the doctors' corner

                With the rapid proliferation of medical spas (Medi-spas) which are spas operated by physicians or in some cases, nurse practitioners, it becomes important to understand the differences in training of physicians of different specialties.  Dermatology is a branch of medicine dealing with the skin and its appendages (hair, nails, sweat glands, etc.).  A medical doctor who specializes in dermatology is a dermatologist.

                Dermatologists are physicians specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and tumors of the skin.  The practice of dermatology includes medical and surgical treatment with dermatologic surgeons practicing skin cancer surgery (including Mohs micrographic surgery), laser surgery, photodynamic therapy (PDT) and cosmetic procedures using botulinum toxin (Botox, Dysport), soft tissue fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane, Rejuveness, etc.), and sclerotherapy.  Dermatologists are also trained in interpreting tissue specimens microscopically (histopathology), pediatric dermatology, the diagnosis of immunologically mediated skin diseases, and in the diagnosis and treatment of congenital dermatologic syndromes.

                Residency training for physicians in all medical specialties varies.  A minimum of 8 years of college and post graduate training is required to become a physician in the United States and Canada.  For dermatology, this includes graduation from a 4-year college and a 4-year medical school followed by an internship year of post graduate training in medicine, surgery or pediatrics, after which a physician may apply for admission to graduate dermatology residency training.  Dermatology residencies are among the most competitive in terms of admission.  Following the successful completion of three years of formal residency training in dermatology, the physician is qualified to take certifying board examinations by the American Board of Dermatology.  Once board certified, dermatologists become Diplomats of the American Board of Dermatology.  Dermatologists are required to recertify in dermatology every 10 years, but must obtain continuing education training on an ongoing basis.

                Dermatologists are extensively trained to examine, diagnose and treat skin diseases and are uniquely capable of caring for skin issues.  Who better to care for your skin than a dermatologist?