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evidence-based
blending time-tested therapies with cutting-edge scientific research.
individualized
treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
comprehensive
thorough assessment and ongoing support to address all facets of your health journey.
About Dr. Zey
Dr. Zeynep Akkuyu
is a devoted naturopathic physician practicing in Vancouver. Dr. Zey embarked on her journey in healthcare by earning a Bachelor of Applied Science from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University). Eager to deepen her understanding of natural medicine, she earned her Doctor of Naturopathy degree, setting the stage for a distinguished career dedicated to patient-centred care and transformative medicine. For nine years, she volunteered in long-term care and palliative care settings in Toronto, enriching her understanding of medicine, compassion and community. Additionally, she completed an internship at the Toronto Birth Centre, a pioneering midwife-led facility specializing in pregnancy, labor and lactation care, further refining her understanding of women’s health. These valuable experiences have instilled in Dr. Zey a deep sense of empathy and a comprehensive approach to patient care at every stage of life.
Dr. Zey is accepting new patients both in person and virtually at Polo Health + Longevity Centre, where she works alongside a wonderful team of NDs, MDs, compounding pharmacists and allied health. In addition, Dr. Zey provides medical aesthetic treatments at Urban Body Laser, bringing confidence to downtown Vancouver.
Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Zey is a dedicated faculty member at CCNM-Boucher campus, inspiring and shaping the next generation of healthcare practitioners. Her commitment to education reflects her belief in the power of knowledge to transform lives.
Dr. Zey is a registrant in good standing with the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia. She is also a member of the British Columbia Naturopathic Association and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
To provide her patients with the best possible care, Dr. Zey has additional training in:
- Pharmaceutical Prescribing
- IV therapy
- Advanced IV therapy
- Cosmetic Neuromodulators (Botox, Nuceiva, Dysport, Xeomin)
- Therapeutic Neuromodulators (Botox Therapeutic)
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
- Lasers and Skincare
- BCCDC Immunization Competency
- Naturopathic Advanced Life Support
- Hormone Replacement Therapy
Conditions Treated
Dr. Zey has a clinical focus in:
Thyroid Disease
Drawing from lifelong learning and navigating the challenges of her own thyroid health, she employs evidence-based therapies to address thyroid disorders including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease, Grave’s disease and subclinical hypothyroidism. Her approach seeks to provide sustainable solutions to the complex problems posed by thyroid conditions like fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, menstrual irregularities, mood changes among others.
Fatigue, Energy and Longevity
Recognizing the pervasive impact of fatigue on daily life, Dr. Zey utilizes strategies to identify and address the underlying causes, helping patients regain their energy and vitality. She provides comprehensive testing, and preventative treatments to support healthy aging and general wellness.
Women’s Health
Guiding women through the various stages of life, Dr. Zey provides support for conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, hormonal health, menstrual irregularities, PMS/PMDD, perimenopause and menopausal symptoms.
Skin, Anti-Aging and Medical Aesthetics
Dr. Zey understands the connection between dermatological health and overall well-being. She treats acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, perioral dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, skin texture, skin aging, wrinkles among other skin concerns as well as male and female hair loss.
Naturally beautiful transformations.
Medical Aesthetics
Dr. Zey has undertaken additional training with the International Institute of Aesthetic Medicine. She is dedicated to achieving natural, elegant results for her patients.
Platelet-rich plasma is a natural, safe, quick and effective treatment using your own blood and its growth factors. Once plasma is separated, it is reinjected into the dermis to stimulate the natural process of cell regeneration and collagen production. PRP is a non-surgical, low risk treatment with minimal down time. Most commonly, it is applied on the face, under eyes, neck and scalp, although PRP can be applied almost anywhere on the body. PRP may be done independently for hair restoration, or before, during or after a hair transplant.
Exosome skin treatment is an advanced skincare procedure that harnesses the regenerative power of exosomes, tiny extracellular vesicles derived from stem cells. These exosomes contain growth factors, proteins, and other molecules that facilitate cellular communication and tissue repair. When applied to the skin, exosomes can promote collagen production, improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall skin rejuvenation. The treatment is prized for its ability to address fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and sun damage, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional cosmetic procedures. Exosome skin treatments are suitable for most skin types and can be used to complement other skincare routines for lasting results.
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves the use of a device containing fine needles to create tiny punctures in the top layer of the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural wound healing processes, leading to increased collagen and elastin production. This helps improve the skin’s texture and firmness, reduces the appearance of scars, wrinkles and stretch marks, and enhances overall skin tone. Microneedling is also known to enhance the absorption of topical skincare products, making them more effective. The procedure is generally well-tolerated and suitable for various skin types, offering noticeable results with minimal downtime. Microneedling may be combined with PRP and exosome therapy for best results.
Neuromodulators like Botox are substances that temporarily relax muscles by blocking nerve signals. Neuromodulators are used to prevent and treat wrinkles caused by muscle contractions, such as forehead lines and crow’s feet. The procedure is minimally invasive and provides results that typically last several months.
Dr. Zey uses a conservative approach to provide natural and effective results.
Prior to its use in aesthetics, Botox was originally used for therapeutic use. Therapeutic Botox provides relief of jaw pain, TMJ disorder, hyperhidrosis (sweating of hands, feet, underarms), migraines and headaches. Therapeutic Botox may be covered by your insurance plan.
Dr. Zey has additional training in professional skincare and prescription treatments. She works alongside compounding pharmacists to formulate prescription topicals with effective amounts of active compounds, beyond what is commercially available.
Cosmetic acupuncture is a holistic approach to skincare that utilizes traditional Chinese medicine techniques to enhance facial appearance and promote overall skin health. This non-invasive procedure involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the face and body to stimulate circulation, promote collagen production, and improve muscle tone. Cosmetic acupuncture aims to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging, while also improving skin texture and complexion. Unlike surgical interventions, cosmetic acupuncture is gentle, natural, and works synergistically with the body’s own healing mechanisms to achieve a more youthful and radiant appearance over a series of treatments.
IV therapy for skin aging might come as a surprise to some, but it represents a cutting-edge approach in aesthetics. By delivering a potent infusion of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants directly into the bloodstream, this treatment bypasses the digestive system for maximum absorption and effectiveness. The infusion of nutrients involved in collagen production, skin elasticity and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and glutathione is the rationale for IV therapy for beauty from the inside out. This holistic approach addresses skin aging from within, helping to diminish fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots while enhancing overall skin texture and radiance by providing the body with the nutrients it needs.
Take the guesswork out of your health. Using validated tests can help to diagnose, manage and ensure that you’re on the right track.
Blood tests are important for disease detection and diagnosis as well as monitoring health and treatment progress. Lab work can screen for risk factors and assess organ function. Ultimately, this piece of critical information helps to dictate treatment decisions.
Acupuncture is a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine, involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points throughout the body. Acupuncture provides effective relief for various conditions like chronic pain, stress, anxiety, and digestive issues among many other uses.
Cosmetic acupuncture is a type of acupuncture aimed at rejuvenating the skin, to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and enhance collagen production.
Platelet-rich plasma is a natural, safe, quick and effective treatment using your own blood and its growth factors. Once the plasma is separated, it is reinjected into the dermis to stimulate the natural process of cell regeneration and collagen production. PRP is a non-surgical, low risk treatment with minimal down time. Most commonly, it is applied on the face, under eyes, neck and scalp, although PRP can be applied almost anywhere on the body.
Exosome skin treatment is an advanced skincare procedure that harnesses the regenerative power of exosomes, tiny extracellular vesicles derived from stem cells. These exosomes contain growth factors, proteins, and other molecules that facilitate cellular communication and tissue repair. When applied to the skin, exosomes can promote collagen production, improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall skin rejuvenation. The treatment is prized for its ability to address fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and sun damage, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional cosmetic procedures. Exosome skin treatments are suitable for most skin types and can be used to complement other skincare routines for lasting results.
Intravenous (IV) therapy involves the direct infusion of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system for rapid absorption and delivering essential nutrients directly to cells. It is especially important for those who have reduced absorption, or are unable to tolerate doses orally. This efficient method offers a boost of hydration, energy, and targeted nutrients, aiding in recovery, immune support, hydration, and overall wellness. Being able to compound IV nutrients for individual needs is a key factor in individualized care.
Prescription drugs are often used to treat specific medical conditions, manage symptoms, or prevent diseases. They can include a wide range of medications, such as antibiotics, pain relievers, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and more, tailored to individual patient needs and medical requirements.
Compounded medications are customized pharmaceutical preparations created by pharmacists to meet the specific needs of individual patients. These medications are prepared by combining or altering pharmaceutical ingredients based on a prescription order from a licensed healthcare provider. Compounded medications are often used when commercially available medications are not suitable due to factors such as allergies, intolerances, dosage requirements, or the need for unique formulations (e.g., liquid, topical creams, suppositories) that are not readily available. Examples of compounded medications include customized hormone therapy (like bioidentical hormones or desiccated thyroid hormones), and specialty dermatology preparations.
Strategic supplementation involves the targeted use of supplements to address specific nutritional needs or health goals in a strategic manner. It entails carefully selecting and integrating supplements into an individual’s diet and lifestyle based on factors such as nutritional deficiencies, health conditions, lifestyle factors, and personal goals. The goal of strategic supplementation is to optimize overall health and well-being by providing additional nutrients that may be lacking in the diet or that support specific health outcomes, such as immune function, energy levels, athletic performance, or cognitive health.
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves the use of a device containing fine needles to create tiny punctures in the top layer of the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural wound healing processes, leading to increased collagen and elastin production. This helps improve the skin’s texture and firmness, reduces the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and stretch marks, and enhances overall skin tone. Microneedling is also known to enhance the absorption of topical skincare products, making them more effective. The procedure is generally well-tolerated and suitable for various skin types, offering noticeable results with minimal downtime.
Botanical medicine utilizes the therapeutic properties of various plant parts such as leaves, roots, flowers, and seeds to promote health, prevent illness, and treat various medical conditions. Botanical medicine can provide an effective and safe treatment to a multitude of health concerns. Some medications have historically been derived from plant compounds, including aspirin, digoxin, quinine, morphine, ephedrine and more.
Intramuscular injections involve the administration of substances directly into the muscle tissue. This route of administration allows for the rapid absorption of the injected substance into the bloodstream, providing systemic effects that would otherwise not be achievable through oral supplementation. Common nutrients administered through intramuscular injections include B12, B complex, Vitamin D, NAD, MIC, and some amino acids.
Neuromodulators like Botox are substances that temporarily relax muscles by blocking nerve signals. Neuromodulators are used to prevent and treat wrinkles caused by muscle contractions, such as forehead lines and crow’s feet. The procedure is minimally invasive and provides results that typically last several months.
Dr. Zey uses a conservative approach to provide natural and effective results.
Prior to its use in aesthetics, Botox was originally used for therapeutic use. Therapeutic Botox provides relief of jaw pain, TMJ disorder, hyperhidrosis (sweating of hands, feet, underarms), migraines and headaches. Therapeutic Botox may be covered by your insurance plan.
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