Choosing a Dermatologist

When choosing a dermatologist, it's important to select a practitioner with the training, expertise, and reputation you deserve.

Choosing a Dermatologist

Your skin is your body’s first defense, often the first thing people notice when they look at you. Skin issues can seriously impact your life, whether it’s wrinkles, psoriasis, or melanoma. Dermatologists understand what’s causing your problem and how to treat it; that’s why you shouldn’t entrust it to anyone other than the best dermatologist, such as Dr. Chiang. If you’re seeing a dermatologist for the first time or it’s been a while since your last appointment, we’re here to help you choose with the following tips.

Look for a FAAD and Other Credentials

No one understands your skin better than a board-certified dermatologist.

Board certification tells you that the doctor has the necessary training, skills, and experience to provide healthcare in dermatology. FAAD stands for “Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.” and tells you that the dermatologist is board certified. If a dermatologist is board certified, like Dr. Chiang, you’ll see FAAD after their name.

The more experienced and trained your dermatologist is, the more likely they have a wide breadth of experience necessary to offer diverse treatment options for your skin issue. When considering a potential dermatologist, ask the following questions:

Are they Board Certified in Dermatology? Certification organizations include the American
Board of Dermatology and the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology.
Where did they go to school?
Have they completed any fellowships?
What do they specialize in?

Check Referrals and Reviews

Start with a referral list of dermatologists from your primary care doctor before asking family, friends, and other healthcare providers for recommendations. Research the doctors’ credentials and experience, then call each dermatologist’s office to see if they accept new patients.

And don’t forget the check their reviews; most dermatologists will have a selection displayed on their websites, but you can also check their Facebook page and Google reviews to see what else comes up. Reading what others say about a doctor can provide insight into the following:

How a doctor practices medicine
How their medical practice is operated
Scheduling appointments
Wait times
The office environment
Office staff friendliness
How well patients trust the doctor
How much time they spend with their patients
How well they answer questions

Find Someone You Trust

It’s essential to work with a dermatologist who makes you feel comfortable. Patient interaction is the difference between an excellent dermatologist and a great one. If your dermatologist makes you feel unimportant or like another number, you should find one who will treat you with respect and care you deserve.

Here are some tips for choosing a dermatologist with whom you’re comfortable talking and who supports your information needs:

When you first meet the dermatologist, ask a question and notice how they respond
Consider whether they welcome your questions and answer them in ways that you can understand
Consider whether you felt rushed or engaged during your consultation
Find a dermatologist interested in getting to know you and who will consider your treatment preferences while respecting your decision-making process

Your ideal dermatologist will give you honest, straightforward guidance on the best approach to your situation and the realistic results you can expect. If your condition requires recovery, they will also suggest a timeline based on your medical history and help you recover.

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Choose a Qualified Dermatologist

Finding a board-certified dermatologist who has plenty of experience with your concerns is critical to getting the results you desire. Choosing an experienced and board-certified dermatologist you connect with can help you toward a happier, more confident you.

Dr. Melissa Chiang is a board-certified dermatologist with a highly specialized skill set combining aesthetic dermatology with injectable procedures and modalities. Her specialty is full-face rejuvenation with a focus on natural beauty. She has practiced for over fifteen years and has treated thousands of patients, creating a boutique practice that gives patients unparalleled attention to detail and results. Dr. Chiang’s patients appreciate her honesty, integrity, attention to detail, and how she takes the time to listen. To learn more about Dr. Chiang, click here.