May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to discuss skin cancer prevention and early detection. Sun damage, as we know, is dangerous for our skin as it can lead to the development of skin cancer. When you protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, you reduce your risk of developing skin cancer and premature skin aging.  Dr. Gregory Delost of our Mentor, OH practice recently joined Nicole Marcellino of New Day Cleveland to talk about the common types of skin cancer, the importance of annual skin checks, and tips for choosing and applying sunscreen!

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to educate about skin cancer prevention and early detection. Our skin is our largest organ, which makes it more susceptible to damage. Sun damage, as we know, is dangerous for our skin as it can lead to the development of skin cancer.

Compounding the risk is the reality that individuals often don’t get their skin checked by a dermatologist or conduct regular self-exams at home. Both are important ways to identify any abnormalities on the skin that should be tested or treated to rule out skin cancer. 

Early detection of skin cancer is key to making treatment more effective, and although skin cancer is usually visible, it often goes undetected without a professional dermatologist conducting a thorough skin check.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S., with nearly 10,000 people diagnosed every day. These rates are only increasing – especially among women and those under the age of 40 – making spreading awareness a critically important mission.

In this post, we collaborated with a board-certified dermatologist of our Scarborough, ME, location, Dr. Daniel Cuozzo, to discuss how to check for skin cancer and identify abnormalities. We’re also going to walk you through something called the ABCDEs of Melanoma, which provides a guide to follow in what to look for to identify Melanoma skin cancer.

How to Perform a Self-Exam for Skin Cancer

The more regularly you conduct a self-exam, the more likely it is that you will notice any new or different spots on your skin and be able to intervene early. There are elements of our skin that naturally change over time, but you should always err on the side of caution and see a board-certified dermatologist with any concerns.

Here are the American Academy of Dermatology Association’s recommendations for how to perform a self-exam for skin cancer:

1. Use a full-length mirror in a brightly lit space to examine the front, back, right, and left sides of your body. Raise your arms to view hard-to-see places.
2. Examine your underarms, forearms, the palms of your hands, and your fingernails.
3. Look at the soles of your feet, your toenails, the spaces between your toes, and the backs of your feet and legs.
4. Examine your neck and scalp using a small hand mirror, being sure to part your hair for a better look at different areas of your scalp.
5. Check your back and buttocks, also using a hand mirror.

The ABCDEs of Melanoma

Melanoma is a serious skin cancer because it can spread from the skin to other parts of the body. Once it has spread deeper into the skin or other parts of the body, it becomes more difficult to treat. However, when detected and treated early melanoma is usually curable, making a compelling argument for self-exams and annual skin checks with your dermatologist.

When conducting a self-exam, here is the ABCDE rule for identifying the warning signs of Melanoma.

A – Asymmetry: One side of the mole is not like the other.

B – Border: There is an irregular or poorly defined border around the mole.

C – Color: The mole is multiple shades of color (usually brown), but can also be pinkish or even black.

D – Diameter: A mole diagnosed with Melanoma is typically the size of an eraser head or larger, but it can be smaller.

E – Evolving: Your mole either looks very different from other moles on your body or has changed in appearance from when you first noticed it. These evolutions can include color, size, or shape.

Beyond these points, any skin abnormality, especially one that does not heal, is bleeding, itching, flaking, or changing in shape, color, or size, should be looked at by a board-certified dermatologist to rule out skin cancer and treat any other skin issue you may be suffering from.

Check at Home – and With Your Dermatologist

We’ve talked a lot about the importance of skin checks at home and at least once each year with your board-certified dermatologist. Seeing a dermatologist annually is a perfect complement to self-exams, not only for skin cancer prevention but to manage any other skin issues.

Here is what you can expect from a full body skin check visit:

• A skin check appointment is typically about 10 to 20 minutes long and begins with a conversation about your specific concerns, medical and family history, and any questions you may have.
• Depending on your medical or family history, you may be considered a higher-risk patient, in which case we pay close attention to specific areas of the body that are more susceptible to skin cancer. This information also helps us know what to monitor over time.
• We conduct a full head-to-toe exam, making note of any areas of the skin that we should monitor or test.

Keep Your Skin Cancer Awareness & Prevention Going All Year Long

We can’t stress enough that skin cancer awareness is important all year round.

Prevention goes beyond skin checks – daily sun protection is critical and includes wearing sunscreen daily with an SPF of 30 or more, especially on areas that are regularly exposed like your face, neck, chest, and hands. You should also wear sun protective clothing and seek shade when the sun’s rays are the strongest, between 10am and 2pm.

Skin cancer awareness leads to prevention, detection, and greater success rates for treatment.

If you’d like to schedule a skin check to discuss your concerns and questions about your skin health, contact us today to set up an appointment with a provider in your area.

Winholt and Her Team Provide Expert Medical Aesthetic and Cosmetic Dermatology Treatments

The newest addition to Optima Dermatology’s Milford, OH practice is board-certified Nurse Practitioner Sarah Winholt, FNP-C, who brings several years of expertise servicing patients in the Cincinnati and Columbus regions. 

Sarah has advanced training and extensive experience performing a range of cosmetic treatments, including neurotoxin injections – such as BOTOX® and Dysport® – dermal filler, laser treatments, microneedling, and more. 

Sarah, who is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, earned her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in nursing from the University of Cincinnati, and she also holds a Bachelor of Science in Health and Rehabilitative Sciences from Ohio State University. 

Before focusing her career on medical aesthetics, Sarah worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner in an urgent care clinic, where she diagnosed and treated common dermatologic conditions. She also spent several years working as a critical care Registered Nurse (RN) in a hospital. 

A Patient-Centered and Care-Focused Approach

Having always been passionate about skin care, Sarah puts every patient at the center of her care, offering a personalized and thoughtful treatment experience. 

Sarah’s approach to care reflects Optima’s mission to treat all patients the way we would want our family and friends to be treated. Sarah makes it a point to ensure her patients understand every aspect of their diagnosis and treatment and enjoys collaborating with her patients to develop a customized treatment plan. 

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Sarah, her approach, and the path that led her to become a board-certified nurse practitioner.

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

I always thought that I wanted to be a physical therapist. I played competitive soccer when I was younger, and I was always in and out of PT for different injuries. This gave me a lot of insight into that career. In undergrad, I started meeting nursing students and they were always so passionate about their career that it was very intriguing to me. I took a course to receive a nursing aide certification and I absolutely loved it. This is when I decided to make a career change.

I have always been passionate about skincare from a young age, so I knew that specializing in dermatology was my goal. I worked bedside as a critical care RN before graduating with my FNP. I wanted to be very experienced before I started working as a Nurse Practitioner. I have been a Nurse Practitioner for the past 5 years and I have specialized in cosmetic dermatology for the last 3 years.

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

Always protect your skin and apply SPF every day. The trick is to find a SPF that you love so you don’t mind putting it on every morning. There are so many great medical-grade SPF products out there right now. I can help you find your perfect match! 

What is your favorite aspect of being in dermatology? 

I enjoy creating customized treatment plans for my patients. It is rewarding to see the improvement of my patient’s skin and the confidence that it gives them. Additionally, I like that we are always advancing and growing as dermatology providers. The cosmetic and medical dermatology fields are rapidly changing with new technology and advancements, which makes it exciting to be continually learning the latest dermatological procedures.  

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

I enjoy helping each patient reach their aesthetic goal. There is no better feeling than giving my patients the mirror at the end of their cosmetic procedure and seeing their faces light up when they see their results.

I believe in taking a comprehensive and personalized approach to aesthetic treatments. I take the time to understand each patient’s concerns and goals, which allows me to customize the treatment plan. I take a very natural approach to reach the best possible outcomes.

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

An unexpected area to treat with dermal filler is in the hands. Our hands are often the first sign of our age. We can replace the lost volume in our hands with several syringes of dermal filler and it gives a very beautiful and youthful result.

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

I enjoy taking Pilates classes, walking on the bike trail with my dog, and traveling on the weekends. Now that spring and summer are approaching, I spend most of my free time at the lake with family and friends. I enjoy paddle boarding and boating – but really anything on the water!

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What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Sarah and Her Team

Sarah and her team at Optima Dermatology & Medical Aesthetics 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 Milford, OH location. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 513-327-9244.

Rosacea Awareness Month: 4 Steps to Manage Rosacea

We’re back with another Derm Deep Dive, a series where we provide expert advice from our team of board-certified dermatologists about common skin conditions and treatment options. For Rosacea Awareness Month, we’re collaborating with Dr. Amy Polster and Dr. Meredith Reimer on how to manage this skin condition.

If You Have Rosacea, Here’s What You Should Know

Rosacea has a reputation as simply being facial redness, but it is more complicated than that. Importantly, rosacea is a chronic condition that can cause noticeable inflammation on the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead, or eyelids, which can then lead to redness, broken blood vessels, swelling, pimples, or pustules.

The National Rosacea Society reports that rosacea affects about 16 million Americans. While there is no known cause or cure for this chronic condition, it can be successfully managed and controlled with the right treatment plan.

Rosacea Awareness Month is an important time for us to remind everyone suffering from this common skin condition that you aren’t alone and there is help out there! Here are 4 simple steps to help manage your rosacea.

STEP 1: Identify Potential Triggers

The first step is to work with your dermatologist to identify what might be triggering your rosacea. Triggers can include any of the following:

• Sun exposure
• Hot or cold weather conditions, including humidity or indoor heat
• Hot baths, showers, hot tubs, or saunas
• Heavy exercise
• Alcohol consumption, especially red wine
• Harsh winds
• Emotional stressors, such as anger, anxiety, embarrassment, or general stress
• Certain foods, including spicy foods, aged cheeses, dairy products, and some chocolates
• Hot drinks, including coffee and tea

STEP 2: Create a Management Plan with Your Dermatologist

Second, your dermatologist will provide guidelines to help determine the best ways to manage your specific triggers. When it comes to triggers that exist in your everyday life, there are some best practice lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms:

• On hot, sunny days, seek out shade, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
• Protect your face and neck from cold weather, especially harsh winds
• Try to manage emotional stress through deep breathing exercises, meditation, or calming, relaxing activities like yoga or simply reading a book.
• Keep showers short to avoid overheating. If exercising, recognize when it’s time to take a break and drink water, and keep cold water on hand.
• Choose white wine instead of red if alcohol is a trigger, or try to avoid alcohol and opt for a mocktail or water.

Rosacea may be caused by triggers that are harder to pinpoint, or it may not be responsive to lifestyle changes. In addition to lifestyle changes, there are other treatment options your dermatologist may consider, including:

• Topical medications
• Oral antibiotics
• Laser treatments to treat broken blood vessels on the face, such as VBeam®

STEP 3: Give it Time

It’s important to remember that because rosacea is a chronic condition, symptoms won’t alleviate right away. Additionally, every patient is different, and the dermatologists at Optima Dermatology recognize that what works for one of our patients may not work for another.

The right treatment plan could take time to identify. We may have to try a few different therapies before we find one that works for your specific form of rosacea. Patients should allow up to 12 weeks for a treatment plan to do its job. Time to remission may vary – and therefore, patience is key.  

STEP 4: Stay Consistent

If you’re trying to eat healthier, having a vegetable with dinner one time won’t do much for your overall health. Making any kind of lasting impact requires consistency and a dedicated effort. To truly prevent flare ups – or at least minimize their frequency and severity – you need to be consistent with your treatment and not just treat your rosacea during flare ups.

It can be frustrating to have to wait for results, especially when dealing with an issue that impacts your appearance. However, rosacea treatment takes time and commitment. Improving a skin condition is part of our overall health and wellness, just like eating more vegetables. Consistency and patience will generate better results.

Are you located in the Cleveland area and experiencing signs and symptoms of rosacea? Do you need help identifying triggers and creating a treatment plan? Request an appointment today!

Siobhan Arey, PA-C, Joins Optima Dermatology in Scarborough, ME

Optima Dermatology is excited to introduce Siobhan Arey, PA-C, a board-certified physician assistant who provides dermatology services in our Scarborough, ME practice. Siobhan has been caring for patients since 2017, and treats a wide range of skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Siobhan also provides screenings and treatments for skin cancer. Siobhan earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Le Moyne College. She earned her Master of Public Health from Syracuse University, and received her Bachelor’s degree in psychology and neuroscience from the University of Maine. Following her undergraduate work, Siobhan spent two years contributing full-time service to the AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA), an anti-poverty program. Siobhan is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Maine Association of Physician Assistants, and the Pi Alpha National Physician Assistant Honor Society. She also co-authored survey research regarding telemedicine in dermatology practice during the pandemic, which was published in JAAD and Cutis.

Putting Patients at the Center of Care

Originally from Gorham, ME, Siobhan has been treating patients in the state since 2021. Her approach to dermatology services is thoughtful and caring, and Siobhan embodies Optima’s stated commitment to treating all patients the way we would want our family and friends to be treated.  Siobhan involves her patients in their skin care, ensuring you understand and are part of decisions around diagnosis and treatment. Education and trust are core to her approach to patient care. We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Siobhan, her approach, and the path that led her to become a board-certified nurse practitioner.

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Where did you go to college?

I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Maine. I then attended Syracuse University and Upstate Medical University’s joint program for my masters in public health. I completed my physician assistant training at LeMoyne College. What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology? What did the path to get there look like? Dermatology wasn’t on my radar, but it was my first unit in PA school and after that I was hooked. I was very fortunate that my professor from that unit acted as a mentor. I did my electives in dermatology during school and received an offer for a dermatology position immediately after graduating. I worked at Upstate Medical University until I moved back to Maine. I have had excellent physician and PA mentors for whom I am very grateful, and I continue to keep in touch with them. The dermatology community is an amazing collaborative group.

What are your favorite aspects of dermatology?

I love the hands-on nature of dermatology, as well as the concentration and attention to detail needed to be an excellent dermatology provider.

On your journey to becoming a board-certified physician assistant, what was the best advice you were given?

The thing that unites us is that we will all be patients one day, so treat every patient the way you would want to be treated if you or your family members were seeking care.

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

Sunscreen always! And take inventory every month for new or changing spots. Reach out to a dermatology clinic for skin cancer screening appointments yearly or as recommended by your provider.

How would you describe your approach to treating patients?

I like my patients to actively participate in their care. I do my best to explain everything and offer education and encourage self awareness to prevent skin cancers and treat skin conditions.

What do you like to do when you are not in the office?

Being on the water at the lake or at the beach and hiking! Maine is such a beautiful place and I love enjoying the outdoors with my family.

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What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Siobhan and Her Team

Siobhan 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 Scarborough, ME location. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 207-770-5621.

Cosmetic treatments are for everyone! Aesthetic services have continued to gain popularity amongst men in recent years, particularly procedures that address the top three areas men are most concerned about – the hairline, jawline, and eyes. There are a range of non-surgical treatment options to help provide a refreshed, rejuvenated, and natural look. Dr. Gregory Delost of our Mentor, OH practice recently joined Nicole Marcellino of New Day Cleveland to talk about treatment options for these top concerns. Check out the full interview to learn more!

Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Stead Shares the Best Products

We’re back with another Derm Deep Dive, a series where we provide expert advice from one of our board-certified dermatologists about a specific topic in skin care. For this edition, we’re speaking with Dr. Jennifer Stead, DO, FAAD, from our Bedford, NH practice, about the best products to combat dry skin and help you maintain a healthy and effective skincare routine.

It’s important to take care of your skin in the morning and again at night before you go to bed. Dr. Stead recommends the following morning and nighttime products.

Morning Skin Care

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Set your skin up for success every day. A good morning skincare routine helps protect your skin from exposure to UV rays, dirt, bacteria, sweat, and other damaging factors.

Try these products to give your skin a barrier against anything your day throws your way.

Revision Gentle Foaming Cleanser

This soothing, soap-free foam cleanser gently and effectively cleanses skin with a rich, velvety foam. The combination of chamomile, aloe vera, and allantoin helps calm and moisturize skin, leaving it feeling smooth and soft.

Revision Soothing Facial Rinse

This calming, alcohol-free formula gently hydrates and refreshes skin with each cleanse. A unique blend of plant and algae extracts leaves skin feeling soft and smooth and helps keep skin at its optimum pH level.

Alastin HA

Instantly boost skin hydration with this hyaluronic acid serum that promotes long-term skin plumping, anti-aging, and hydration, while also minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Nighttime Skin Care

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A nighttime skincare routine is the perfect way to wind down, and it doesn’t have to be complicated! First, wash away dirt and impurities with the Revision Gentle Foaming Cleanser used in your morning routine. Your skin revitalizes itself during the night, so why not give it some help with skin care products that repair and rejuvenate the skin while you sleep?

EltaMD Skin Recovery Night Mask

This nighttime mask repairs and regenerates skin three times faster at night than during the day, making it a staple of your nighttime skin care routine. It helps strengthen the skin barrier, visibly reduces redness, improves hydration, and gives your skin a well-rested, radiant glow. Plus, it is free of dyes, fragrances, and parabens, is non-comedogenic, and is suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.

Isdin Melatonik

Try this restorative nighttime serum-in-oil, which works while you sleep to help your skin recover from daily stresses. Its 3-in-1 formula contains melatonin, bakuchiol, and vitamin C, which together stimulate your skin’s natural antioxidant defenses and help restore vitality and elasticity for healthy, more radiant skin.

Sticking to a Healthy Routine

Remember that consistency is key. Try to maintain a regimen for three months for proper evaluation, and don’t give up too quickly. If you are testing too many products at once or moving on after a couple of weeks, it’s hard to know what’s working!

Are you in the Manchester area, or are you in a different state and have concerns about your skin? Do you want to discuss the best approach to your skincare? Schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists or providers for an initial consultation and to get started on a path to healthier, happier skin.

Please note that the available skin care products vary by location.

Meet Board-Certified Physician Assistant Ally Schmerge

Optima Dermatology is excited to introduce Ally Schmerge, PA-C, who provides medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services for patients in Bloomington, IN. Ally offers treatments to patients of all ages for a wide range of skin conditions.

Ally has been serving patients since 2021 and has had many years of education and training in the dermatology field.

Ally earned her Doctor of Medical Science and Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Butler University, where she was a member of the Order of Omega Honor Society and an ambassador of the Physician Assistant Student Ambassadors program. She also co-authored numerous publications.

Throughout her education and training, Ally completed multiple clinical rotations, including dermatology, women’s health, family medicine, emergency medicine, and more.

Before completing her DMS and Masters, Ally graduated Cum Laude from DePauw University with a bachelor’s degree in Cellular & Molecular Biology and a minor in Chemistry.

Ally is a certified NCCPA Physician Assistant and is a member of the Indiana Academy of Physician Assistants, and the American Academy of Physician Assistants.

Ally is committed to helping patients learn about and practice skin cancer prevention, and in her Doctor of Medical Science program, she constructed a research proposal focused on the early detection of malignant melanoma in rural U.S. counties.

A Passionate, Patient-Centered Approach

With a passion for all things skin care, Ally’s approach to her patients mirrors Optima Dermatology’s overall mission: to treat every patient like they are our family. She takes the time to listen to each patient and will develop a personalized skin care plan to treat your unique needs.

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Ally, her approach, and the path that led her to become a board-certified physician assistant.

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Where did you go to college?

I completed my undergraduate degree in Cellular & Molecular Biology, with a minor in Chemistry, at DePauw University. I then attended Butler University for my Master of Physician Assistant Studies and Doctor of Medical Science.

What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology? What did the path to get there look like?

I have been passionate about dermatology from a young age. My own acne journey allowed me to understand how much skin health can affect confidence. I kept an open mind in PA school as I completed rotations in various specialties, but my elective rotation in dermatology reinforced my enthusiasm for helping patients take care of their largest organ, the skin!

What is your favorite aspect of dermatology?

My favorite aspect of dermatology is the ability to have continuity of care and develop relationships with my patients. The years of studying are so worth it when I can contribute to my patients attaining healthier skin, boosting not only their physical well-being but also enhancing their self-confidence.

On your journey to becoming a board-certified physician assistant, what was the best advice you were given?

Even before starting PA school, I recognized that healthcare is a multidisciplinary field. During my rotations, however, the teams I worked with allowed me to develop an even deeper understanding of how this impacts patient care. Each member of the team brings unique expertise and skills to the table. I witnessed that leveraging this collective knowledge can accomplish greater outcomes for our patients than what any single individual can achieve alone. Implementing this practice ensures a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to healthcare, addressing the diverse needs of my patients.

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

Skin care isn’t a “one size fits all” thing! Take the time to learn about your skin type — normal, oily, combination, dry, or sensitive — and what kinds of products are best suited for your skin type.

How would you describe your approach to treating patients?

I am an active listener. As providers, it can be tempting on busy clinic days to go into the patient room with a predetermined treatment plan. When I walk into the room, I want to hear about what has or hasn’t worked, and what my patient is willing or not willing to try. Then, together, we create a personalized treatment plan.

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

When I am not in the office, I love to spend quality time with my family and friends. I also enjoy being outside, especially taking walks or hiking, traveling to new places, and reading a good book. My husband, Taylor, and I recently moved to Bloomington, so we are looking forward to exploring our new city and trying new restaurants.

What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Ally and Her Team

If you’re seeking dermatological care, no matter how routine or complex, Ally and her team at Optima Dermatology offer exceptional services and have the advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care.

Ally is currently accepting new patients at our Bloomington, IN. location. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 812-200-2458.

White Delivers Expert Medical Dermatology Treatments to Patients

Optima Dermatology is excited to introduce Michelle White, NP-C, who provides medical dermatology services for patients in Bedford, NH. Michelle has been serving patients in New England since 2009 and treats a wide range of skin conditions for patients of all ages.

Michelle earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University and continued at MCPHS University to earn her Master of Science in Nursing degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Throughout her education, Michelle was a member of Sigma Theta Tau International, a National Nursing Honor Society. She is also a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the Massachusetts Coalition of Nurse Practitioners, and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

A Passionate, Patient-Centered Approach

Michelle brings a passion and commitment to skin care and her patients’ skin health that aligns with Optima Dermatology’s overall mission: to treat every patient like they are our family. She understands it can be intimidating and difficult to seek help with skin issues and takes the time to listen to and understand her patients’ concerns while providing an inviting, relaxing atmosphere.

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Michelle, her approach, and the path that led her to become a board-certified nurse practitioner.

Where did you go to college?

I originally wanted to be a veterinarian as a childhood dream. As such I first went to the University of New Hampshire and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science: Pre-Veterinary Medicine. I later realized my love for nursing and dermatology. I went back to school after 10 years for nursing and shortly thereafter for my master’s in nursing as a nurse practitioner from MCPHS University in Manchester, NH.

What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology?

While I was working in the veterinary field, I was placed in the dermatology department. A veterinarian made a comment that she saw me as a “nurse practitioner” of the veterinary world.  Since this position didn’t exist, I started thinking seriously about becoming a nurse practitioner in the specialty I was familiar with. It was obvious during my clinical rotations that dermatology was where my heart directed me. All the while, I had been working at a dermatology practice since 2007 and throughout my education, which heightened my drive for this specialty. Having a mother who is a retired registered nurse for a dermatology practice also gives me the feeling it’s genetic.

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

Sun protection. Having a fulfilling life is important and to be completely fulfilled, we need to do what is necessary to preserve the health of our skin. As skin cancer is the most commonly occurring type of cancer, protection from UV exposure is important. And sunscreen is only one type of protection. There are numerous options to protect our skin, including UPF clothing, sunglasses, umbrellas, wide-brim hats, avoiding high UV peaks – and more. Having options for how we can protect our skin gives us the ability to live life to the fullest along with ensuring a healthy glow.

If there is one thing you want your patients to know about you, what would it be?

My family is my life. Providing the best care to my patients is like welcoming them to the family.  My patients are excited when their skin conditions resolve, as am I. They are also disappointed and frustrated when their skin conditions do not improve as quickly as expected. I feel that frustration too. For these reasons, I’m committed to working together as a team with each patient to create a plan that will work best for them and that will deliver the best possible outcome. I care for them both during our time together and in the long run.

On your journey to becoming a board-certified nurse practitioner, what was the best advice you were given?

Never be afraid to lean on your colleagues and to think outside of the box. The best care comes in the form of the team approach. My goal for my patients is to provide the best care I can give as if they were family, and to do so often means leveraging other medical providers who can help find the answers to a patient’s health condition. I don’t claim to “know it all” and rely heavily on evidence-based practices from research and colleagues who may have additional experiences that have worked well for their patients. On occasion, some patients may even be referred for second opinions because, at the end of the day, it’s not always a straight line to a resolution. Getting the care my patients need is of utmost priority and is done with the patient’s best interests at heart.

What is your approach to treating your patients?

Coming to see a provider for the first time or repeat times can be uncomfortable for some, especially when they are asked to disrobe. My approach for all my patients comes with humor to lighten the tension, and honesty above all else. I provide professional care as expected but believe in humor and conversation to fill the “void” and ease discomfort. If the patient is talkative, I am a great listener. If the patient is shy, I can gauge how much conversation and humor is appropriate. Overall, not only will the patient have a very thorough exam and expert advice, but they will always leave with a good experience that was not as intimidating as they may have expected.

What do you like to do when you are not in the office treating patients?

My family is my life, and my daughter is my favorite person. Any opportunity I have to spend the days away with her along with my multiple animals (dogs, cats, fish, chickens, and ducks) are the best days. I’m a homesteader enthusiast so most days I am working on my property with the animals and landscape or indoors preserving the bounties of my harvest. Summer is my all-time favorite season and all the activities that come along with it such as going to the beach, Canobie Lake Park, water parks, Six Flags, kayaking, fishing, hiking, you name it.

What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Michelle and Her Team

If you’re seeking dermatological care, no matter how routine or complex, Michelle and her team at Optima Dermatology offer exceptional services and have the advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care.

Michelle is currently accepting new patients at our Bedford, NH location. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 603-942-2003.

When it comes to your skincare routine, it’s important to consult with your dermatologist to understand the right products for your needs. With so much misinformation available online, consulting with an expert will save you time, money and potential skin and health issues. Dr. Gregory Delost of our Mentor, OH location recently sat down with David Moss of New Day Cleveland to talk about which skincare trends we should incorporate into our routine to maintain healthy skin, and which to skip.

Here’s What You Need to Know About Mohs Micrographic Surgery for Skin Cancer

Mohs surgery is considered to be the most effective technique for treating skin cancer and has been shown to result in cure rates of up to 99% in skin cancer patients. We’re proud to offer this surgery to our patients at two Optima Dermatology locations. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, Mohs surgery can be a great option. Providing Mohs surgery uniquely allows Optima Dermatology to deliver a full scope of skin cancer treatment in-house, making the treatment process easier for our patients.

Our board-certified micrographic dermatological surgeons, Dr. Brienne Cressey, who serves patients at our Stratham, NH practice, and Dr. Sherry Yu, who serves patients at our Macedonia, OH practice, have provided answers to the most frequently asked questions our patients have about Mohs surgery. Here’s what you need to know about this skin cancer treatment to help inform you of your options and how this approach can help.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery FAQs

Q: What is Mohs Micrographic Surgery and how does it work?

A: The Mohs procedure involves surgically removing skin cancer layer by layer and examining the tissue under a microscope until healthy, cancer-free tissue around the tumor is reached. This process allows the removal of all cancerous cells for the highest cure rate while sparing healthy tissue and leaving the smallest possible scar.

Mohs micrographic surgery is the gold standard for the treatment of skin cancers on cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face, areas with limited tissue mobility for wound closure like the hands/feet/scalp or shins, and for aggressive or recurrent skin cancers.

Q: When speaking to patients about Mohs surgery, how is the process explained?

In excisions, the tissue is sent to pathology, and slices are reviewed, similar to slices of bread. A larger skin margin is needed since the entire border is not evaluated.

However, Mohs surgery removes and processes skin cancer with a small healthy tissue margin. A helpful comparison is to think of it as a pie crust and pie filling. The pie filling is the tumor and the healthy tissue margin is the pie crust.

We remove a narrow healthy tissue margin around the skin cancer and examine the entire peripheral margin and deep margin (pie crust). If any skin cancer is identified, we take an additional margin of skin in that area. Once the “pie crust” is 100% clear, we know the tumor has been removed. This process provides the highest cure rate.

Q: When would a dermatologist recommend Mohs surgery over other skin cancer treatment options?

Mohs surgery is most often recommended for skin cancers on the face, neck, hands, and feet where it is most important to spare as much normal skin tissue as possible. It is also ideal for situations where tumors may be large, aggressive, or recurrent.

Q: What are the advantages of Mohs surgery for skin cancer removal?

Because the entire skin margin is evaluated, Mohs surgery conserves tissue as it requires a smaller margin of normal tissue compared to standard excisions. There is precise microscopic control of the entire tumor margin and as a result, Mohs surgery is the most highly effective approach to skin cancer treatment.

By maintaining skin tissue, Mohs surgery helps cure patients while protecting the areas of their skin that require treatment.

Q: What can patients expect from Mohs surgery?

Patients should expect to be at our office for several hours on the day of surgery. After surgery, they will go home with a large bandage and likely have some restrictions in activity for several days to several weeks.

Mohs surgery is performed using a local anesthetic to numb the area. We talk to each patient during the procedure so you are aware of what is going on. Once clear skin margins are obtained, the area is often sutured to provide the best cosmetic outcome possible.

Next, we asked each of our Mohs surgeons a little bit about their career paths and backgrounds. Exception patient care is at the core of what we do at Optima Dermatology, and our surgeons are truly experts in their field.

Q: What type of education and training is required to become a Mohs surgeon, and what led you to choose this particular career path?

Dr. Sherry Yu: I earned my medical degree from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. I completed my residency in dermatology through the Harvard Combined Dermatology Residency Training Program and a fellowship in Mohs micrographic surgery and dermatologic oncology at Yale University School of Medicine.

I have always liked the balance of medicine and surgery in dermatology and, more specifically, Mohs surgery. Additionally, much of my academic research has focused on how medical conditions affect quality of life and how many chronic skin diseases have been shown to have a significant impact on patients.

Dr. Brienne Cressey: I studied Biochemistry and Chemistry at The University of Maine. I then went to Tufts University for medical school where I received my MD and MBA, followed by my internship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and a dermatology residency at New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell in New York City.

I then continued to be a Dermatologic Oncology Fellow at Dermatology Professionals in Rhode Island, working under Dr. Nathaniel Jellinek to complete my Fellowship in Mohs Micrographic Surgery, facial reconstruction, and lasers and cosmetics.

I have always enjoyed the complexity of dermatology and the procedural aspect of the field. I’m able to combine Mohs surgery with my favorite aspects of medicine to deliver the most impactful and well-rounded patient care.

Q: Do you work with dermatologists outside of Optima Dermatology, and what do those relationships look like?

We do – and we are very grateful for our outside referring dermatologists and their patients. We strive to keep your dermatologist in the loop and will send them information when you have scheduled your appointment and again when you have had your surgery. After surgery, you will return to your dermatologist for regularly scheduled follow-ups.

We work with dermatologists at the VA, other dermatology practices, and primary care practices in the area. Our offices receive biopsy pathologies and referrals. Once this information is received, our team will contact you to review the Mohs procedure, discuss your expectations and concerns, answer any questions, and schedule your appointment.

Optima Dermatology offers Mohs surgery at our Stratham, NH, and Macedonia, OH locations. You can call us at (855) 277- 9689 to learn more!