Education

Dermatology and Mohs Surgery

This common skin condition is the formation of multiple blemishes on or just beneath the surface of the skin. These blemishes commonly appear on the face, neck, chest, shoulders and back. Acne can affect anyone, but it most commonly affects adolescents and young adults.
This is a name for several forms of swelling of the skin. We also call it “dermatitis.” In many people it affects the cheeks, the insides of the elbows, or the skin behind the knees. You may have dermatitis on your hands or feet, or on your buttocks. It isn’t a contagious condition.
This condition is a common skin disease that can cause dry, itchy, painful patches of skin. Psoriasis is a chronic condition.

Focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of both benign and malignant diseases of the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. Patients consult dermatologists for many issues and concerns with their skin, including infections, genetic disorders, and skin cancer. Dermatologists also address cosmetic issues of the skin, such as hair loss, scars, and changes associated with aging.

To help you make the most of your Dermatologist’s appointment

Before the Exam
Remove all nail polish from your fingernails and toenails. Your dermatologist will need to look at your nails and nail beds to see if cancers have formed there.

Perform a full-body skin self-exam and make note of any new, changing, itching, or bleeding moles, growths, or other lesions.

At the Exam
Exams are typically brief. An annual skin exam for a patient who’s never had atypical* (dysplastic) moles usually takes about 10 minutes. The more moles you have, the longer the exam. Dr. Hinckley may biopsy any suspicious-looking growths, which involves removing a small layer of skin for examination under a microscope.

*Atypical moles are benign moles that appear suspicious and could be a risk factor for skin cancer.

Ask Questions and Avoid Mole Misconceptions
Because patients are often uninformed about what they need to look for, it’s easy to fall prey to misconceptions or false causes for concern. For example, many people believe raised moles are dangerous. Although all moles should be checked by a dermatologist, raised moles are typically nothing to worry about.

Be sure to ask Dr. Hinckley or his physician assistant any questions you might have. From the spelling of unfamiliar terms to recommendations for further research, Granger Medical dermatology is ready to answer your questions and address your concerns. You may want to take notes for reference.

Don’t forget to ask Dr. Hinckley or his physician assistant to closely examine any moles, growths, or lesions you noted during your skin self-exam.