Visiting the dermatologist should be a simple and easy-going appointment. Whether you are there for a specific reason or just a general check-up visiting any North Dallas dermatologist pretty much offers the same protocol and outcome. Continue reading to find out more about what to expect on your first visit to the dermatologist.

A dermatologist visit often starts just like any other doctor visit with filling out paperwork and checking in. Once you have checked in and are finally able to see the doctor the appointment will typically start with a small conversation about the patient’s medical background. The dermatologist will ask questions about what brings you into the office, what your needs are and any issues you are concerned about. The dermatologist may also ask you about any medications or supplements you are taking as well as any previous medical surgery or health problems. Once the initial talk has been done the doctor will then move on to examine the patient’s body.

Typically if it is a patient-first time at the dermatologist the doctor will do an exam. This means the patient will typically undress down to their underwear and put on a gown so the doctor can examine the patient from head to toe. For quicker and easier results patients should wear simple comfortable clothing such as a slip-on dress or even shorts and sandals for the most convenience. It is also best if patients refrain from wearing jewelry and other time-consuming items that might need to be removed such as scarves, hats and more.

Once the patient is in a gown and ready the doctor will then examine the entire body for any visible issues. This includes looking for moles, freckles and other marks on the body. The doctor may use magnifying glasses or other instruments to check marks and lesions. The doctor may ask questions such as how long you have had a mole or if you have noticed any changes in the growth of moles or freckles on your body. This may take some time depending on how many spots the patients have and how thorough the doctor is with their exam.

After assessing any moles or marks the doctor may find something that requires a biopsy. Although this does not automatically mean something is wrong it does mean they would like to look at an area for closer observation. Typically during a biopsy, a piece of the area is removed and sent to the lab for further observation. This can help detect early cancer and other health issues. Should the doctor do a biopsy they will follow up with the patient in a few short weeks to discuss what the results were. More often than not biopsies are nothing to be to concerned with.

Visiting a dermatologist on a regular basis and also performing your own self-examinations can help individuals catch early signs of skin cancer and other skin conditions. Check the body regularly for moles, freckles and other changes on the skin. When in doubt visit a dermatologist who has all of the tools, experience, and knowledge to deal with skin issues. Some of the key things that dermatologists deal with are acne, psoriasis, dandruff, rosacea and a variety of other hair, skin and nail conditions. If anyone suspects that they have some sort of skin issue or condition they should visit a dermatologist immediately as they typically offer quick and painless results.