Hello, everyone.

This is Dr. Yoko Maeda, a board-certified physician in aesthetic internal medicine at BIANCA.

About Dr. Yoko Maeda: An Expert in Aesthetic Internal Medicine

Dr. Maeda’s career began with foundational training at Okinawa Prefectural Nanbu Medical Center and Children’s Medical Center. She expanded her expertise in radiology at Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine and worked in cosmetic clinics. Her passion for innovative therapies was ignited after attending the Intravenous Therapy Research Society seminar, where she discovered high-dose vitamin C IV therapy. She further honed her skills as a research fellow at the Riordan Clinic in the U.S. and achieved remarkable milestones, such as becoming the youngest physician to pass the board certification of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M).

Currently, she leads as a board-certified physician at BIANCA, specializing in comprehensive anti-aging care that targets health and beauty from the inside out. Her focus includes:

• Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy (NHRT)
• Peptide Therapy
• Personalized Supplementation Treatments

Her mission is to help patients maintain youthful vitality and improve their overall well-being.

Dr. Maeda’s Qualifications:

• Director of the Japanese Society of Aesthetic Medicine
• Board-Certified Physician, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M)
• Fellow in Anti-Aging, Metabolism, and Functional Medicine (A4M)
• Certified Chelation Physician, American College for Advancement in Medicine (ACAM)

What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment designed to replenish hormones that the body no longer produces sufficiently due to aging or other factors. It serves various purposes, including:

1. Menopause and Perimenopause Management
   • Alleviating physical symptoms like hot flashes, fatigue, and joint pain.
   • Improving mental well-being by reducing anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
2. Anti-Aging Benefits
   • Enhancing skin elasticity, collagen production, and bone health.
   • Boosting energy, libido, and mental clarity.
3. Disease Prevention
   • Reducing risks of osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of dementia.

Globally, HRT is recognized as a cornerstone in modern anti-aging practices, particularly in the U.S. and Europe.

Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy

HRT methods are categorized into two major types:

1. Synthetic Hormone Therapy
   These hormones are chemically synthesized and often come with higher risks of side effects.
2. Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy (NHRT)
   At BIANCA, NHRT is our treatment of choice. These hormones, often referred to as bioidentical hormones, mimic those naturally produced in the body, making them safer and more effective for long-term use.

Hormones Commonly Used in HRT

HRT involves supplementing hormones based on individual needs determined through blood tests. The main hormones used include:

For Women:

1. Progesterone
   • Stabilizes uterine lining.
   • Aids in breast development and basal body temperature regulation.
   • Counteracts the effects of unopposed estrogen to reduce cancer risks.
2. Estrogen
   • Promotes collagen production for youthful skin.
   • Supports vaginal and uterine health.

For women in their late 30s to 50s, a decline in these hormones can lead to menopause-related symptoms, including hot flashes, insomnia, mood swings, and decreased skin elasticity.

For Men:

1. Testosterone
   • Improves energy levels, muscle mass, libido, and mental focus.
2. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)
   • A precursor to testosterone, offering subtle yet effective hormone balancing.

For Both Genders:

1. Thyroid Hormones
   • Vital for maintaining energy, metabolism, and overall vitality.
     Even mild deficiencies can lead to fatigue and decreased quality of life.

Who Should Consider HRT?

HRT is suitable for individuals experiencing symptoms linked to hormone deficiencies, such as:

1. Women approaching menopause (40s–50s):
   Symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue indicate hormonal imbalances.
2. Men experiencing andropause (40s–60s):
   Symptoms include reduced libido, fatigue, irritability, and physical weakness.
3. Younger individuals with specific conditions:
   • PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)
   • PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
4. Those with early signs of aging or unexplained fatigue.

The Process of Hormone Replacement Therapy

1. Initial Consultation:
   • A detailed medical history review and symptom assessment.
2. Blood Testing:
   • Comprehensive analysis to determine hormone levels and identify deficiencies.
3. Personalized Treatment Plan:
   • Tailored therapy using bioidentical hormones, with periodic adjustments based on follow-up tests and symptom monitoring.

The Benefits and Timeline of HRT

Patients often notice improvements within 2 weeks to 3 months. The benefits include:

• Improved energy and mood.
• Reduced menopause or andropause symptoms.
• Enhanced physical vitality and cognitive function.

Anti-Aging and Disease Prevention: The Long-Term View

While HRT is commonly associated with managing menopausal symptoms, its long-term benefits are equally significant:

1. For Women:
   • Postmenopause, HRT can prevent osteoporosis and reduce cardiovascular risks.
   • Recent studies suggest a link between estrogen decline and increased dementia risk, making continued therapy beneficial.
2. For Men:
   • Sustained testosterone levels improve muscle strength, bone density, and cardiovascular health.

When to Start HRT

• For Women: Ages 40–55 (around menopause transition).
• For Men: Ages 40–60, as testosterone naturally declines.

Why Choose HRT for Anti-Aging?

Hormone decline accelerates aging by affecting skin, bones, and mental well-being. By replenishing hormones, HRT serves as a key anti-aging tool, helping individuals look and feel younger from within.

If you’ve experienced unusual fatigue, mood changes, or other signs of aging, it may be time to explore hormone replacement therapy. Whether you are dealing with menopause, andropause, or simply seeking to rejuvenate your body, HRT can help you achieve a more youthful, vibrant life.

Book a Consultation Today

For those interested in improving their health and beauty from the inside out, we invite you to book a consultation at BIANCA. Together, we’ll create a tailored plan to support your journey to renewed vitality.

Bookings are available on website or dm us at @bianca_clinic_tokyo 🙂 All consultations, treatments and after care are assisted by a translator with NO extra fee! See you at BIANCA xx