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3700 Joseph Siewick Dr., Suite 400 • Fairfax, VA 22033 (703) 620-4300 • EyePlasticMD.com
MAY 2024
MAY REMINDS US TO START BIKING On Your Mark, Get Set, Cycle!
Something about the wind in your face, the rhythmic whir of the wheels, and the freedom of the open road captivates the soul. Biking is more than just a mode of transportation. It embodies a lifestyle filled with adventure, exploration, and connection to the world around us. Whether navigating bustling city streets or pedaling on a dirt road in the countryside, the joys of biking are endless. May is National Bike Month, which originated in 1956 and is promoted by the League of American Bicyclists. As an annual celebration observed across the U.S., this monthlong event serves as a platform to highlight the many benefits of cycling and encourage people to embrace the joy of riding a bike. As an avid cycling enthusiast, one of my passions is participating in events like the Tour de Madison in Virginia. This exhilarating ride offers 22–65-
mile routes, taking bikers through picturesque mountains and scenic landscapes. Our area is fortunate to have dedicated bike lanes and trails like the Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail, stretching 45 miles from Alexandria to a charming town called Purcellville. This trail provides a safe and enjoyable ride for cyclists of all skill levels, away from the hustle and bustle of main roads. However, it is crucial to exercise caution when crossing streets and to be mindful of pedestrians on these shared trails. As I prepare for events like the Tour de Madison, I dedicate time to building endurance and strength through regular rides, including challenging uphill climbs. By adjusting my bike’s gears and pacing appropriately for uphill stretches, I enjoy a smoother ride. Participating in spin classes regularly also helps me maintain my fitness and stamina.
For those who prefer indoor cycling, I recommend taking spin classes. It is a fantastic alternative to outdoor riding and provides a rigorous workout in a controlled and safe environment. Whether you prefer indoor or outdoor cycling, the health benefits of biking are undeniable in furthering your overall well-being. Personal safety is paramount while cycling; cars and other vehicles may not always see cyclists. Adhering to Virginia laws and obeying the rules of the road mitigates risks and ensures a smooth and safe riding experience. Additionally, proper visibility is vital, mainly when riding in low-light conditions. Equipping your bike with bright lights and reflective gear enhances visibility and reduces the risk of accidents on the road. National Bike Month celebrates the joy of cycling and its numerous physical and mental health benefits. It is a reminder to immerse ourselves in outdoor environments. Let’s remember to exercise caution for a safer and more bike-friendly world. By prioritizing safety, following regulations, and embracing outdoor and indoor riding opportunities, cyclists can enjoy the exhilarating biking experience while reaping its many rewards. It is never too late to start; get out
“National Bike Month celebrates the joy of cycling and its numerous physical and mental health benefits.”
there and enjoy the beauty of nature and the fresh air that comes with it!
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EUROPE’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ESCAPES FROM SNOWY VILLAGES TO YEAR-ROUND HOLIDAY CHEER
EFFORTLESS EATING
Navigating the kitchen can often feel like a juggling act, but with a few clever hacks, you can transform mundane tasks into efficient and enjoyable activities. Here are three game-changing tips that will make your time in the kitchen a breeze. EASY SHREDDING Shredding meats for soups, lunches, or snacks can be a time-consuming affair, but a simple hack can turn it into a hassle-free endeavor. Using a stand or hand mixer will get this job done quickly as it shreds meat for you, saving you time and effort. This hack is particularly handy for recipes that call for pulled pork, chicken, or beef, allowing you to enjoy deliciously shredded proteins without manual labor. DELI CONTAINER STORAGE Say goodbye to mismatched Tupperware containers or losing the lid that goes with them. Say hello to an organized and cost-effective solution. Buying deli containers in bulk saves you money and time. The lids are interchangeable, making a harmonious storage system that’s easy to organize. You’ll be able to find and fit them easily, cutting out a chunk of time in your kitchen. PARCHMENT PAPER CLEANING Cooking can be a joy, but nobody enjoys cleaning up. Before starting a messy task, lay down a sheet of parchment paper on your cutting board or countertop. This simple trick not only protects your surfaces but also streamlines the post- cooking cleanup process. Any spills, shreds, or crumbs can be easily gathered and discarded in the paper, leaving your kitchen looking as good as new as soon as it’s thrown away. It’s a small adjustment that can make a significant difference in your overall experience. By implementing these simple hacks, you’re not just streamlining your tasks; you’re elevating the joy of cooking. Armed with these new tricks, step into your kitchen with new confidence and mastery to turn everyday cooking into an efficient yet imaginative experience.
WE PUT OUR PEOPLE FIRST In the Spotlight: William Hall
“Visiting Dr. Scott is always a reassuring experience. From the moment I stepped into his office, I was greeted by a warm, welcoming smile that instantly put me at ease. I was always confident in the care I was about to receive. The last time I visited Dr. Scott, I had an eye exam, and after my peripheral vision test, it was clear I had not done well. Thankfully, Dr. Scott patiently explained my eye condition and what he could do to help. He recommended that I undergo eyelid surgery. I was a bit apprehensive to go under the needle at first, but despite my nerves, the surgery went smoothly. Allergy season used to cause my eyelids to droop more, but now I can finally see clearly without my wife asking me whether or not I’m awake. “The recovery period was much quicker than expected, and I immediately noticed improvements. I feel rejuvenated, as if I have shed
years off my appearance. Instead of feeling and looking like I am 102 years old, I now feel more like 72! My daughter, who is a spitting image of me, plans to follow suit with her eye-drooping surgery. Doctor Scott genuinely cares about his patients and ensures they feel welcomed and informed; I appreciate his contribution to my well-being. “Looking back on my journey, I am immensely grateful for Dr. Scott’s skill and attention to detail. His team is kind and thoughtful, always ensuring the most positive experience whenever I am in the office. Moving forward, I fully trust Dr. Scott and would 100% recommend his expertise to anyone in a similar scenario. Dr. Scott’s guidance has set me on the path to healing; I am eternally grateful for that.”
–William H.
2 EyePlasticMD.com
How to Manage Styes and Recurring Chalazions UNDERSTANDING AND TREATING BROW PTOSIS Defying Gravity
“Good” facial structure more than just a superficial desire; it reflects overall health and well-being. In the discussion of facial aging, a condition called brow ptosis exists. Brow ptosis encompasses various factors contributing to a drooping appearance of the upper eyelids and brows. If you look at your brow position and it appears to sag, preventing the eyelid from opening correctly, you may have a case of brow ptosis. Several factors contribute to the development of brow ptosis, including the relentless passage of time, gravity, and the gradual loss of volume in the natural tissues underlying the skin. As the brow loses its natural projection, a surplus of skin accumulates, exacerbating the appearance of droopiness of the upper eyelids and it can even eventually progress to interfere with vision. This condition frequently becomes more pronounced over time, prompting individuals to seek a remedy. One effective solution for brow ptosis is the endoscopic brow lift, a surgical procedure designed to elevate the brow and alleviate the burden of heaviness on the upper eyelids. By lifting the facial tissues away from the brow bone, this procedure restores a more youthful contour to the brow region, ultimately improving the symmetry and overall appearance of the face. Alternatively,
treatments such as filler injections can address some brow asymmetry and reduce the perceived heaviness in the lateral portions of the brow.
By carefully analyzing the individual’s facial anatomy and considering factors such as dominant eye function, health care professionals can tailor treatment plans to meet each patient’s aesthetic goals. Brow ptosis is a multifaceted phenomenon requiring a comprehensive evaluation and targeted intervention to achieve optimal outcomes. Through a combination of surgical approaches, individuals can regain confidence in their appearance and enjoy a rejuvenated facial aesthetic.
GRILLED RED CURRY BEEF SATAY WITH PEANUT SAUCE Inspired by StarTribune.com
INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS
1.
Freeze flank steak for 30 minutes. Cut crosswise, against the grain, into thin slices. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut
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1 1/2 lb flank steak
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
2.
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2 tbsp lime juice 1–3 tbsp Thai red curry paste 1 tbsp fish sauce
A referral is the highest compliment we can receive! Thank you for sending us six referrals this month!
milk, lime juice, curry paste, and fish sauce. Add steak and toss to coat. Cover and chill for 8 hours. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut milk, curry paste, brown sugar, and fish sauce. Bring to a gentle boil for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add peanut butter and stir until well blended. Remove from heat and add lime juice. Thread the marinated meat onto 12 long skewers. Grill until beef is medium rare, 1–2 minutes per side. Transfer satay to a platter and serve with peanut sauce.
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3.
For sauce: •
1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
“Every time you miss your childhood, ride on a bicycle!” MEHMET MURAT ILDAN
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1–2 tbsp Thai red curry paste 1 tbsp brown sugar 1 tbsp fish sauce 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter 1 tbsp lime juice
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3 (703) 620-4300
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3700 Joseph Siewick Dr., Suite 400 • Fairfax, VA 22033 (703) 620-4300 • EyePlasticMD.com
Inside This Issue
1
National Bike Month Inspires Active Living
2 2 3 3 4
Cook Like a Seasoned Veteran
William’s Journey to Healing
Understand the Drooping Eyebrow Phenomenon
Grilled Red Curry Beef Satay With Peanut Sauce
Food History Facts That Will Amaze You
4 Fascinating Historical Food Facts
Food is central to every culture. The what, why, and hows of culinary history are diverse and fascinating. From the forgotten Roman condiment to the short- lived hot soda, there’s no end to the depth of interesting food facts. NO. 1: DOUBLE-DIP FAUX PAS The nobility of the Ottoman Empire followed a complex but rational code of culinary conduct. After washing with soap and water, they ate primarily with their hands. Once the meal began, they followed rules much like ours. Double dipping and lip-smacking were frowned upon, and eating more than one bite of a dish was rude, too. Luckily, meals had dozens of unique dishes. NO. 2: THE LOST CONDIMENT The Romans left behind a vibrant legacy. Aqueducts are still used throughout Europe, while their language is the basis of many other languages. One thing that hasn’t stood the test of time is garum. They poured this condiment on almost everything they ate. Made from fermented fish, garum’s salty, fishy flavor no longer appeals to the average Westerner’s palate. NO. 3: HOT BEVERAGE FAIL Dr. Pepper, like most sodas, is best enjoyed cold. This means there are fewer soda sales during the winter when people opt for comforting, warm beverages. To remedy this, the soda company tried to push hot Dr. Pepper
in the 1960s. Meant to be served warm with lemon, they marketed
it to magazines, television, and
radio. The campaign was unsurprisingly unsuccessful.
NO. 4: ROAMING RAMEN Ramen is one of Japan’s most iconic dishes, but it doesn’t actually
originate from Japan. The noodle soup comes from China, where it is known as shina soba. It became popular in Japan after World War II. The country had undergone a food shortage for years but had finally started importing supplies. Chinese food was believed to be nourishing and filling, so street vendors offering cheap but delicious ramen became a mainstay. Once instant ramen was invented, the noodle soup became associated with Japan worldwide. Whenever you sit down for dinner, consider how you eat and the odd traditions you unconsciously observe. We’re all part of a marvelous culinary culture and should celebrate what makes us unique.
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