Acne Treatment
Approximately 90% of all people will experience some form of acne during their life. Acne can occur all over the body, but most frequently is found on the face. We treat acne with a variety of topical and oral medications. We also offer Microdermabrasion, PhotoRejuvenation, and Chemical Peels which can substantially improve acne as well as the appearance of acne scarring and pigment irregularities.

Moles (back to top)
Moles are a skin irregularity. People are often born with moles, but they can also appear over the course of a lifetime. Sun exposure plays a significant role in the growth of new moles and altering their shape and size. It can also cause the moles to become atypical, which may be associated with melanoma. Early detection of abnormal moles is pivotal. A complete skin examination is recommended at least once per year, and more often in certain circumstances. We offer a remarkable diagnostic tool called “Dermascopy” that allows the dermatologist to look into the mole below the surface of the skin.

Wart Removal (back to top)
Warts are caused by a virus (the Human Papilloma Virus, HPV), and there are many different types of warts that occur both adults and children. Depending on the type of wart, its location, and the age of the patient, Southeastern Dermatology Consultatant will choose which treatment is the best for you. Destructive methods such as freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen or burning them with an acid are the most common treatments. However, when there are multiple warts or the warts are in difficult to treat locations a technique called immunotherapy may be attempted. Using this treatment method, the body’s own immune system is activated against the warts leading to their natural removal.

Rosacea (back to top)
Rosacea is a common problem associated with redness appearing across the face, mainly over the cheeks, chin, and nose. The redness can persist and become darker and is linked with the development of noticeable blood vessels. A bumpy appearance can develop along with pimples if this condition is not treated.This condition is frequently made worse by certain trigger factors; most commonly smoking, consuming alcoholic beverages, and consuming caffeinated beverages. Individuals who are experiencing rosacea should seek treatment as the condition may worsen and become disfiguring. A variety of topical and oral treatments are available. These are especially effective against the papules and pustules associated with Rosacea. The redness and blood vessels are more difficult to treat. Fortunately, Southeastern Dermatology Consultants has a state-of-the-art IPL/Laser system that can effectively treat these problems as well. Photorejuvenation treatments can be used to even skin tone and texture and to remove the blood vessels. Dr. Doppelt can set up a treatment plan that will work best for your rosacea.

Skin Cancer (back to top)
Skin cancer is the most common malignancy diagnosed in the United States. It is estimated that one in forty to one in fifty Americans past the age of 65 will develop at least one skin cancer. Statistically, the three most frequently diagnosed skin cancers are: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma. The Skin Cancer Foundation, The American Academy of Dermatology ,and The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology all recommend at least a yearly complete skin examination. When asked what to look for, Dr. Doppelt likes to say, “I keep it simple. Any lesion that becomes larger, bleeds, and does not heal in a reasonable amount of time (approximately 6 weeks) needs to be evaluated.”

Basal Cell Carcinoma (back to top)
Skin cancer has become a very common concern in our society. Almost 800,000 Americans are affected every year by its most common form, basal cell carcinoma. The factor most predominant in the development of basal cell carcinoma is overexposure to the sun. Treatment for basal cell carcinoma depends on the size, type, and location of the lesion. Treatment can range from utilizing a newly approved cream called Aldara, to surgical procedures such as electrodessication and curettage (“scraping and burning”) to surgical excision. Dr. Doppelt also performs an advanced surgical technique called frozen section surgical excision. With this method, the skin cancer is removed with a thin rim of normal appearing tissue. While the patient relaxes in the office, this specimen is sent to the pathologist who evaluates the surgical margins for signs of remaining tumor. This excision and evaluation process is continued until the tumor has been completely removed. This spares the removal of the most normal tissue making the closure of resulting defect cosmetically more acceptable. Dr. Doppelt, depending on the stage and location of the cancer will determine the best treatment plan.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (back to top)
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer. Squamous cells are found in the epidermis and comprise most of the upper layers of skin. Squamous cell cancers can occur anywhere on the body but are most commonly found in places that receive sun exposure. It is most commonly found on the scalp, face, neck, hands, and arms due to their increased exposure. It is rare, but squamous cell cancers can spread into internal tissue and organs. In this situation squamous cell carcinoma can become fatal. Treatment for squamous cell carcinoma depends on the size, type, and location of the lesion. Treatment usually involves a surgical procedure such as electrodessication and curettage (“scraping and burning”) or surgical excision. Dr. Doppelt may also perform an advanced surgical technique called frozen section surgical excision. With this method, the skin cancer is removed with a thin rim of normal appearing tissue. While the patient relaxes in the office, this specimen is sent to the pathologist who evaluates the surgical margins for signs of remaining tumor. This excision and evaluation process is continued until the tumor has been completely removed. This spares the removal of the most normal tissue making the closure of resulting defect cosmetically more acceptable. Dr. Doppelt, depending on the stage and location of the cancer will determine the best treatment plan.

Melanoma (back to top)
Melanoma is a severe form of skin cancer that if not detected early can spread to other organs of the body and be fatal. However, if detected early enough melanoma is curable with surgical excision of the cancerous tumor as soon as possible. If it has spread to other locations additional treatments including chemotherapy, radiation or immunotherapy are widely used. Melanoma is derived from the pigment producing cells in the skin called melanocytes. Melanoma is most commonly found on areas that have been overexposed to the sun. However, melanoma can occur anywhere on the body. Some melanomas evolve from abnormal moles while others seem to arise without warning. The ABCDE’s are used to help remember the warning signs of melanoma. “A” is for Asymmetry; where 1 half of the lesion does not mirror the other half. “B” is for Border irregularity; where the lesion has “fuzzy” borders or the pigment seems to be spilling beyond the border. “C” is for Color; where the lesion is very dark in color or has many different colors. “D” is for diameter; where the diameter of the lesion is larger then the size of a pencil eraser. “E” is for Elevation or Enlarging; where a flat lesion suddenly becomes elevated or enlarged. Dr. Doppelt emphasizes that these are warning signs and do not necessarily mean that a lesion is a melanoma. However, he encourages everyone with lesions that exhibit one or more of these signs to have them evaluated.

Eczema (back to top)
There are a variety of types of eczema as well as causes. Eczema is associated with very dry, itchy skin. It can become red and bleed, particularly if the area becomes broken from scratching. Eczema is not contagious and can be treated. Mild cases can usually be treated with topical remedies and a mild skin care routine. More advanced cases may require oral medications. Dr. Doppelt will determine the appropriate treatment plan for you.

Psoriasis (back to top)
Psoriasis is a skin condition characterized by inflammation, pain, and itching that can bleed when the skin is broken. There are multiple types of psoriasis but are commonly distinguished by elevated, red plaques of skin that are covered with white to silver scale. Psoriasis is frequently associated with pain, discomfort, and social embarrassment. It is usually a lifelong problem. There is no cure for psoriasis, but recent therapeutic advances have given new hope to patients who suffer from this disease. Consult with Dr. Doppelt regarding the best treatment plan for you.