A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of conditions that affect the skin, nails and hair. Some of these conditions include, but are not limited to, acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer, moles, melanoma and skin tumours.
In Burnaby, dermatologists have to undergo rigorous training and graduate from an accredited medical school or osteopathic school in order to qualify. A dermatologist in Burnaby who is graduated from medical schools outside Canada is required by law to obtain a foreign graduate certificate before they are allowed to practice dermatology.
Just like other doctors, dermatologists have been trained and have completed at least one year in a residency program for clinical training in emergency medicine, family practice, gynaecology and obstetrics, paediatrics, general surgery or illness. Dermatologists are considered medical specialists because they trained doctors who have undergone special training in matters related to the skin condition.
A person with skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or skin cancer, is most likely referred to a dermatologist by their regular doctor. Due to their specialized training, a dermatologist is more suitable for treating skin conditions or help in managing them. Often, the treatments they offer include dermabrasion or chemical peels, laser resurfacing, tissue augmentation, hair transplant, liposuction or sclerotherapy (to treat vascular malformations).
