While there are a wide variety of health reasons for someone to seek out a dermatologist, including skin cancer, eczema, rashes, psoriasis, warts, acne, and rosacea, many also see the same dermatologist for BOTOX® Cosmetic, chemical peels and to even the skin tone from discolorations. Dermatology as a medical specialty is usually divided into two distinct categories, medical and cosmetic, though they are often practiced by the same dermatologist. Many times there is an overlap between the different dermatological specialties, for example, medical dermatology will treat conditions such as eczema, but cosmetic dermatology will help address scars left by the skin condition. Simply, medical focuses on health while cosmetic focuses on aesthetics. At Adult & Pediatric Dermatology, we offer all facets of dermatology for our patients, focusing on around 90% medical and 10% cosmetic.
Medical Dermatology
Dermatology in its essence is a medical science – even the term is derived from the roots “derma” (meaning skin) and “logia” (meaning study of), meaning that etymologically, a dermatologist is a skin doctor. Yet their scope is much broader. Medical dermatologists treat patients with medical conditions affecting the skin, help with acne, eczema, rosacea and skin cancer, and can involve topical or oral medications, or both. Surgical dermatology, referring to any procedure requiring anesthesia or involving a scalpel, falls under medical dermatology. This includes tumor removal, moles and cancers. At APDKC, we perform all of our surgical procedures in the office under local anesthesia. More extensive surgical procedures are referred to the appropriate specialist.
Medical dermatology is also considered different from cosmetic dermatology by the healthcare industry and insurance companies. It is recommended to have an annual medical dermatology appointment to check for precancerous lesions and other signs of skin cancer. Skin concerns can also be a sign of underlying medical issues that are often caught in yearly routine visits.
At APDKC, we offer a more intensive level of diagnosis and treatment, referred to as “complex medical dermatology”. This refers to patients who feel they have exhausted almost all their options at finding a solution for a persistent or chronic problem that has defied appropriate medical treatment strategies. We strive to be a resource in the region for second- or third-opinion (or beyond) for patients seeking another approach to difficult problems.
Cosmetic Dermatology
Cosmetic dermatology focuses on the aesthetic appearance of the skin by treating signs of aging for a more youthful appearance, helping with fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, unwanted pigments and sun damage, and often involves injectables and medical spa procedures. At APDKC, the cosmetic services we offer are BOTOX® Cosmetic, dermal fillers, chemical peels, and Intense Pulse Light (IPL). We also offer a variety of medical grade therapeutic products that generally contain higher concentrations than those available over-the-counter. We are here to work with you to customize a skin care regimen that is right for you.
At Adult & Pediatric Dermatology, our caring professionals provide full-service dermatology, including both medical and cosmetic. Rest assured, our office is following strict social distancing and sanitation guidelines during these uncertain times during the corona pandemic. Contact our office today at 913-469-1115 for more information and to schedule an appointment.