Frequently Asked Questions
Dermatology Partners in Wellesley, MA & Greater Boston Area
Cosmetic & Laser Dermatology
What is the difference between neuromodulator toxins and fillers?
Neuromodulator toxins (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, Daxxify®) and fillers treat different aspects of facial aging, including wrinkles and volume loss. Neuromodulator toxins work by relaxing facial muscles to soften dynamic wrinkles such as frown lines between the eyebrows (“11’s”), horizontal forehead lines, and crow’s feet. They can also improve lines around the mouth and neck.
Fillers restore volume beneath the skin at different depths to smooth deeper folds, enhance the lips or cheeks, and improve overall facial contours while maintaining natural balance. We often recommend a customized treatment plan that combines both for the most natural-looking facial rejuvenation.
Do laser skin treatments hurt, and how many sessions will I need?
Most laser treatments involve mild discomfort, often described as a light snapping or warm sensation. We use topical numbing cream and/or advanced cooling technology to maximize comfort.
The number of sessions depends on your specific concern and the type of laser used. For example, laser hair removal with the GentleMax Pro may require 5–10 sessions, while more aggressive CO₂ laser treatments for sun damage may require only one session. Improvements in pigmentation, redness, wrinkles, and acne scarring typically require multiple treatments spaced several weeks to months apart.
How long does it take to see results from cosmetic dermatology treatments?
Results vary depending on the treatment. Neuromodulator toxins typically begin working within 3–7 days and peak at about 2 weeks. Hyaluronic acid fillers provide immediate results, with continued improvement as they settle over 1–2 weeks.
Laser treatments may show initial improvement within the first week, with continued collagen remodeling and skin improvement over several weeks to months.
Medical Dermatology
What causes acne and what are the best treatment options?
Acne is a multifactorial condition caused by hormonal changes, clogged pores, excess oil production, bacteria, and inflammation. Treatment depends on the type and severity of acne.
Your dermatologist may recommend prescription topical medications, oral antibiotics, hormonal therapy, isotretinoin, or in-office treatments. A personalized treatment plan is key to reducing breakouts and preventing scarring.
How often should I have a skin cancer screening?
Most patients should have a full-body skin exam once per year. However, more frequent screenings may be recommended if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, significant sun exposure, tanning bed use, fair skin, or numerous moles.
Routine screenings help detect basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, atypical moles, and melanoma early—when treatment is most effective.
What is the difference between eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis?
Eczema (atopic dermatitis), psoriasis, and dermatitis can appear similar but are distinct conditions. Eczema often presents as itchy, dry, inflamed skin and is commonly associated with allergies. Psoriasis is an immune-mediated condition that causes thick, scaly plaques.
Dermatitis is a broader term referring to skin inflammation, including allergic or irritant reactions. A dermatologist can accurately diagnose and tailor treatment for each condition.
Surgical Dermatology (Including Mohs)
What is Mohs surgery and when is it recommended?
Mohs surgery (Mohs micrographic surgery) is a highly specialized, precise technique used to treat certain types of skin cancer. It is considered the gold standard for treating basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, particularly in cosmetically and functionally sensitive areas.
During the procedure, skin cancer is removed in thin layers. Each layer is immediately examined under a microscope, allowing the surgeon to evaluate 100% of the margins in real time. This process continues until all cancer cells are removed.
Mohs surgery offers:
- Cure rates of up to 99% for certain skin cancers
- Maximum preservation of healthy tissue
- Smaller scars compared to traditional excision
- Immediate confirmation of complete cancer removal
It is commonly recommended for skin cancers that are recurrent, aggressive, have poorly defined borders, or are located on high-risk areas such as the face, nose, eyelids, ears, lips, scalp, hands, and lower legs.
What should I expect during Mohs surgery?
Mohs surgery is performed in-office under local anesthesia and is typically completed in a single visit. While the procedure can take several hours, most of that time is spent waiting comfortably while tissue is examined.
The process includes:
- Numbing the area
- Removing a thin layer of tissue
- Examining the tissue under a microscope (about 45–60 minutes per stage)
- Repeating only where cancer remains
Once all cancer is removed, the area is repaired using stitches, a skin flap, graft, or natural healing depending on the location and size.
How long does Mohs surgery take?
Most procedures take approximately 2–4 hours, although more complex cases may take longer. The timeline varies because each layer must be carefully examined before proceeding.
Is Mohs surgery painful?
Mohs surgery is generally very well tolerated. Local anesthesia keeps the area numb during the procedure, so patients do not feel pain. Mild soreness afterward is common and can typically be managed with over-the-counter medication.
What is the recovery like after Mohs surgery?
Most patients return to normal light activities within 24–48 hours. Swelling and bruising are common—especially on the face—and usually improve within 1–2 weeks.
You will receive detailed wound care instructions to support healing and minimize scarring.
What is the difference between Mohs surgery and traditional excision?
In traditional excision, tissue is removed and analyzed after the procedure, often days later.
In Mohs surgery, 100% of the margins are examined in real time during the procedure. This allows for higher cure rates, less removal of healthy tissue, and a lower risk of recurrence.
What is the difference between Mohs surgery and Slow Mohs?
Both techniques examine 100% of surgical margins but differ in timing and processing.
Traditional Mohs: Tissue is examined immediately using frozen sections, and reconstruction is typically completed the same day.
Slow Mohs: Tissue is processed using permanent sections over 24–48 hours. Patients return later for reconstruction.
Slow Mohs is often used for melanoma or complex tumors requiring more detailed analysis, while traditional Mohs is most commonly used for basal and squamous cell carcinomas.
Will I have a scar after Mohs surgery or skin excision?
Any surgical procedure can leave a scar, but Mohs surgery is designed to minimize tissue removal and optimize cosmetic outcomes. Dermatologic surgeons use advanced reconstruction techniques to support the best possible healing. Most scars improve significantly over time.
Pediatric Dermatology
When should my child see a dermatologist?
Children should see a dermatologist for persistent or worsening skin conditions such as eczema, rashes, warts, acne, birthmarks, or concerning moles. If symptoms do not improve with over-the-counter treatments, a dermatologist can provide an accurate diagnosis and safe, effective care.
Are wart treatments and mole checks safe for children?
Yes. Dermatologists use age-appropriate, evidence-based treatments designed specifically for children. Early evaluation and treatment can improve comfort and support long-term skin health.
How can I tell if my child’s rash is serious?
Seek medical care if a rash is spreading quickly, painful, blistering, associated with fever, or not improving with basic care. A dermatologist can determine whether the cause is eczema, infection, an allergic reaction, or another condition and provide targeted treatment.
Aesthetic Services & Professional Skin Care
What is microneedling and what does it treat?
Microneedling uses tiny sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, often combined with targeted serums. This stimulates collagen production and improves fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, uneven texture, and mild pigmentation.
Mild redness is common after treatment, and results improve over several weeks. Multiple sessions are typically recommended.
What is the difference between a HydraFacial and a traditional facial?
A HydraFacial is a medical-grade treatment that uses vortex technology to cleanse, exfoliate, extract impurities, and hydrate the skin in one session. It also delivers targeted serums to improve tone, texture, and overall radiance.
Many patients prefer HydraFacial for its immediate results and minimal downtime.
When should I start professional skin care treatments?
There is no “perfect” age. Many patients begin in their 20s and 30s for prevention, while others start later to address concerns such as acne, scarring, sun damage, or fine lines.
We also offer teen-focused treatments, including peels and extractions. Your provider can recommend a personalized plan based on your skin type and goals.
Injectables & Body Contouring
What is Kybella and does it permanently remove a double chin?
Kybella® is an FDA-approved injectable treatment that targets and destroys fat cells beneath the chin (submental fat). Once these fat cells are eliminated, they do not return, making results long-lasting when combined with a stable weight.
Most patients require a series of treatments for optimal results.
How long does it take to see results from body contouring treatments?
Results vary depending on the treatment, but most non-surgical body contouring procedures show gradual improvement over several weeks to a few months as the body processes fat and remodels tissue. Your provider will outline a customized treatment plan and timeline.
Are body contouring treatments painful?
Most non-surgical body contouring treatments involve mild discomfort, and generally are not painful. Many procedures require little to no downtime. Your provider can recommend comfort options and will review what to expect before treatment.