FAQs

Dermatology is the branch of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases, a unique specialist with both medical, cosmetic, and surgical aspects. A dermatologist takes care of diseases and cosmetic problems of the skin, and scalp. hair, and nails.

At Dermatology Affiliates, our providers are expertly trained in the diagnosis and treatment of various conditions of the hair, skin, and nails. This includes common conditions such as acne, rosacea, psoriasis, dermatitis, suspicious moles, hair loss, and more. We can diagnose skin cancer through Total Body Skin Exams (TBSEs) and offer treatments such as Mohs Micrographic Surgery. If you have a chronic skin issue,  suspicious mole, or skin cancer, schedule an appointment with one of our trusted skin experts.

We recommend getting a total body skin exam once a year and doing regular self-exams at home as well. If you notice a suspicious growth, schedule an appointment with your dermatology provider immediately. 

Melanoma is a potentially dangerous type of skin cancer. It is diagnosed less frequently than other types of skin cancer (non-melanoma skin cancer), but has the ability to spread very quickly. Melanoma most often begins on the skin but can develop on the other parts of the body, such as under fingernails, toenails and the eyeball.

Change in an existing mole is usually the first experienced symptom in people with melanoma. A new suspicious skin mole is also something that should raise red flags. Learning the difference between a normal mole and an abnormal mole can help with self-skin exams at home. The ABCDEs of melanoma can help you discern between what is normal and what may need further evaluation by a dermatology provider.

(A) Asymmetry: when one half of a mole or mark is different from the other half

(B) Border: the edges of the mole or mark are scalloped, uneven, notched, or irregular

(C)  Color: the mole or mark is not a uniform color throughout; it can be different shades of the same color, or pink, red, or white in a spot that is otherwise brown or black

(D) Diameter: if the mole or mark is 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser) or larger, it could be a melanoma, BUT it’s also possible for melanoma to be smaller than 6 mm

(E)  Evolving: the mole or mark is changing in size, shape, color, or texture

If you notice any of these warning signs, it is important to schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists immediately. It is important to note that note that not all melanomas show these warning signs.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma begins in the basal cells — a type of cell within the skin that produces new skin cells as old ones die off. Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a waxy bump, though it can take other forms. Basal cell carcinoma occurs most often on areas of the skin that are often exposed to the sun, such as your face and neck. Most basal cell carcinomas are thought to be caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. Avoiding the sun and using sunscreen may help protect against basal cell carcinoma.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common form of skin cancer that develops in the thin, flat squamous cells that make up the outer layer of the skin. Squamous cell carcinoma is usually not life-threatening, though it can be aggressive in some cases. Untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can grow large or spread to other parts of your body, causing serious complications. Most squamous cell carcinomas result from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, either from sunlight or from tanning beds or lamps. Avoiding UV light helps reduce your risk of squamous cell carcinoma and other forms of skin cancer.

Mohs micrographic surgery is the most effective and advanced treatment for skin cancer today. It offers the highest potential for cure – even if the skin cancer has been previously treated by another method. Mohs micrographic surgery involves removing a skin cancer one layer at a time and examining these layers under a microscope immediately after they are removed. This procedure allows for a close examination of each layer of skin to detect cancer cells. It also allows a minimal amount of tissue to be removed while ensuring complete removal of all the cancer cells. A local anesthetic is injected into the skin before the surgery. The doctor then begins to remove the skin cancer and a small amount of healthy tissue, one layer of skin at a time. Each tissue layer is prepared and examined under the microscope for cancer cells. Surgery is complete when no more cancer cells are detected.

When arriving for your first appointment, bring your driver's license or picture ID, insurance card, and co-pay. You can fill out patient forms here before your visit.

Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment to avoid delays.

Yes, you need to bring your insurance card every visit. The Insurance Commissioner for the State of Georgia has asked that insurance cards be checked at each visit to protect against insurance fraud.

Your insurance company also requires us to check your card at each visit to confirm that we have the most current card and to protect against insurance fraud.

In most cases, we do not require you to have a referral to our office. Please contact your insurance company to see if your policy requires you to have one.

This depends on your specific insurance plan. However, we find most skin cancer screenings and general dermatology visits are covered by our patient’s insurance. Please contact your insurance company with any further questions regarding your policy.