If you’ve never been to a dermatology visit, it’s normal to be a little nervous or not know what to expect. Make sure you arrive early to your appointment to fill out any paperwork and update your insurance information. You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire about your medical history while waiting so your chart can be updated with any new information on medical conditions, surgeries, or medications.
When you’re called back to an exam room, you’ll likely be asked about why you are being seen. After giving your medical history, be prepared to let the nurse know what skin issues you have going on and what areas will need to be examined. It’s very helpful if you bring a list of the medications you are currently taking and be aware of any skin products you use regularly. Depending on the problems you are experiencing, you’ll likely be asked to remove your clothing and given a gown or drape to cover up with. Make sure the areas are able to be accessed easily. For example, if there is a rash on your foot, remove your socks and shoes. It’s also helpful if you refrain from wearing thick makeup that makes it difficult to adequately examine the face.
Your provider will come in to see you and examine the areas where you’re having problems. Don’t worry, we’ve seen it all! It’s okay if you forgot to shave or haven’t painted your toenails in a while. Sometimes a small magnifying light called a dermatoscope is used to look closer at spots. This is not painful and just gives a better look at the color and pattern of a lesion. Occasionally, a skin scraping may be done to check for certain skin conditions, like fungus. This is also painless, and might feel good if you’ve been itching.
If a suspicious lesion is found, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out anything malignant like skin cancer. The biopsy may be done that day or possibly scheduled for a later date. After a quick numbing shot with a slight sting, the procedure is painless. The lesion is sent off, and once results are returned, you will be contacted by the dermatology office.
If you would like more information, please contact us by calling the office at 706-691-7079. Savannah River Dermatology is located at 575 Furys Ferry Rd, Martinez, GA 30907.
