Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions and diseases of the skin, hair and nails. Skin is the largest organ in the body, dermatologists have a broad array of knowledge and skill sets relating to the skin as well as any signs and symptoms that would indicate something is abnormal on or in the skin. To develop this expertise, dermatologists are required to complete 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, 3 years of residency, 1 to 2 years of a fellowship, and licensing and certification. Dermatologists treat everything from acne to cancer. Although many dermatologists can do surgery, it is possible for patients to be referred to a specialist dependent upon the results of lab tests or other diagnoses. 

Common surgeries that dermatologists do include electrosurgery, cryosurgery, laser surgery, excision surgery, Mohs surgery, mole removal and vein treatment. Dermatologic surgery is essential for the removal of skin cancers and suspected skin cancers. These include melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and rare skin tumors. Surgery by a dermatologist may also include the removal of common, yet benign growths such as moles or seborrheic keratoses. Cosmetic surgical procedures that may be performed by a dermatologist include dermabrasion, eyelid surgery, scar treatment, hair replacement, liposuction and suction curettage. In most cases, dermatologic surgery accounts for a simple ellipse excision of a skin tumor and is an outpatient procedure with a local anesthetic that is completed in the doctor’s office. 

Although not classified as surgery, biopsies are quite commonly performed by dermatologists to diagnose or rule out certain conditions or cancers. Biopsies include shave biopsies that remove small sections of the top layer of skin, punch biopsies that remove small, circular sections of skin including deep layers, and excision biopsies that remove either deep layers of skin or an entire area of skin that appears unhealthy. 

Dermatologists are a great resource for all questions related to the skin, hair and nails. Dermatologists can provide diagnosis and treatment for just about any medical or cosmetic concern related to the skin. THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology highly recommends annual skin screenings to ensure the health of your skin. Give our office a call today to set up your appointment by calling 602-867-7546 or visiting online at WEBSITE.