Holly Morris, MSHS, PA-C, Joins Optima Dermatology & Medical Aesthetics in Scarborough, ME

September 2022

Optima Dermatology is excited to welcome board-certified physician assistant Holly Morris, MSHS, PA-C, to our practice in Scarborough, ME. Holly brings 12 years of experience in dermatology and medical aesthetics to our practice and is committed to delivering an exceptional patient experience for the residents of the Greater Portland Maine area.

Holly earned her Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant studies at Cornell University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, during which time she had hands-on training at teaching facilities including New York Presbyterian Hospital, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Columbia University. Holly also served as a Research Assistant at Johns Hopkins University.

Prior to joining Optima Dermatology, Holly provided dermatological care to patients of all ages in New York, treating a range of conditions both medical and cosmetic.

Dedicated to Excellent Patient Care

Holly’s approach to patient care reflects Optima Dermatology’s commitment to treating every patient the way we would want our friends and family to be treated. Holly is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and personalized experience for each patient.

Drawing on her years of research and training, and a passion for continued education into the latest aesthetic procedures and technology, Holly brings a wealth of knowledge to each patient. Holly regularly participates in trainings with industry leaders and has advanced training and experience performing a variety of medical aesthetic treatments; including BOTOX®, Dysport®, dermal fillers like Restylane®, microneedling, and more.

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Holly, her approach, and the path that led her to pursue dermatology care as a physician assistant.

How/when did you know you wanted to be a Physician Assistant? Were you always interested in dermatology and aesthetics, and what was your path to get here?

At the start of my career in medicine, I was initially interested in research. I served as a Research Assistant at Johns Hopkins University. During my time in research, I quickly learned that my favorite days were clinic days. This is when I realized that I wanted to be patient-facing and interact with patients rather than research. I became interested specifically in dermatology when completing my rotation with dermatologists in New York City. I had the opportunity to participate in medical dermatology, surgical dermatology, and cosmetic dermatology. I loved being able to address an array of issues across each of these service lines. The skin is our largest organ, it is what the world sees. I am driven to help patients address their skin concerns, feel healthy in their skin, and be confident in putting their best face forward.

What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin?

Without hesitation, sunscreen! Practicing sun protection throughout the entire year, no matter the season, is my number one skin care tip.

What do you enjoy most about treating your aesthetic patients and what is unique about your approach?

I love that one day is never the same. Each patient has their own aesthetic goals or skincare concerns, and I enjoy having the opportunity to positively impact how my patients feel about themselves. My approach to treatment is to collaborate and work closely with my patients and develop custom treatment plans to meet their goals.

Where are some unexpected areas you treat with filler that produce great results?

My personal favorite area to treat with dermal filler, is the mid-face. Patients do not always come in asking for this area specifically because they do not realize that correcting this area can help to improve other areas lower down in the face. The mid-face acts as the framework of the whole face. Addressing this area with dermal filler often helps indirectly improve other areas that may be of concern for patients. It really is the building block of addressing volume loss in the face.

For which patients would you recommend a microneedling treatment, and what should patients expect?

Microneedling is great for all patients, it rejuvenates the skin, can improve overall skin tone and texture, and address fine lines and wrinkles. INTRAcel RF Microneedling is specifically great for patients who experience acne scarring. It helps stimulate collagen to repair scarring on the skin, addressing scarring in a way that other treatments cannot. Patients can expect a quick and noninvasive treatment with minimal downtime!

What do you like to do when you are not treating patients?

After years in New York, I am happy to be back on the coast of Maine where I grew up! Outside of treating patients, I love to spend time with my family. You can find us outdoors and on the water with any free time that we have.

What to Expect From Dermatology Care From Holly and Her Team

If you’re seeking medical dermatological care, Holly and her team at Optima Dermatology & Medical Aesthetics offer a wide range of services and have advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care.

View a complete list of our dermatology services, and come in for a free consultation to learn more about our approach to patient care. Holly is accepting new patients at our Scarborough, ME location. Give us a call at 855-277-9689 to schedule your consultation today!