Male Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Lafayette, LA

Male Testosterone Replacement Therapy restores declining testosterone levels in men. Treatment can help address age-related changes associated with testosterone decline, including low libido, decreased muscle mass and strength, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, weight gain, and changes in body composition.

Male Testosterone Replacement Therapy Consultation

Membership

About the Treatment

Male Testosterone Replacement Therapy at Refyne Medical Aesthetics and Wellness begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation and individualized consultation. We take the time to review your medical history, current symptoms, previous testosterone or hormone use, health concerns, medications, and what you hope to achieve through treatment. An important part of the consultation is education—we explain how testosterone functions throughout the male body, how testosterone levels can change with age, and how declining or deficient testosterone can affect much more than sexual function.

How Testosterone Works

Testosterone production is controlled through a communication system between the brain, pituitary gland, and testes, known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. In simple terms, the brain sends hormonal signals to the pituitary gland, which then releases luteinizing hormone (LH) to signal the testes to produce testosterone.

Testosterone levels naturally tend to decline with age, but low testosterone can also occur when the testes are not responding appropriately to these signals or when signaling from the hypothalamus or pituitary gland is reduced. Other medical conditions, medications, obesity, sleep disorders, and hormonal abnormalities can also contribute. This is why our evaluation looks beyond a single testosterone level to help determine whether testosterone is truly deficient and why it may be low.

When the body is no longer producing adequate testosterone, men may experience changes in libido and sexual function, energy, muscle mass and strength, body composition, concentration, mood, and overall well-being. Long-standing testosterone deficiency can also negatively affect bone mineral density and contribute to osteoporosis. Because many symptoms associated with low testosterone can have other causes, our evaluation looks beyond testosterone alone to develop a more complete picture of each patient’s health.

A Comprehensive, Individualized Approach

Our approach to testosterone replacement therapy extends beyond simply checking a testosterone level and prescribing a standard dose. Our provider, Dr. Brooklyn Buras, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, received specialized training and clinical experience under one of New England’s leading prescribers of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, with an emphasis on comprehensive evaluation, individualized dosing, ongoing monitoring, and hormone optimization. Every patient begins with a detailed consultation that includes a review of symptoms, medical history, current medications and supplements, previous hormone therapy, lifestyle factors, and individual treatment goals.

Testosterone levels are evaluated within the context of the whole patient rather than treated as an isolated laboratory value. Symptoms of testosterone deficiency can overlap with other medical conditions, medications, thyroid dysfunction, metabolic abnormalities, nutritional deficiencies, and other hormonal changes. For this reason, treatment begins with understanding not only whether testosterone is low, but also the patient’s symptoms, overall health, and, when appropriate, why testosterone may be low in the first place. This comprehensive evaluation is supported by an extensive baseline laboratory assessment and continued laboratory monitoring throughout treatment.

Comprehensive Laboratory Evaluation & Monitoring

Baseline laboratory testing is performed in our clinic and includes a comprehensive evaluation of total testosterone, free testosterone, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Evaluating free testosterone and SHBG is important because SHBG binds circulating testosterone and can significantly influence the amount of testosterone that is actually available for use by the body’s tissues. We also initially evaluate luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin when appropriate to help determine whether low testosterone may be related to an underlying testicular or hypothalamic-pituitary cause rather than simply assuming that every low testosterone level should be treated the same way.

Our evaluation also includes blood counts, thyroid function, liver and kidney function, PSA, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and other clinically appropriate health markers. Once testosterone replacement therapy is initiated, laboratory monitoring continues throughout treatment. Particular attention is given to hemoglobin and hematocrit, as testosterone therapy can increase red blood cell production and cause erythrocytosis, as well as PSA and prostate health when clinically appropriate. Testosterone levels and other relevant markers are monitored alongside the patient’s symptoms and clinical response so that treatment can be safely adjusted over time. This comprehensive approach allows us to evaluate why testosterone may be low, how much testosterone is biologically available, and how the patient is responding to therapy, rather than treating a total testosterone number alone.

Once laboratory results are available, patients return to Refyne Medical Aesthetics and Wellness for a dedicated follow-up appointment. We review the results together in detail, answer questions, determine whether testosterone replacement therapy is medically appropriate, and develop an individualized treatment plan. Depending on the patient’s needs and preferences, treatment may include testosterone pellet therapy or testosterone cypionate injections. Patients who elect for hormone replacement therapy receive their pre-treatment instructions electronically so they know exactly how to prepare before their procedure.

Testosterone Pellet Therapy

Testosterone pellet therapy provides a long-acting approach to testosterone replacement. The testosterone used in pellet therapy is bioidentical, meaning it has the same molecular structure as testosterone naturally produced by the human body. The hormone is derived from a plant-based source and formulated into bioidentical testosterone before being prepared in pellet form.

The number and dose of testosterone pellets are individualized before insertion based on the patient’s symptoms, laboratory results, age, body composition, previous testosterone therapy, medical history, and response to prior treatment. This allows treatment to be tailored to the individual patient rather than using a standardized dose for every man.

The Pellet Insertion Procedure

Pellet insertion is a brief, minimally invasive in-office procedure. The skin is thoroughly cleansed and local lidocaine is administered to numb the treatment area. A very small incision is made, and the prescribed testosterone pellets are placed beneath the skin within the subcutaneous fatty tissue. The incision is generally closed with Steri-Strips rather than sutures, and a pressure dressing is applied. Detailed post-treatment instructions are sent electronically following the procedure so patients know how to care for their insertion site and what to expect during recovery.

Once inserted, the pellets slowly dissolve beneath the skin, allowing testosterone to be gradually absorbed into the bloodstream over time rather than delivered as a single dose. This provides sustained hormone delivery between treatments and is designed to provide more continuous testosterone exposure. Treatment intervals are individualized, although men commonly require repeat pellet placement approximately every five to six months, depending on their clinical response and laboratory results.

Testosterone Cypionate Injection Therapy

For patients who prefer injections or for whom pellet therapy may not be the preferred option, Refyne Medical Aesthetics and Wellness also offers testosterone cypionate injection therapy. Unlike the bioidentical testosterone pellets used at Refyne, testosterone cypionate is an esterified form of testosterone designed for intramuscular or subcutaneous administration and prolonged absorption following injection.

Injectable testosterone may also provide an alternative for men with circumstances that make repeat pellet insertion less desirable, including a history of recurrent pellet extrusion, delayed wound healing, or other concerns related to the insertion site. Treatment selection is individualized and discussed with the patient after reviewing the benefits and considerations of each method.

Patients prescribed testosterone cypionate are provided with pre-filled syringes for at-home administration after appropriate education on injection technique and medication use. Depending on the individualized dose and treatment plan, injections may be administered once or twice weekly. Patients return to Refyne Medical Aesthetics and Wellness approximately monthly for ongoing treatment management, with laboratory monitoring performed as clinically appropriate to evaluate testosterone levels, blood counts, treatment response, and safety parameters.

Follow-Up & Ongoing Testosterone Optimization

Treatment does not end when testosterone therapy begins. Follow-up laboratory testing and clinical assessments are used to evaluate testosterone levels, symptom improvement, treatment response, and potential adverse effects. Monitoring may include testosterone levels, hematocrit/hemoglobin, PSA when clinically appropriate, and other laboratory markers based on the patient’s individual health history and treatment plan. Doses may be adjusted over time based on both laboratory findings and clinical response.

Laboratory specimens can be collected conveniently in our clinic, and eligible laboratory testing may be submitted through the patient’s health insurance according to their individual insurance benefits and coverage. Patients can also access their laboratory results through Refyne Medical Aesthetics and Wellness’ patient portal, allowing them to remain informed and actively involved in their treatment.

The goal is not simply to increase a testosterone number—it is to provide thoughtful, medically supervised testosterone replacement that considers the whole patient and evolves with his needs over time. For patients who want to make testosterone optimization part of their ongoing wellness plan, Refyne Medical Aesthetics and Wellness offers a Male Testosterone Replacement Therapy Membership designed to provide continuity of care along with exclusive member benefits on medical weight loss, peptide therapy, hair regeneration, and more. Membership supports ongoing treatment and monitoring while making long-term testosterone management convenient and accessible.

What Does TRT Address?

TRT may help men with low libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue and low energy, loss of muscle mass and strength, increased body fat, low mood or irritability, poor concentration, and reduced bone density. It is appropriate when these symptoms occur together with consistently low testosterone confirmed by labs.

Who Is a Candidate?

Candidates are adult men with symptoms of low testosterone and lab results confirming a deficiency, usually measured on at least two morning tests. TRT may not be appropriate if you have prostate or breast cancer, a high or rising PSA that hasn’t been evaluated, an elevated hematocrit, untreated severe sleep apnea, uncontrolled heart failure, or a recent heart attack or stroke.

Fertility: Testosterone therapy suppresses sperm production. Men who want to father children should discuss alternatives with their provider first.

The TRT Consultation

Your first visit covers your symptoms, medical history, medications and supplements, prior hormone use, lifestyle, and goals. You’ll also learn how the HPG axis works. Baseline labs are drawn in clinic. At a separate results visit, your provider explains your numbers, discusses the possible causes of low testosterone, and helps you choose between pellets and injections.

What to Expect During Treatment

  • Pellets: This is a brief in-office procedure, usually about 15 minutes. The skin, usually on the upper buttock or hip, is cleansed and numbed with lidocaine. Pellets are placed beneath the skin through a very small incision, which is closed with Steri-Strips and covered with a pressure dressing.
  • Injections: Your first visit includes training on injection technique, and you then inject at home on your prescribed schedule.

Recovery and Aftercare

After pellet insertion, most men return to work the same day. Mild soreness or bruising is common. Keep the dressing dry and in place as instructed, and avoid strenuous lower-body exercise, swimming, and hot tubs for several days. Injections involve no downtime. Report any redness, drainage, or pellet extrusion.

Results

Many men notice improved energy, mood, and libido within 3 to 6 weeks. Changes in erectile function, muscle, strength, and body fat build over 3 to 6 months, and bone improvements take longer. Results depend on your dose, adherence, sleep, exercise, nutrition, and overall health. Benefits continue only while therapy continues, with ongoing monitoring.

Why Choose Refyne for TRT?

Refyne’s provider is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with specialized hormone training. Evaluation looks at why testosterone is low, not only at the number. Every patient gets in-clinic labs, a dedicated results visit, and a choice of pellets or injections. Monitoring focuses on hematocrit and PSA. Results are available in the patient portal, and eligible labs may be billed to insurance.

FAQ

How do I know if my testosterone is low?

Only lab testing can confirm it, ideally with morning total and free testosterone and SHBG, interpreted alongside your symptoms.

Pellets or injections: which is better?

Pellets give steady levels with visits every 5 to 6 months. Injections are adjusted weekly and managed monthly. Your provider will help you choose.

Does pellet insertion hurt?

The area is numbed, so most men feel only pressure.

When will I feel results?

Often within a few weeks, with physical changes building over several months.

Will TRT affect fertility?

Yes. Testosterone therapy can lower sperm production, so discuss fertility plans before you start.

Are there risks or side effects?

Possible effects include increased red blood cell counts, acne, fluid retention, breast tenderness, reduced testicular size, and effects on the prostate. This is why regular labs are part of treatment.

Are labs covered by insurance?

Eligible labs may be billed to your insurance, depending on your plan.