FAQ

General Questions  |  Aesthetic Questions  |  Medical Questions  |  Billing Questions

 

General Questions

Q.  What is a dermatologist?

A.  Dermatologists are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the skin, hair and nails.  They attend four years of medical school, an internship and three years of advanced training in dermatology.  They must also complete and pass a series of comprehensive exams given by the American Board of Dermatology in order to become board-certified.

 

Q.  What medical conditions do dermatologists treat?

A.  Listed below are a few of the different medical conditions related to skin, hair and nails that dermatologists treat.  These conditions can occur inpatients of all ages, from infancy to adulthood.

  • Skin cancer (all types)
  • Acne (adolescent and adult)
  • Chronic wounds and scares (keloids, etc.)
  • Psoriasis, eczema and rosacea
  • Nail fungus and infections
  • Blistering disorders such as pemphigus vulgaris and bullous pemphigoid
  • Skin infections of all types
  • Hair loss and/or scalp disorders
  • Autoimmune diseases such as lupus, scleroderma and dermatomyostis

For more information about dermatology, please reference our Patient Library.

 

Aesthetic Questions

Q.  How does laser tattoo removal work?

A.  The laser delivers high intensity light impulses of a few billionths of a second into the treated area.  The tattoo inks selectively absorb the light without damaging the normal surrounding skin tissue in the process.  The tattoo ink is broken into smaller particles that are then harmlessly removed by the body in the weeks following treatment.

 

Q.  How many treatments will it require to remove a tattoo?

A.  Removing a professionally applied tattoo is usually a fading process that requires a series of treatments of at least eight weeks.  Professional tattoos usually require 5-10 treatment sessions for satisfactory clearing.  The depth, color and amount of ink, as well as the location of the tattoo on the body, are all determining factors in how quickly the tattoo can be removed.  Most amateur "street tattoos" and traumatic tattoos are removed in fewer treatments.

 

Q.  Is laser hair removal permanent?

A.  The LightSheer laser has been cleared by the FDA for hair removal and permanent hair reduction on all skin types and tanned skin.  To achieve a satisfactory level of clearance, 3-6 treatments are typically required.  Maintenance may be necessary on a yearly basis for certain areas.

 

Q.  Does laser hair removal hurt?

A.  The laser treatment may cause some discomfort.  Most patients tolerate the procedure very well, but because some areas of the body are more sensitive than others, topical anesthesia is an available option.

 

For more information about aesthetic and/or cosmetic procedures, please reference our Patient Library.

 

Medical Questions

Q.  Is skin cancer hereditary?

A.  In some cases, yes.  Because skin types are hereditary, the chances of skin cancer are higher if there is a history of skin cancer in the family.  Other risk factors include sun exposure, severe sunburns and the lack of proper sunscreen protection.

 

Q.  What is the most dangerous form of skin cancer?

A.  Melanoma is the most severe form of skin cancer.  In addition, basal cell and squamos cell cancers can also be potentially dangerous if not treated and monitored.

 

Q.  What is the most effective level of sun screen protection?

A.  In terms of everyday use, SPF 15 is ideal for most skin types.  If you are going to be in the sun longer than two hours, sunscreen must be reapplied to afford adequate protection.  If you anticipate participating in an activity outdoors for several hours, SPF 40 or higher is recommended and should also be reapplied every few hours.

 

Q.  Can I get acne as an adult?

A.  Yes, anyone can get acne at any age.  The best recommendation is to get treatment to avoid permanent scarring.

 

Q.  At what age does one stop growing moles?

A.  Everyone's body is different, but moles may appear even through mid-life.

 

For more medical-related information, please visit our Patient Library.

 

Billing Questions

Q.  Does my insurance cover dermatology services?

A.  Many insurance plans cover dermatology procedures, but you may have a "pre-existing" condition that is not covered.  It is best to contact your insurance provider for specific information about your plan.

 

Q.  What will a visit to the dermatologist cost?

A.  It depends on the complexity of the visit and if any procedures are done.  The co-payments and deductibles are different for each insurance plan.  Please contact your insurance carrier for more information.

 

Q.  Does the office accept payment plans?

A.  The office makes every effort to work with patients by accepting credit card payments. We also offer CareCredit, a medical/dental creditor.  In certain circumstances, we may negotiate a private payment plan.

 

Q.  Do you accept my insurance?

A.  We accept most major insurance providers.  For more information, please contact our office at 214-303-1102.

 

Q.  Does the office accept Medicare?

A.  Yes, we will file with Medicare and your secondary insurance (if any).  If there is a balance, you will receive a statement.

 

For more information about billing, please contact our office at 214-303-1102, ext. 6.