Hormone Therapy

Conveniently located to serve the areas of New Bern, NC

hormone replacement therapy for men and women with pellets

Hormone therapy is a way to restore hormonal balance and enhance the quality of life for patients. (1) We often begin to notice gradual changes as we age, whether we feel more tired, more distracted, or notice changes in libido or weight. Oftentimes, these changes are due to an underlying hormonal imbalance. Hormone therapy aims to help you feel more like yourself by replenishing and rebalancing hormone levels from within.

Dr. John Zannis and his experienced team at Zannis Plastic Surgery offer advanced hormone therapy solutions for patients like you throughout New Bern, North Carolina, who want to address the impact of hormonal changes with a safe and personalized plan. We use evidence-based treatment strategies to restore balance and enhance daily functioning for men and women at varying stages of life.

To learn more about hormone therapy, call us at (252) 633-1197.

About Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy helps individuals regain stable and consistent hormone levels when natural production begins to slow or become irregular. The body relies on hormones to control basically all essential functions. (2) Some individuals experience more subtle changes, while others have more noticeable disruptions to their daily life and sense of well-being. Hormone therapy provides the body with a steady supply of hormones so that you can feel like your strongest, healthiest self.

Pellet-Based Hormone Therapy

One of the most popular forms of hormone therapy is pellet-based hormone therapy. Pellet therapy delivers small pellets under the skin that supply a consistent level of hormones over the course of 3-6 months. This method is said to be easier and less of a nuisance than daily creams, patches, or pills. What’s more, the pellets dissolve naturally over time, so they do not need to be removed. (3)

Hormonal Imbalances for Women and Men: How do Symptoms Differ?

Dr. Zannis and his team recognize that hormonal imbalances affect men and women differently, as they have different hormone levels to start. This is an important consideration for designing any given treatment plan.

For example, women may experience hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, low libido, mood changes, and weight changes, especially during perimenopause and menopause. (4)

Men may notice decreased energy, reduced sexual function, diminished muscle mass, slower metabolism, cognitive fatigue, and irritability. (5)

For both men and women, symptoms can develop gradually, which might make them difficult to pinpoint as the result of an underlying hormonal imbalance. If you are noticing any of these symptoms, it is best to seek outa proper and professional evaluation. You might be eligible for hormone therapy to help you regain stability and improve your overall quality of life.

Benefits of Hormone Therapy

Customized hormone therapy regimens bring several notable benefits, including:

  • Stable and consistent hormone levels
  • Improved energy and vitality
  • Better emotional stability and fewer mood swings
  • Enhanced cognitive clarity and memory
  • Improved sleep quality and fewer nighttime disruptions
  • Support for sexual health and libido
  • Improved body composition and metabolism
  • Reduction in hot flashes and menopausal symptoms
  • Greater motivation and overall quality of life

Personal Consultation

A personal consultation with Dr. Zannis and/or his team allows you to discuss your symptoms, learn about treatment options, and complete the evaluation needed to determine the most effective treatment. During this appointment, Dr. Zannis will review your medical history, discuss the changes you have noticed, and recommend lab testing to measure hormone levels. He will explain how pellet therapy works, how long the results last, and what lifestyle changes can help you optimize your experience.

To schedule your consultation, call (252) 633-1197.

Preparation

Preparing for hormone therapy is simple. Dr. Zannis may request lab work to evaluate hormone levels, thyroid function, and other relevant markers that influence treatment decisions. Patients should inform the team of any medications or supplements they currently take. Dr. Zannis will recommend a treatment plan once the evaluation is complete, and he will explain what to expect before pellet insertion so you feel ready and informed.

The Pellet Insertion Process

During treatment, Dr. Zannis will insert the small pellets under your skin, typically in the hip area. This minor procedure takes only a few minutes.

Patients often appreciate the convenience of not having to remember daily treatments or worry about applying creams or patches correctly.

Recovery

Recovery after pellet insertion is minimal. Mild tenderness at the insertion site is normal and usually fades quickly. The pellets release hormones gradually, and patients may notice improvements within a few days to a few weeks, depending on their starting levels and metabolic response. The team at Zannis Plastic Surgery will remain available to answer questions and monitor progress as your levels stabilize.

Results

Hormone therapy results develop gradually as hormone levels reach a consistent balance. Many patients report improved energy, mood, sleep, and cognitive functioning. Women often experience relief from hot flashes, irritability, and weight fluctuations. Men may notice improved strength, vitality, motivation, and sexual health. Results last several months until the pellets naturally dissolve, at which point you may undergo a follow-up treatment to keep hormone levels steady.

Cost of Hormone Therapy with Pellets in New Bern, NC

Hormonal changes impact everyone differently, and as such, each treatment plan at Zannis Plastic Surgery will vary for each patient and their needs. Because of this variability, the cost of hormone therapy with pellets will be unique to each patient. Dr. Zannis and his team are committed to transparency and will provide a detailed cost estimate during your personal consultation. For those who qualify, Zannis Plastic Surgery offers financing options to make treatment more accessible.

To explore the cost of your personalized hormone therapy regimen, please call our New Bern office at (252) 633-1197 today!

Why Choose Zannis Plastic Surgery for Pellet Hormone Replacement Therapy?

At Zannis Plastic Surgery, we dedicate ourselves to providing personalized, compassionate care that addresses the root cause of your symptoms. Our team of experts has extensive experience in hormone therapy and commits to helping you achieve lasting relief and a better quality of life. With our patient-centered approach, you can expect:

  • Comprehensive Care: From your initial consultation to follow-up visits, we tailor every aspect of your treatment to your unique challenges.
  • Expertise: Dr. Zannis and his team have advanced training in hormone therapy, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care.
  • Holistic Approach: We believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. We’ll work with you to create a balanced, healthy lifestyle that supports your hormone therapy and overall well-being.

FAQ

How long do hormone pellets last?

Hormone pellets last for about 3 to 6 months, although patient experiences may vary. The pellets are naturally absorbed by the body over time. After the pellet is fully absorbed, patients can undergo a follow-up treatment to get new pellets and maintain hormone balance.

How soon will I notice the results of hormone therapy?

Some patients notice improvements within days, while others may see gradual changes over several weeks. We recommend following a healthy lifestyle and any recommendations provided to you by your doctor to optimize your results and see improvements more quickly.

Is pellet insertion painful?

The procedure uses local anesthetic, and most patients describe little to no discomfort. Mild tenderness is normal after the procedure, but it resolves quickly.

Can pellet therapy help with weight gain?

In many cases, weight gain is exacerbated by some kind of hormonal imbalance. Hormone therapy may support metabolism and energy levels, which can contribute to more sustainable weight management.

Do men and women receive different hormone pellets?

Each pellet formulation addresses different concerns varying between gender, hormone levels, and personal goals. Hormonal imbalances manifest in men and women in different ways, meaning they require different approaches to treatment.

Can hormone therapy improve sleep?

Yes, a hormonal imbalance can make it more difficult to get to sleep, and it can even decrease the quality of sleep. This results in feeling more groggy throughout the day and having more brain fog. Many patients report better sleep quality once hormone levels stabilize.

References

  1. National Academies of Sciences E, Division H and M, Policy B on HS, et al. The Safety and Effectiveness of Compounded Bioidentical Hormone Therapy. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Published July 1, 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562865/
  2. Ali SA, Begum T, Reza F. Hormonal Influences on Cognitive Function. Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences. 2018;25(4):31-41. doi:https://doi.org/10.21315/mjms2018.25.4.3
  3. Celeste M, Steiner ML, Fernandes CE, et al. Compounded hormonal pellets: a critical review of current evidence and risks. Revista da Associação Médica Brasileira. 2025;71(7). doi:https://doi.org/10.1590/1806-9282.20250121
  4. Harper-Harrison G, Shanahan MM, Carlson K. Hormone Replacement Therapy. National Library of Medicine. Published 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493191/
  5. Cruickshank M, Hudson J, Hernández R, et al. The effects and safety of testosterone replacement therapy for men with hypogonadism: the TestES evidence synthesis and economic evaluation. Health Technology Assessment. Published online August 2024:1-210. doi:https://doi.org/10.3310/jryt3981