. The result is more luminous and firmer skin. It’s worth every penny, by allowing you to maximize the benefits of your products.

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Daily Peel Pads If you’re wanting to begin a skincare ritual, or if you’re like me and will try anything once, then do not pass these up: super convenient individual packets containing an exfoliating and brightening punch. Instantly removes dead skin cells, showcasing a brighter complexion with reduced pore size. They’re perfect for on-the-go and travel. An absolute must-have.

Diptyque Rose Shower Foam and Hair Mist Out of all five of our senses, our sense of smell is most strongly attached to our memories and emotions. I am a connoisseur of perfumes, and this brand is one of my favorites. Not all fragrances and perfumes are created equal, and this one stands out among the masses. The shower foam is the ultimate in luxury. It will blanket not only the bathroom, but your house in a veil of fresh roses (and not your grandma’s roses) and leave your skin feeling like velvet. It begins as a gel but immediately turns your loofah into a bundle of decadent suds and bubbles. The tiniest bit goes the longest way. The hair mist is the perfect refresher for your hair if it’s on “skip day” because let’s be honest; no one wants to wash their hair on the daily. Also great for after a gym or Pilates session as a refresher.

Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum Many will balk at the price of this product, but let me preface it by saying that you only use two to three drops, so it will last forever. Serums are essential! A powerhouse serum is how you will give your skin what it needs most. Vintner’s Daughter is a cult favorite among influencers and celebs, and for good reason. It’s a multi-correctional serum created from all-natural and consciously sourced botanicals and extracts. The smell is an abundance of florals and herbs. Used at night only, it provides your skin with nutrients and moisture to repair a multitude of issues your skin might be facing. Two to three drops at most, rubbed between your fingertips and then pressed into the skin. The next morning, your skin is dewy and balanced.

Looking for a new doctor? You have come to the right place. The Coastal Bend is filled with numerous extraordinary doctors looking to help you live your healthiest and best life. Varying across numerous fields and specialties, there are tons of medical professionals in our local area ready to serve you. Take some time to meet several different doctors in the Coastal Bend.

They all have their own unique background and approach, but what they all have in common is a passion for helping patients and a love for ensuring top quality patient care and services.

COSMETIC & PLASTIC SURGERY

r. Vijay K. Bindingnavele also known as Dr. Vijay by this patients and staff, a veteran from the United States Air Force and Dr. Cassidy Hinojosa, an Aggie Alumna are honored to have the privilege to live in Corpus Christi, TX, where they are proud to serve their patients in our community. The Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery has a vast variety of surgical procedures including minimally invasive fillers and botulinum toxins. In addition to the surgical practice, their medical spa is the place to go for non-invasive procedures, including all of your skincare needs from customized facials to enhanced microneedling, and cosmetic laser procedures performed by qualified aestheticians. What is unique about Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery is their state-of-the-art surgery center. This facility is designed especially for surgery and is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). The facility meets the highest standards for patient safety, with surgery performed by trained and skilled surgeons like Dr. Vijay and Dr. Cassidy. Both physicians have many accomplishments, which are not limited to over 10 years of experience; both are licensed and board certified surgeons, with a focus in breast and body rejuvenation/sculpting and facial rejuvenation. Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Medical Spa has been voted in the Local’s List for best medical spa in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020. Here, patients are top priority and the goal of Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery is helping them regain confidence. No matter what you are looking for Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery has something for you!

CORPUS CHRISTI INSTITUTE OF COSMETIC & PLASTIC SURGERY 5642 Esplanade Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 361.888.7417 | corpusplasticsurgery.com

FOOT & ANKLE SPECIALIST

r. Corey Goolsby is a native to the Coastal Bend and is the new owner of Foot and Ankle Specialists of Corpus Christi. Dr. Goolsby is a graduate from Gregory Portland High School and received his bachelors from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi prior to attending Temple School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He completed his surgical residency at University of Texas-San Antonio where he received the award for “Outstanding Surgeon” upon graduation. Dr. Goolsby was the first in the area to perform the minimally invasive bunionectomy. This procedure has revolutionized the bunion surgery and can potentially allow a patient to begin walking immediately with significantly less pain than the traditional open correction. Dr. Goolsby also specializes in diabetic limb salvage, complex Charcot deformity correction and sports medicine.

Foot and Ankle Specialists of Corpus Christi strives to provide the most current and modernized advancement in care of the foot and ankle. Dr. Goolsby practices alongside Dr. Albert Kline and Dr. Bradley Lawrence. Aside from surgical care, the doctors at Foot and Ankle Specialists of Corpus Christi provide comprehensive clinical treatments to any ailment of the foot and ankle. In order to provide patients with the most thorough exams their clinics offer onsite x-rays and ultrasound imaging for more accurate and timely diagnosis. There are currently two locations serving the Corpus Christi and Portland area.

Dr. Goolsby is currently an Associate of The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, biking and surfing with his daughter, Ella.

FOOT AND ANKLE SPECIALISTS OF CORPUS CHRISTI

VEIN & VASCULAR

r. Javier Alonso has treated vein problems for more than 30 years. He completed his board certification requirements in general surgery at the University of Missouri, and his cardiothoracic surgery specialty training with board certification at the University of California - San Diego. He is certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, General Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery and he is also a Registered Phlebology Sonographer.

He has dedicated his life to improving blood flow to the heart, arteries, and veins throughout the body. As a pioneer in treatment of venous insufficiency, Dr. Alonso uses minimally invasive techniques to treat varicose veins. He is passionate about helping patients feel better and overcome their vascular symptoms. Getting rid of painful and unsightly varicose veins not only helps patients feel better, it ultimately improves their quality of life.

He is the Co-Founder of Texas Vein & Vascular and TVV MediSpa. Dr. Alonso and the staff at Texas Vein & Vascular are here to provide expert treatment and care for patients with vein disease at any stage.

TVV Medispa is located on the 2nd floor of their building and is a premier medical spa in which Dr. Alonso is Medical Director. He and his staff of nurses and medical estheticians provide comprehensive aesthetics for all skin types.

TEXAS VEIN & VASCULAR

MUSCULOSKELETAL RADIOLOGIST

fter a series of sports injuries in high school, Dr. Hanus realized that he wanted a career where he could help people with musculoskeletal (MSK) problems. This led him to medical school at the University of Texas – Houston and ultimately to diagnostic radiology with sub-specialty training in musculoskeletal imaging. He joined the Radiology Associates MSK team in 2019 after completing his fellowship at the University of Kansas in Kansas City, KS.

Dr. Hanus chose to come to Corpus Christi to practice after living in Aransas Pass for 10 years while growing up, “It seemed like a natural fit. I knew that I liked everything that South Texas had to offer, from the people to the saltwater fishing. Also the opportunity to join a great organization like Radiology Associates made moving to the Coastal Bend a very easy decision.” Dr. Hanus believes Radiology Associates is unique because of the talented radiologists from diverse backgrounds, working together to provide the best imaging and patient care possible.

Dr. Hanus is certain there are great things in the future of Radiology Associates. “We have a foundation of experienced Radiologists and we continue to add new fellowship trained radiologists to the practice. This will provide a new influx of ideas and allow us to adapt to the needs of the Coastal Bend residents and continue a high level of patient care."

Dr. Hanus and his wife, Jenny have two daughters, Allie (6) and Audrey (4). In their spare time, they enjoy fishing and spending family time together.

RADIOLOGY ASSOCIATES

OBGYN

r. Carolina Praderio is a board certified OBGYN practicing Gynecology in Corpus Christi. She is a native of Argentina and has lived in the U.S. since her early childhood. She is fluent in both English and Spanish and is proud to have had the opportunity to provide care for the community of Nueces County over the past ten years. She received her medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in Lubbock, TX and continued to complete her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

She prides herself in taking a more personal approach with her patients. Dr. Praderio recognizes that, at times, the needs of her patients require them to feel comfortable talking about topics that are difficult to discuss without that personal doctor-patient relationship. This sets her aside from others in her field and provides a safe place for her patients to describe what they are facing. She prides herself on empowering and educating women to take control of their health and live their best lives – at any age. In addition, her staff strives to make your visit as comfortable as possible, helping you to get every answer you need.

For more than 6 years she has dedicated her practice to the Gynecological needs of women. She has taken a special interest in weight loss, menopause, hormone therapy and women’s sexual health. She offers a physician managed weight loss program and vitamin injections, and she is a strong proponent of bioidentical hormone pellet therapy to help women combat the negative effects of menopause.

If you are looking for a physician that will treat you like a person and not a number, call her office to make an appointment.

DR. CAROLINA PRADERIO, M.D.

WEIGHT LOSS

stablished in 2012, The Better Weigh Center is Corpus Christi’s only comprehensive weight loss center, offering both medical and surgical weight loss plans to help patients who struggle with their weight. Their state-of-the-art multidisciplinary approach to weight loss allows patients to achieve long-lasting results by addressing all the known causes of obesity and helping patients develop healthier, sustainable habits.

The surgical portion of the practice is led by Dr. Lloyd Stegemann, Corpus Christi’s most experienced bariatric surgeon, and Dr. Jegan Gopal, the only fellowship trained bariatric surgeon in the city. Weight loss operations offered include gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, duodenal switch and revision procedures. All surgeries are done right here in Corpus Christi which Dr. Gopal feels is extremely important. “You want to be close to your surgeon before and after your surgery.’ he says

“You don’t want to have to drive a couple of hours to go see them if you have any issues.” Dr. Stegemann adds “We know follow up after your operation is essential for long-term success and the closer you are to your surgeon, the more likely you are to follow up.”

The Better Weigh Center has recently teamed up with LeanMD® to completely overhaul their medical weight loss program. “Teaming with LeanMD® will allow us to offer more resources to our patients that want to lose weight without surgery.” says Samantha Medley, FNP who leads the medical weight loss practice with Dr. Stegemann. “We can now use advanced technology and monitoring techniques to help our patients maximize their success” adds Dr. Stegemann “We’re really excited about what we can offer Coastal Bend residents to help them gain control of their weight and get back to a healthier life.”

THE BETTER WEIGH CENTER

PAIN MEDICINE

r. Gabriel Lopez was born and raised by a single mother in inner city Houston. Living in a rough part of Houston and watching his mother work multiple jobs just to make ends meet motivated him to excel in school and pursue higher education. Dr. Gabriel Lopez attended and graduated from Texas A&M University, College Station as a pre-med student and then graduated from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School in 2000. He then completed his Anesthesia Residency at Loma Linda Hospital in California in 2004 where he was Chief Resident. During his Anesthesia Residency he really enjoyed his Pain Management rotation so he pursued a Pain Fellowship at The University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio.

After making the decision to become a Pain Management Physician he moved to Corpus Christi, Texas. Dr. Gabriel Lopez has resided in Corpus Christi for 15 years now along with his wife, Angelina and his two beautiful daughters, Gabriela (13), and Carolina (9).

Dr. Lopez started his own practice, Corpus Christi Pain Medicine in 2006 with just 2 staff members and expanded the clinic quickly to now having 15 full-time employees and a nurse practitioner. The clinic is his home away from home and he treats all his staff like family. With the motto “Making Lives Better," Dr. Lopez goes above and beyond to find an answer to treat each patient’s individual pain. Dr. Lopez believes laughter can sometimes be the best medicine so he loves to joke and laugh with his patients to help put them at ease.

Dr. Lopez’ vision for improving and expanding patient care includes the addition of his new surgical center, Southside Specialty Surgical Center which just opened in December 2019 on Holly Road. He built his Ambulatory Surgery Center as a place where patients can experience a safe and warm environment prior to, during and following a surgical procedure. He strives to make it a world class Ambulatory Surgical Center that is the premier choice for patients and surgeons for outpatient surgical services. CORPUS CHRISTI PAIN MEDICINE, P.A. “Making Lives Better” “Making Lives Better” CORPUS CHRISTI PAIN MEDICINE, P.A. “Making Lives Better” “Making Lives Better” P.A.

Board Certified Board Certified in in Pa Pain in Medicine Medicine Fellowship Trained Fellowship Trained in in Pa Pain in Medicine Medicine CORPUS CHRISTI PAIN MEDICINE 3825 South Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78415 Rudy Garza, M.D. Board Eligible in Pain Medicine Are you suffering from Chronic Pain? Rudy Garza, M.D. Board Eligible in Pain Medicine Are you suffering from Chronic Pain? 361-225-0089 | www.ccpainmed.com Fellowship Trained Dr. Lopez may be able to help. Fellowship Trained in Dr. Lopez may be able to help. in Pa Pain in Medicine Medicine

GYNECOLOGY

r. Eubank’s practice and treatment options focus on all facets of women’s health as they are all interrelated. He has run a private practice in Corpus Christi since 1983. Before opening his practice, he attended Baylor University and subsequently attended University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas where he graduated in the top ten of his class. He did a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Parkland Hospital in Dallas where he served as Chief Resident. Dr. Eubank is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecology and a member of the society for Reproductive Medicine.

For the past 15 years, Dr. Eubank has dedicated his practice to Gynecology, focusing on the mature woman. He addresses women’s needs, such as menopausal hormone management with bio-identical hormone pellet therapy for women and men, vaginal rejuvenation with in office ThermiVa, O-shot and Emsella, a revolutionary electromagnetic chair that treats incontinence for women and men. Dr. Eubank is proud to offer a medically supervised weight loss program that has helped over 1,300 men and women adopt new lifestyle habits in order to meet their weight loss goals and maintain these results. In addition, Dr. Eubank offers FDA approved, Sculpsure laser treatment for permanent fat reduction. Dr. Eubank has owned Advanced Research Associates for 15 years, offering clinical trials and research that helps bring new medications, diagnostic and treatment options to the market for women. Dr. Eubank will continue his commitment to helping women throughout their lifespan by offering new, safe and effective treatment options to help women maintain their gynecological, physical, sexual and emotional health, self-image and confidence.

ADVANCED WELLNESS & REJUVENATION

COSMETIC SURGERY

r. Keith Rose is a plastic surgeon who believes that listening to his patients and understanding their goals is the cornerstone of great results. He founded Rose Cosmetic Surgery Center to help patients at his Corpus Christi practice and throughout the world achieve the appearance of their dreams. Dr. Rose is an internationally recognized plastic surgeon who has performed plastic and reconstructive surgeries around the world. His career over the past eighteen years reflects a balance between private practice and charitable work for people in need.

Since establishing Rose Cosmetic Surgery Center in 2013, Dr. Rose has expanded his private practice along the South Texas coast, becoming a destination surgeon for patients across the state of Texas. Licensed and certified in Texas, Dr. Rose has emerged as one of the leading plastic surgeons for everything from body contouring and breast augmentation to the subtle art of facial rejuvenation. Dr. Rose’s long-standing commitment to patient care is reflected in his impeccable reputation as a plastic surgeon who treats staff and patients with the same degree of attention as his own family members.

Dr. Rose graduated from Baylor University where he was a Dean’s List student and four-year letterman in football. He attended the University of Texas Medical Branch for medical school, where the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Society recognized him as one of the top students in his class. Dr. Rose’s surgical training includes: 1)General Surgery/Plastic Surgery residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. 2)Burn fellowship at the Shriners Hospital for Crippled Children in Galveston. 3)Over 3000 craniofacial surgeries performed worldwide.

Between caring for plastic surgery patients at Rose Cosmetic Surgery Center and traveling to provide much-needed surgical treatment to people in need, Dr. Rose spends his free time pursuing an active lifestyle and exploring the world. Fluent in Spanish and English, Dr. Rose can communicate with patients in either language during consultations and follow-up appointments.

An avid surfer and kitesurfer, you can find Dr. Rose catching waves on the beautiful beaches of Corpus Christi or heading to a cold climate to snowboard.

ROSE COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER

ADULT HIP AND KNEE RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY & REPLACEMENT

ason Thompson, M.D. is Fellowship Trained in Adult Hip & Knee Reconstructive Surgery and Replacement. He completed training at the Orthopaedic Surgery Division Schulich School of Medicine, University of Western Ontario at London Health Sciences Centre in London, Ontario, Canada. His fellowship training included management of degenerative, rheumatoid, and post-traumatic arthritis of the hip and knee, a high volume of revision hip & knee arthroplasty, as well as exposure to non-arthroplasty alternatives of young adult hip disorders. The emphasis of the fellowship was on revision hip and knee arthroplasty.

Dr. Thompson accomplished Orthopaedic Residency at The University of Texas Health Science Center of San Antonio. He acquired his Medical Degree at The University of Texas Health Science Center of San Antonio, School of Medicine and his Bachelor of Science in General Studies, Magna Cum Laude at The University of Texas at Dallas in Richardson,TX.

His experiences include time as a Research Study and Regulatory Coordinator at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas as well as a Patient Care Technician at Baylor Medical Center in Dallas. Dr. Thompson was also named, by his peers, a member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society and the Most Outstanding Resident Mentor in orthopaedic surgery.

Dr. Thompson’s professional experience includes a four-year career as a professional soccer player - playing two years for FC Dallas and two years for DC United in Major League Soccer (MLS), winning the MLS Cup championship in '04 with DC United. He was also a member of the U.S. under-23 Men’s National Soccer Team and elected into the Eastern Illinois University (EIU) Sports Hall of Fame for his accomplishments with the EIU Men’s Soccer Team. He joins South Texas Bone & Joint to help celebrate 40+ years as Leaders in Orthopaedic Excellence serving the Coastal Bend … since 1972.

SOUTH TEXAS BONE & JOINT

REHABILITATION

att Bayazitoglu MD, a board certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician with additional fellowship training in sports and spine interventions, has been working at Post Acute Rehabilitation (PAM) in Corpus Christi since May, 2020. He has been fortunate enough to live and learn in a diverse number of settings. Though most of his time has been spent throughout Texas, he has worked and trained in Boston, Birmingham, Denver, and Honolulu.

He feels lucky to work with such talented physicians, therapists, nurses, and staff who are devoted to providing the best rehabilitation care for their patients and community. PAM’s new, state of the art facility, offers a number of services to a variety of patients who previously might not have had access to such care. While continuing to provide inpatient rehabilitation care, he is excited to expand outpatient rehabilitation services and treatments.

Dr. Bayazitoglu’s passion is helping patients regain functioning to live a more independent life. Improved functional tasks can be as simple as getting out of bed, or complex such as returning to a high-level sport. Helping patients improve functioning is best done with a team approach with the support from enthusiastic leadership.

When he isn’t busy with his patients, he can be found enjoying local water activities such as kiteboarding. He is engaged with the Nueces County Medical Society, and he is looking forward to volunteering with future community and local sporting events.

Dr. Bayazitoglu and the team at Post Acute Medical Rehabilitation aim to provide the best rehabilitation services to the Coastal Bend community.

PAM REHABILITATION HOSPITAL OF CORPUS CHRISTI

OPEN HOUSE 62 GARDENING 70 SPACES 72

Bright colors, a plethora of plants, and representations of culture abound at Gerald and Elena Flores’ abode. From their individual home office spaces to their collection of works from local artists, their home is both welcoming and beautiful.