Difference Between a Dermatologist and a Medical Dermatologist?
As the need for skin health becomes more obvious, the majority of the population encounters the words dermatologist and medical dermatologist. These two words are two different things; however, most of the time, the confusion is about which one they refer to. Knowing what they are different allows people to figure out which doctor is best for their treatment when they have skin problems.
In consequence, dermatology has different subdivisions, each representing a different part of skin care. Among these departments, general dermatology and medical dermatology are two main pillars that are frequently used interchangeably but are not always recognized distinctly.
Understanding Dermatology
1. General Dermatology
It is primarily concerned with diagnosing and treating those skin problems that are most commonly seen, for example, acne, eczema, hives, dermatitis, and fungal infections. Besides treatment, general dermatologists also provide patient education about preventive strategies and daily skin-care routines.
2. Cosmetic Dermatology
Works to make the skin look and feel better. Some of the procedures that a cosmetic dermatologist may perform include chemical peels, Botox, fillers, microneedling, and skin-brightening treatments. They help remove wrinkles, pigmentation, scarring, and sun damage.
3. Pediatric Dermatology
This is a branch that focuses on the skin of kids who may have issues like birthmarks, rashes, atopic dermatitis, and skin diseases due to the child’s congenital conditions. Besides, a pediatric dermatologist is specifically educated not only to address problems that are unique to different ages but also to employ safe, child-friendly ways.
4. Dermatologic Surgery
The phrase is employed for the elimination of skin cancers, moles, cysts, and benign growths by surgical methods. Doctors in the dermatologic area have the power as well as the expertise to perform such operations as biopsies, excisions, and minimally invasive treatments.
In general, dermatology is a multi-faceted care provider, offering a range of services from daily skin care to surgical interventions to cosmetic procedures and minor surgeries.
What Is Medical Dermatology?
Medical dermatology is a specialized field of dermatology focused on the identification and treatment of diseases that impact general health. Often, a medical dermatologist will be the one to handle complicated, chronic, or systemic skin conditions that need an in-depth knowledge of internal medicine.
Key Areas of Medical Dermatology
1.Chronic Skin Disorders
These disorders, caused by the skin, such as psoriasis, vitiligo, rosacea, and chronic eczema, are very serious and require medical attention for the rest of a patient’s life. Medical dermatologists can design personalized treatment plans that may consist of the use of drugs by prescription, phototherapy, or cutting-edge therapies.
2. Autoimmune and Systemic Diseases
Some skin issues are due to body’s immune system going away internally. Hence, medical dermatologists are the ones who handle the cases of lupus, dermatomyositis, and other kinds of the autoimmune diseases, so they may collaborate with rheumatologists and other specialists.
3. Infectious Skin Diseases
Their skill is to detect and treat infections caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi, such as herpes zoster, cellulitis, and severe fungal infections; thus, they promote the patients’ early intervention and the prevention of complications.
4. Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Management
Medical dermatologists are instrumental in the process of preventing, unveiling, and eradicating skin malignancies like melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. Their job frequently consists of performing biopsies, following up with patients at high risk, and facilitating treatment plans.
Dermatologist vs. Medical Dermatologist: Key Differences
1. Scope of Practice
- Dermatologist: Covers single general, cosmetic, surgical, and pediatric dermatology specialist. They handle regular problems and do elective aesthetic procedures.
- Medical Dermatologist: Is a single specialist who only deals with complex medical issues related to skin and diseases that affect the skin.
2. Treatment Goals
- Dermatologist: Takes the role of soothing skin problems that are common and beautifying through the help of cosmetic care.
- Medical Dermatologist: The main role is to figure out the initial symptoms of severe or long-lasting diseases and to stop the development of complications that have been there for a long time.
3. Type of Patients
- Dermatologist: Helpful in acne, mild eczema, hair loss, rashes, cosmetic concerns, and skin care, which is done regularly.
- Medical Dermatologist: Be the one when signs are continuing, unexplained, or associated with other medical problems, such as an autoimmune disorder or a situation where there is a repeated infection.
Looking for Expert Skin Care?
If you want a doctor who can both treat the routine problems and also help with complex skin conditions, then Magnet Health NY is the right place for you, where you can meet experienced dermatologists who are committed to giving you personalized, and evidence-based care. They are there for you, from simple visits to advanced medical treatments. Your skin is their priority. Find out more or make an appointment here.