Office FAQs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The team at Keystone Dermatology are experts in the field of dermatology and Skin Cancer. Ask our trusted providers or read our frequently asked questions below to learn more.
More Questions?
If you still have questions or believe you may need to visit a dermatologist, we are your home for healthy skin! Keystone Dermatology is here for all your general, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology needs. If you have a question not answered here, feel free to email our office staff at info@keyderm.com, or our nurses at nurse@keyderm.com.
General Dermatology Questions
Dermatology is a specialized field of medicine focused on the health of the skin, hair, nails, and scalp, covering a wide range of medical, cosmetic, and surgical treatments. Dermatologists are experts in diagnosing and treating skin conditions and addressing cosmetic concerns related to the skin, hair, and nails. Whether you're dealing with skin diseases or looking for cosmetic enhancements, a dermatologist can provide comprehensive care to maintain and improve your skin's health and appearance.
The providers at Keystone Dermatology are skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of many hair, skin, and nail conditions ranging from common chronic conditions like acne, rosacea and psoriasis to more serious matters such as skin cancer. Our team can diagnose skin cancer through Total Body Skin Exams (TBSEs) and offer treatments such as Mohs Micrographic Surgery. If you have a chronic skin issue, suspicious mole, or skin cancer, schedule an appointment with one of our trusted skin experts.
At Keystone Dermatology, we follow the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for skin cancer screenings. We encourage those who have had previous skin cancers or have other high risk skin cancers to be evaluated at least annually.
Skin Cancer & Surgical Dermatology Questions
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that, while less common than other skin cancers, can spread rapidly and become life-threatening. It typically starts on the skin but can also develop in other areas of the body, such as under the fingernails or toenails, and even in the eye.
The first noticeable sign of melanoma is often a change in an existing mole. The appearance of a new, unusual mole is another warning sign to be aware of. Understanding the characteristics that distinguish a typical mole from an abnormal one can be crucial for performing self-examinations at home. The ABCDEs of melanoma can guide you in identifying what appears normal and what might require further evaluation by a dermatology professional.
(A) Asymmetry: when one half of a mole or mark is different from the other half
(B) Border: the edges of the mole or mark are scalloped, uneven, notched, or irregular
(C) Color: the mole or mark is not a uniform color throughout; it can be different shades of the same color, or pink, red, or white in a spot that is otherwise brown or black
(D) Diameter: if the mole or mark is 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser) or larger, it could be a melanoma, BUT it’s also possible for melanoma to be smaller than 6 mm
(E) Evolving: the mole or mark is changing in size, shape, color, or texture
If you notice any of these warning signs, it is important to schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists immediately. It is important to note that note that not all melanomas show these warning signs.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a form of skin cancer that originates in the basal cells, which are responsible for generating new skin cells as old ones shed. BCC commonly presents as a waxy bump but can also appear in different forms. It typically develops on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face and neck. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is believed to be a major cause of basal cell carcinoma. Protecting your skin by avoiding excessive sun exposure and using sunscreen can help reduce the risk of developing BCC.
Yes – Keystone Dermatology offers Mohs micrographic surgery, a precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer. It involves the step-by-step removal of thin layers of cancerous skin, which are immediately examined under a microscope until only cancer-free tissue remains. This method is highly effective in completely removing skin cancer while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Office Visit Questions
You should bring your driver's license or picture ID, insurance card, and co-pay to your first appointment at our practice. You can fill out patient forms here before your visit.
Yes, we ask that you please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment to avoid delays.
Yes, please bring your insurance card to every appointment. Per state guidelines and insurance company policy, we are required to check each visit to protect against insurance fraud.
Generally, a referral is not needed to visit our office. However, it's a good idea to check with your insurance company to determine if your specific policy requires one.
This varies based on your particular insurance plan, but most of our patients find that their insurance covers skin cancer screenings and general dermatology appointments. For more information about your coverage, please reach out to your insurance provider.
You can access your patient portal here. A link will be sent when you register, it is only active for 72 hours. Call the office at 215-999-3376 for a password reset if needed.