Medical Services
Acne
Acne is the term for the blocked pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) that can appear typically on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms. Seventeen million Americans currently have acne, making it the most common skin disease in the country. While it affects mostly teenagers, and almost all teenagers have some form of acne, adults of any age can have it. Acne is not life-threatening, but it can cause physical disfigurement (scarring) and emotional distress.Treatments for acne and acne scars vary depending on the type and severity of lesions, as well as the patient’s skin type, age and lifestyle.
Options include:
• Personalized Topical Medications
• Antibiotics
• Accutane – for severe cases only
• Extractions
• Laser treatment for red scars
• Laser treatment for surface scars
• Chemical Peels
• Soft Tissue Fillers
AviClear
AviClear is the first and only FDA-cleared energy-device for the treatment of mild, moderate, and severe acne. It’s a laser treatment that can safely and effectively treat all skin types by targeting acne at the source. This revolutionary laser treatment uses a 1726nm wavelength to selectively target and down-regulate the sebaceous glands. Overproduction of sebum by the sebaceous glands is one of the leading causes of acne. AviClear is free of harmful side effects, chemicals, and toxins, and takes three quick 30-minute treatment sessions over 3 months.
Clinical trials demonstrate that current and future breakout episodes are shorter, less intense, and more infrequent following the AviClear procedure. Further, acne clearance results continue to improve over time, demonstrating the long-term efficacy of this novel treatment.
Anti-Aging / Sun Damage / Sun Spots
Christie Kidd, PA-C, and her team treat a variety of skin conditions relating to aging, sun damage and sun spots. Through various treatments such as
Cutera’s LimeLight or Cutera Pearl Laser Skin Resurfacing the Christie Kidd, PA-C team can treat your needs.
Eczema
About 15 million of people in the U.S. suffer from some form of eczema, including a large percentage of infants and children. Symptoms vary from person to person but often include dry, red, itchy patches on the skin. If untreated and chronically scratched, eczema can potentially become infected.All eczema patients need to increase their use of moisturizing lotions and decrease the length and temperature of their shower or bath. Treatment options include corticosteroids creams and ointments, antihistamines, and non-corticosteroid creams and ointments such as protopic or elidel. Oral anbitiotics can be prescribed in cases of an infection. With a few lifestyle changes and treatment options, most cases of eczemacan be well controlled.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that appears as silvery white scaly plaques. Over seven million men and women in the U.S of all ages have some form of psoriasis. The most commonly affected areas are the scalp, elbows, knees, hands, feet and genitals.Psoriasis cannot be cured but it can be managed successfully. Treatment depends on the type, severity and location of psoriasis; the patients age, medical history, and the effect the condition has on the patient’s quality of life. The most common treatments are topical medications, phototherapy, and oral or injectable medication (for severe cases).
Moles
Moles or “nevi” are composed of groups of pigment producing cells called melanocytes. They are important to monitor because of their potential risk for turning into malignant melanoma. Dypslastic moles, which are clinically and microspically atypical in appearance, are putative precursor lesions of melanoma. All patients should have a year mole exam to screen for melanoma and other skin cancers. People with numerous moles or a family history of melanoma should be carefully monitored with more frequent full skin examinations. It is important to watch for any change in color, size, or shape of exisiting moles and to let us know if these changes occur. Moles may be removed because they are clinically worrisome.
Rosacea
Rosacea, frequently referred to as “adult acne”, is a chronic skin condition involving inflammation of the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead, and\/or eyelids. It is characterized by redness, broken blood vessels, and flushing of the face. Patients may also experience pimples, swelling, and a burning or stinging sensation. Rosacea is often seen in patients with lighter skin color although we do see it in all skin types. Triggers for rosacea include aclohol, caffeine, spicy foods, sunlight, and extreme temperature changes among others. There is no cure for rosacea, but fortunately, there are many treatment options.Topical creams and gels, oral antibiotics, and laser treatment for broken blood vessels are just a few of these options available to our patients.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. The most common types are Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma. The most common locations for these cancers are on the head, face, neck, hands and arms. Any growth that is not healing, bleeds, or is changing should be evaluated to rule out skin cancer. Most patients need yearly skin cancer screenings.Melanoma is a less common but more dangerous form of skin cancer. Melanoma is usually characterized by asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven color, or large diameter. Melanoma can spread to lymph nodes and other internal organs. Early detection is important for a better prognosis.
Warts
Warts are common growths that can appear anywhere on the body. They are caused by various strains of the Human Papilloma Virus or HPV. Warts can be extremely stubborn to treat but will ultimately resolve once your immune system mounts a response.We offer a multitude of treatment options for warts. We find that what works best for one person may not work as well for another. We utilize a full arsenal of wart treatments including liquid nitrogen, podophllyn, and surgical treatment among others. We also recommend over-the-counter salicylic acid treatments between office visits. We may also recommend prescription creams to boost your immune response. Warts can be extremely frustrating, but with a little persistence, we can help you make them disappear.
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating is dependent on a chemical neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Botox acts by blocking the release of acetylcholine. Hyperhidrosis is commonly seen in the underarms, hands and feet. Botox injections into these areas safely reduces sweating for six month or longer. Contrary to many oral medications and surgery, Botox injections for hyperhidrosis have minimal side effects. There are no effects on sweating elsewhere or on body temperature regulation. Botox is a great treatment for hyperhidrosis patients that are irritated or sensitive to antiperspirants.