Dermatologic surgery is that discipline which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the skin, hair, nails, mucous membranes and adjacent tissues by various surgical methods. It is a means of repairing and/or improving the function and appearance of skin tissue.

Dermatologic surgery is a sub-specialty of dermatology, one of 23 medical and surgical specialties recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Who is a Dermatologic Surgeon?

A dermatologic surgeon is trained and experienced in the use of a wide variety of surgical and non-surgical modalities to treat and entire organ - the skin - and its problems. A dermatologic surgeon demonstrates competence in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of:

• Diseases and disorders of the skin, hair, nails, veins and mucous membranes
• Benign and malignant growths and skin cancers
• Aging and sun-damaged skin<
• Cosmetic improvement of the skin

What training does a Dermatologic Surgeon receive?

Dermatologic surgeons are physicians who have completed an internship and at least three additional years of specialized training in the medical and surgical treatment of skin disorders, including a core curriculum in the therapeutic, reconstructive and cosmetic treatment of skin conditions. Clinical training in residency programs nationwide focuses on the treatment of allergies and immunology, cryosurgery, dermatologic surgery, laser surgery, dermatopathology, clinical pathology, parasitology, photobiology physiotherapy, topical and systemic pharmacology and microbiology, including sexually transmitted diseases. As a group, most dermatologic surgeons are board certified by the American Board of Dermatology.