Board-Certified Dermatologist Joan Sisto, MD, FAAD Joins Optima Dermatology’s Seacoast & Southern Maine Practices
October 2024
Dr. Sisto Specializes in Medical, Surgical, and Cosmetic Dermatology Services
Dr. Joan Sisto, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist, is providing services at Optima Dermatology’s Stratham, NH and York, ME practices, and will be joining our newest practice in Portsmouth, NH in January. Having served patients in the Seacoast region since 1999, Dr. Sisto brings years of expertise and a passion for skin care and treatment.
Dr. Sisto provides medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology treatments for patients of all ages.
She earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Utah and attended a postgraduate premedical program at Columbia University in New York City. She later earned her Doctor of Medicine from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine (AECOM), a premier academic medical center and university hospital recognized for clinical excellence, where she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society.
Dr. Sisto completed her dermatology residency at Montefiore Hospital of AECOM and was named Chief Resident during her final year.
Currently, she is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), and a member of the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery.
Having served as a board-certified dermatologist in the Seacoast region for more than two decades, Dr. Sisto is passionate about serving the community and has participated in numerous free skin cancer screening events. She also frequently volunteers her time at a local soup kitchen, and has completed multiple medical missions in Honduras.
When she is not treating patients, she enjoys skiing, cycling, hiking in the White Mountains, and enjoying exceptional Italian cooking by her husband Dan.
Committed to Skin Care and Patient Care
Dr. Sisto is committed to delivering the highest quality of care to her patients, and pays special attention to underlying causes of skin conditions, as well as specific details about an individual’s life and routine that can contribute to skin issues.
Her approach to patient care mirrors Optima’s mission to treat everyone like we would our friends and family, and she is looking forward to continuing her work in the Seacoast of New Hampshire and Southern Maine.
We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Dr. Sisto, her approach, and the path that led her to become a board-certified dermatologist.
What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology? What did the path to get there look like for you?
I was a Critical Care Nurse in Salt Lake City, Utah in my early twenties. Interest in travel provided an opportunity to work in a Cardiac Catheterization Lab in Milan, Italy for two years. This experience led to medical school in New York City. I originally was interested in emergency medicine but during my fourth year rotation in dermatology, I realized I would prefer creating more rewarding, longer-term patient relationships.
What is your favorite aspect of being a dermatologist?
I enjoy dermatology because I see such a wide age range, including pediatrics, teenagers, young adults and the elderly. I practice general medical dermatology but surgical procedures and cosmetics are also very fulfilling.
What is your approach to treating your patients?
I look at my patients as a whole person, not just their exterior. Dermatologic manifestations of internal conditions can be subtle. It is important to know my patient’s health history to better manage their treatment.
What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin?
Sun protection starts at an early age; not just sunscreen but SPF clothing, hats, and sun avoidance.
What is one thing you want your patients to know about you?
I love my job. I treat my patients as I would treat my family members. I want to know all about you and how I can help you to keep your skin and your body healthy
What do you like to do when you are not in the office treating patients?
My husband, Dan, and I love to ski, boat, bike, and eat Italian food.
Dr. Sisto and her team at Optima Dermatology offer exceptional services and have the advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care.
She is currently accepting new patients at our Stratham, NH and York, ME locations. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 855-277-9689.