Conveniently located to serve Fort Myers, Naples, Bonita Springs, and Estero
Medical dermatology is a specialized branch of dermatology that focuses on diagnosing and treating skin conditions and diseases.
We are committed to providing expert medical dermatology services at Houck Dermatology in Bonita Springs. Our dedicated team of professionals is equipped to handle various skin problems, from common ailments to complex conditions, ensuring that our patients receive the highest quality care tailored to their needs.
Common Skin Conditions Treated
The more common skin conditions we diagnose (but not limited to) are:
- Skin Cancer Surgery – This procedure includes removing the skin cancer and checking if it has been completely removed using the Mohs frozen section technique.
- Actinic Keratosis (Pre-cancers) – This skin problem is marked by red bumps with scale-like textures.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma – This condition is signified by bleeding and non-healing lesions and is diagnosed with a biopsy.
- Dysplastic Moles (Nevi) – These moles can be identified by their color variation, irregular borders, and asymmetrical shapes.
- Eczema – Eczema shows up as patches of red skin and can be relieved by avoiding allergic triggers and applying topical anti-inflammatory creams.
- Seborrheic Keratosis (Barnacles) – This skin condition is marked by warty, brown growths. While they do not always require treatment, irritated lesions can be easily treated.
- Acne – Acne is caused by bacteria growth in a clogged pore, leading to an infection, resulting in redness, swelling, and pus buildup.
- Alopecia (Hair loss) – This autoimmune disorder can be treated using various options, such as corticosteroid injections and medications like Minoxidil and Anthralin.
- Bullous Pemphigoid (Blistering condition) – Available treatment options for this problem include corticosteroid ointments and creams to heal the skin, reduce itchiness, and treat blisters.
- Cherry Angiomas (Blood spots) – If you are unhappy with their appearance or frequent bleeding, cherry angiomas can be removed by freezing or burning.
- Cysts – These bumps can be treated by draining, conducting a minor removal surgery, or using a laser.
- Fungal infections (“Tinea” of the nails, feet, body, etc.) – These are treated based on their type. The most common options are antifungal creams and medications.
- Mole removal – Mole removal may be performed for cosmetic or health reasons. Standard removal techniques include shave excision and surgical excision.
- Molluscum contagiosum – You might need to address this skin issue if the lesions appear on your neck and face. The condition can be treated using laser therapy, topical treatment, and cryotherapy.
- Psoriasis – This skin condition can be treated using steroid ointments or creams to reduce inflammation, moisturizers, or medications to reduce skin-cell production.
- Rosacea – This skin problem is marked by red or flushed skin and small bumps with pus inside. Typical treatments range from medications to dermabrasion to laser therapy.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis (Dandruff) – People seek treatment to reduce symptoms such as redness, itching, and visible white flakes. Treatment usually involves over-the-counter and prescription medications such as corticosteroids and topical antifungals.
- Skin Infections – Ranging from viral to bacterial to fungal to parasitic. Treatments depend on the cause of the infection, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections and antifungal creams for fungal infections.
- Skin Tags (Acrochordons) – Skin tags may be removed using over-the-counter products or techniques such as cryosurgery, cauterization, ligation, electrocautery, and surgical removal.
- Tinea versicolor (yeast) – This fungal infection is signified by white, red, or brown spots that are dry and scaly. It can be treated using over-the-counter and prescription antifungal medications.
- Warts (Verruca vulgaris) – We can remove these growths by freezing them or using salicylic acid.
Treatment Options in Medical Dermatology
At Houck Dermatology, we employ a variety of treatment modalities to address skin conditions effectively. Dermatological treatments include:
- Topical Medications: These are creams, gels, or ointments applied directly to the skin to treat several conditions.
- Oral Medications: Pills or capsules that can treat skin conditions systemically.
- Phototherapy: A treatment involving exposure to specific wavelengths of light, used primarily for conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
- Injectable Therapies: These include biologics and other injectables for conditions such as severe psoriasis and chronic hives.
- Surgical Procedures: For skin cancers and other conditions requiring excision or more invasive treatments.
Our comprehensive approach ensures that each treatment plan is personalized, combining different therapies to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.
FAQ About Medical Dermatology
What is Medical Dermatology?
Medical dermatology treats conditions and diseases affecting skin, hair, and nails. Some of the most common issues treated are acne, skin cancer, fungal infections, and eczema.
Do I Need Professional Acne Care?
Many people struggle with preventing and managing acne breakouts on their own. Professional acne care is a good option for people with mild to moderate acne who want to improve the health & appearance of their skin and for those with severe acne who need help preventing damage to their skin.
What is Mohs Surgery?
Mosh surgery is a skin cancer removal procedure that is both safe and incredibly effective. At Houck Dermatology, we use the Mohs frozen section technique which has a high cure rate.
Should I Have My Moles Removed?
In some cases, mole removal procedures are performed for cosmetic purposes. However, there are many cases where mole removal is performed for medical purposes as the mole may be cancerous. It is recommended that you evaluate any new moles and note any changes to existing moles.
What Are the Costs of Medical Dermatology?
The cost of your care at Houck Dermatology in Estero, FL will vary depending on the type of treatment and the extent of the care required to treat the issue properly. Our team will go over cost and payment options during your appointment.
Importance of Choosing a Qualified Medical Dermatologist
A qualified medical dermatologist is crucial for effective treatment and optimal skin health. At Houck Dermatology, our dermatologists are board-certified and have specialized training and expertise in medical dermatology. This expertise is pivotal in accurately diagnosing skin conditions and crafting effective treatment plans.
Our team’s commitment to patient safety and satisfaction means that we are dedicated to ongoing education and adherence to the highest standards of care. By choosing Houck Dermatology, patients can trust that they receive the best care from experienced professionals.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
Find out more about the medical dermatology services we offer patients in Bonita Springs, Estero, Fort Myers, and Naples—contact Houck Dermatology today or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment. We will be available to answer any questions and provide you with the personalized care you need.