Administrative Office hours: Mon. -Thurs. at 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Fri. at 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM Doctors’ hours will differ from Administrative Office hours, please call for Doctors’ hours.
The Medical Quarters 5555 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd. NE, Suite 190 Atlanta, GA 30342 Phone: (404) 256-4457 Toll-Free: (800) 233-0706
Administrative Office hours: Mon. -Thurs. at 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fri. at 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Doctors’ hours will differ from Administrative Office hours, please call for Doctors’ hours.
The Medical Quarters 5555 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd. NE, Suite 190 Atlanta, GA 30342 Phone: (404) 256-4457 Toll-Free: (800) 233-0706
Since the 1970s, lasers have evolved and taken on many different forms to be able to treat a number of skin issues, from wrinkles to rosacea to unwanted tattoos, and even some types of skin cancer. But one of the most exceptional changes in laser technology has been the use of fractionated lasers. This newer technique, performed frequently at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta (DAA), offers the powerful and natural-looking results of traditional laser skin resurfacing but with significantly less recovery time. At DAA, we offer two of the most advanced technologies for fractional laser treatments: Fraxel® and DOT Therapy, and both have been delivering exceptional results for over ten years.
But what exactly is fractional laser skin resurfacing, and how does it lower the downtime so greatly while still producing exceptional results? In the video below, our very own Dr. Edmond Griffin, board-certified dermatologist and founder of DAA, explains the differences between traditional and fractionated laser treatments and how they can benefit you as a patient.
The idea of fractional skin treatments has now spread beyond the world of lasers as well. At DAA, we also offer procedures like Infini™ Skin Tightening, Réjuvapen® micro needling, and Fractora™ Facial Rejuvenation, all of which use the same principle: impacting tiny spots on the skin to produce an all-over healing and revitalizing effect. To learn whether one of these fractionated procedures can help you achieve smoother, younger-looking skin, schedule a consultation at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta. Or, for more skin care tips and the latest dermatology news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
If you’re one of the many Atlantans planning a beach getaway this summer, you’re probably knee-deep in preparations already, from making travel arrangements to researching all the hot spots you want to visit. But there’s one other way many of us prepare for swimsuit season: fine-tuning our physique so we can lounge on the beach in confidence. At Dermatology Associates of Atlanta (DAA), we’re here to help with cosmetic tweaks for a wide variety of common concerns.
Body Sculpting
One of the most common sources of poolside self-consciousness is unwanted fat, and it’s particularly frustrating when you realize that you can’t control where your body burns fat from, so you can be in excellent physical shape while still having areas of stubborn fat. A variety of cosmetic procedures, on the other hand, can target these specific areas for direct fat reduction. Our SlimLipo™ laser does double duty by making the fat easier to remove during liposuction while also toning and firming the skin around the treatment area for a more youthful silhouette. If you prefer non-surgical methods, CoolSculpting®, BodyFX™, and UltraShape® fat reduction are all non-invasive treatments that use their own unique methods to break down fat cells, producing gradual results.
Hair Removal
Body hair may be natural, but that doesn’t mean you need to live with it, and you also don’t need to spend every morning shaving to maintain your smooth skin. The providers at our dedicated hair removal center have over 20 years of experience and can recommend the ideal option for your skin and hair, whether it’s laser hair removal or electrolysis.
Spider Vein Treatments
Though they’re thought of as a problem our grandmothers have, spider veins can (and often do) affect people of all ages and genders. Fortunately, modern techniques can get rid of unwanted veins with little or no downtime. At our Atlanta Center for Veins, we offer sclerotherapy (injecting a solution into the targeted vein to allow the body to absorb it), laser spider vein removal, and Veinwave™ (using controlled warmth and ultrafine needles) depending on each patient’s unique needs.
Sweat Reduction
Even when you’re not in a bathing suit, summer can come with plenty of self-consciousness in the form of underarm sweat. But did you know you could be just one appointment away from being able to finally raise your arms in confidence? miraDry® sweat reduction is a procedure which uses microwave technology to target and damage the sweat glands in your underarms, leading to long lasting sweat reduction, and often producing ideal results in just one treatment.
We all have certain features we frown about when we look in the mirror, but your aesthetic treatments should always be tailored to you and your specific needs. That’s why it’s so important to work with an experienced and licensed provider who can offer you the most advanced technology and the best possible results. To find out how we can help you overcome your cosmetic concerns, schedule a consultation at DAA. Or, for more tips about skincare and cosmetic treatments, follow Dermatology Associates of Atlanta on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
One of the most versatile and game-changing medical advancements of recent decades has been the laser. Since the first medical use of a laser in the 1960s, the technology has continued to improve and become more and more adaptable, and today, it allows us to treat a wide range of skin conditions and cosmetic concerns in a minimally-invasive way. But at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta (DAA), we recognize that the success of a laser treatment is dependent on both the quality of the equipment and the experience of the provider. That’s why we’re proud to be home to the largest and most experienced laser skin treatment center in the Southeast: The Laser Institute of Georgia.
What is The Laser Institute of Georgia?
At DAA, we believe in the power of specialty centers – a way to give our patients specialized care by providers experienced in a specific area, yet maintain the convenience of offering everything from Botox® to skin cancer removal surgery (and anything in between) under one roof. That’s why we have nine unique specialty centers, and The Laser Institute of Georgia is where all our cosmetic and medical laser treatments are performed. With over 25 years of laser experience, The Laser Institute of Georgia offers the specialized knowledge required for safe and successful laser procedures, and we’re consistently updating our collection of lasers with the latest advancements in technology.
What procedures are performed at The Laser Institute of Georgia?
We focus on skin care from head to toe, and that means we provide both aesthetic and medical treatments. At The Laser Institute of Georgia, some of the more common procedures include:
Facial rejuvenation (offering several different types of lasers for customizable results)
Removal of brown spots like age spots, freckles, brown birthmarks, certain moles, melasma, and other hyperpigmentation
Scar reduction (including acne scars, surgical scars, and more)
Hair removal
Tattoo removal
Acne treatment
Rosacea treatment
Spider vein removal
Removal for red spots (like port wine stains, red birthmarks, and hemangiomas)
Skin cancer and pre-cancer treatment (in specific cases)
Psoriasis treatment
Skin firming
Wart removal (in some cases)
Keep in mind that although a laser treatment may be an option for your condition or concern, it might not be the ideal choice for your specific case, so schedule a consultation at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta with one of our board-certified providers to discuss your treatment options.
While laser treatments may be offered at a wide variety of facilities, spas, or even salons, remember that these are true medical procedures, and that your health shouldn’t be taken lightly. To get the best possible results AND the lowest risk of side effects, look for a facility like The Laser Institute of Georgia at DAA, who is affiliated with the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery and who employs only licensed and experienced board-certified dermatologists and medical professionals. For more helpful information and skin care tips, join us on Facebook, follow DAA on Twitter, and look for us on Google+.
The battle to control our bodies’ hair is not a new one, and for many of us, it’s a daily fight. Between shaving, waxing, threading, plucking, and other methods, removing unwanted hair can be time-consuming, pricey, inconvenient, and painful. That’s why longer-lasting hair removal treatments are so popular. Unfortunately, people all over the country stop themselves from seeking the procedure because they think it won’t work for their skin tone or hair color. So, at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta (DAA), we’re taking this opportunity to set the record straight by explaining how the color of your skin and hair affects long-term hair removal and how you can get that perpetually smooth skin regardless of your coloration.
One of the most well-known ways to achieve lasting hair removal is with laser treatments, and yes, this procedure is affected by the color of your hair. The laser light is attracted to and absorbed by the pigment in your hair, which allows the laser’s energy to travel down the hair and into the follicle. That energy damages the targeted follicle, making future hair growth difficult or impossible. Traditionally, laser hair removal has been most successful for those with light skin and dark hair – there’s more pigment to attract the laser to the hair, and the lack of pigment in the skin means less of the laser’s energy will be diverted to the skin. While this is still the case, advances in technology have made the treatment progressively safer and more effective for those with darker skin. As one of the few practices who participated in the trial testing for the first laser hair removal method and one of the most experienced laser centers in Georgia, DAA uses a specific type of laser with a longer wavelength for our darker-skinned patients.
With the appropriate group of lasers, all skin colors can be safely and effectively treated with laser hair removal, but hair color can be a different story. For patients with hair that has too little pigment to absorb the laser’s energy (like gray, white, or light blond hair), electrolysis can be an ideal option. Instead of using the hair to transport the laser’s energy into your skin, electrolysis uses a tiny metal applicator to deliver electrical impulses directly into the follicle. By destroying the individual hair follicles, electrolysis can effectively prevent hair growth.
While your hair color and skin tone are a few factors that affect your long-lasting hair removal treatments, there are a number of other aspects to consider as well. That’s why our first step for every hair removal patient is a consultation with one of our specialists to discuss treatment options and to design the best plan for their individual needs. To get started on the road toward smoother skin, schedule a consultation at DAA. Or, for more tips and helpful information about other cosmetic treatments, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
All it takes is a close look around a crowded room to realize that acne is extremely common. In fact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s the most common skin condition in the US. Unfortunately, “common” is often mistaken with, “doesn’t need treatment.” Allowing acne to simply run its course can cause long-lasting damage to the skin, like scarring. Plus, as you may experience first-hand, acne doesn’t always go away on its own. Fortunately, Atlanta skincare patients have several ways to overcome acne, and modern technology has opened many new doors.
Isolaz™
How does it work?The Isolaz™ system combines a variety of approaches. First, vacuum pressure is used to gently but effectively clear pores of excess oil and other debris that can clog them and lead to a pimple. Targeted light is then sent to the pores to kill acne-causing bacteria. Finally, the vacuum pressure is used to more effectively apply a topical medication.
Who can it help? Isolaz™ acne treatments are safe and effective for all skin types, and can treat bacteria-caused acne breakouts on the face, chest, and back.
What’s involved in the treatment? Isolaz™ treatments are brief, often lasting around thirty minutes or less, depending on the area being treated. While the number of sessions needed depends on the individual patient, treatments are painless and don’t require any downtime.
DiamondTome™ for Microdermabrasion
How does it work? DiamondTome™ is a microdermabrasion wand tipped with natural diamond chips. The wand exfoliates the skin to remove the damaged and dead cells on the skin’s surface, ensuring that these skin cells don’t clog the pores and cause acne breakouts.
Who can it help? Microdermabrasion at Skin Medics™ Medical Spa is only recommended for specific acne patients. Those who tend to have inflamed acne should generally avoid microdermabrasion, as the treatments can further inflame and irritate the skin.
What’s involved in the treatment?Microdermabrasion with DiamondTome™ does not require any downtime beyond the slight flushing immediately after treatment. However, the newly exposed skin can be more sensitive to light, so you should be especially vigilant about sunscreen use. The course of treatment varies, but many patients get optimal results after six to eight sessions.
Smoothbeam™ Laser
How does it work? One of the most common causes of acne is overactive sebaceous glands (the glands in the skin that produce a natural oil called sebum). Smoothbeam™ laser treatments shrink the sebaceous glands to stop overproduction of sebum.
Who can it help? Smoothbeam™ is typically best for those acne-prone patients who have particularly oily skin. The procedure also comes with some cosmetic benefits, like minimizing facial redness and fine lines.
What’s involved in the treatment?Most Smoothbeam™ acne patients can go right back to their daily activities after their procedure. However, as with all laser treatments, it is crucial to follow the provider’s instructions regarding sun exposure.
VBeam® Perfecta
How does it work? VBeam® Perfecta improves both the appearance of acne and some of the causes of the breakouts themselves. The treatments kill acne-caused bacteria and reduce inflammation of the skin, while also decreasing facial redness to give you an especially clear complexion.
Who can it help? While its ability to kill acne-causing bacteria makes VBeam® Perfecta an effective acne treatment for many patients, those who have facial redness along with their acne (like patients who also have rosacea or facial veins) are often the best candidates.
What’s involved in the treatment?Because the VBeam® Perfecta has customizable settings, every patient’s course of treatment is unique. The laser uses a cooling process to minimize patient discomfort, and while post-treatment sun protection is important, typically no downtime is required and any redness or swelling only lasts a few hours.
Like every skin condition, acne should be examined and treated by a board-certified dermatologist. Every patient’s skin is different, and everyone’s acne is different as well, so the key is for a dermatologist to match you with the best course of treatment for your individual needs, whether that means one of the procedures above, topical or oral prescriptions, or a combination of both. To start taking control of your acne, schedule an appointment at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta. Or, to learn more about the treatments we offer and the latest news in dermatology, join us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
Faces can reveal so much about a person—a single expression can tell us what a person’s thinking or how they’re feeling. But for rosacea sufferers, persistent blushing isn’t a reflection of their emotions, it’s a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness. Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes an inflamed, red appearance, sometimes along with visible blood vessels and swelling, on the cheeks, forehead, and chin. While it’s unknown what exactly causes rosacea, symptoms are triggered by certain stimuli that are specific to each patient, like sun exposure, certain foods, and stress. Unfortunately, despite patients’ best efforts to track and avoid their triggers, flare-ups can still occur, and while rosacea is a chronic condition, there are many options available to manage the symptoms.
Oral and Topical Antibiotics for Rosacea
For some flare-ups, the patient’s rosacea becomes irritated due to bacteria in the skin’s pores or on the surface of the skin. In this case, symptoms can be eased by using prescribed antibiotics. While topical antibiotics can kill the bacteria on the surface of the skin, oral antibiotics can address the bacteria that is deep within the skin’s pores. This can be an effective short-term treatment option, but because the bacteria gradually becomes more and more resistant to the drug, antibiotics aren’t generally used long-term. It’s also important for patients to be cautious with their use of antibiotics and take them exactly as prescribed by your Dermatology Associates of Atlanta (DAA) provider—don’t stop earlier than you’ve been instructed to, and don’t take anything that hasn’t been prescribed to you.
Laser Treatments for Rosacea
Unlike antibiotics, laser treatments can be effective in the long-term control of rosacea symptoms. By sending precisely-controlled heat and light energy into the treatment area, laser therapy can interfere with the blood vessels that are causing the appearance of redness and swelling, causing the treated blood vessels to be naturally absorbed by the body. Since 1997, our Laser Institute of Georgia has offered the highest quality of medical-grade lasers, and after decades of experience in treating rosacea, our physicians have both the expertise and the resources to use the precise laser and settings that are best suited to each patient’s skin type and condition, whether it be the Perfecta™, the Smoothbeam, or the FotoFacial® laser.
New Treatments for Rosacea
Soolantra® is the latest topical treatment for rosacea symptoms. By addressing another common irritants found on every person’s skin, once-daily application of Soolantra® can ease rosacea symptoms like inflammation. As an added bonus, the prescription-only cream has moisturizing elements too, so it can even replenish the much-needed hydration in your skin. Because rosacea can have a number of triggers at the same time, other prescription medications and topical compounds may also be prescribed.
Throughout our 35 years of treating rosacea at DAA, we recognize that while all of these rosacea treatments have been proven effective, every patient’s skin is unique. The only way to successfully treat your rosacea symptoms for the short-term and long-term is to work with a dermatologist who’s experienced in the treatment of rosacea. If you have rosacea (or if you think you might), schedule an appointment with us to work toward an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
In our technological age, information feels like a comforting blanket, and this is especially true when it comes to medical information. For many people, when they begin experiencing new or unusual symptoms, their first move is to go online: they want to know as quickly as possible what they’re dealing with, how serious it is, and where it came from. While it’s always good to be mindful of your health and to take note if something is “off,” our medical staff at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta (DAA) always cautions patients against self-diagnosis. Because so many skin conditions have similar visual symptoms, patients who attempt to self-diagnose often diagnose incorrectly, which can cause them to try ineffective, expensive, or sometimes medically unsafe treatments. Below are three skin conditions that are commonly mistaken for other conditions:
Hyperpigmentation
What it is: An over-production of melanin (which gives the skin its color) causing patches of skin that are darker than the patient’s natural skin color. This includes the pigmented patches that we often call age spots.
What causes it: Hyperpigmentation can be caused by a number of factors, including:
Over-exposure to the sun over time
Hormones – specifically, estrogen and progesterone may lead to hyperpigmentation in women who are either pregnant or are taking birth control, or
Inflammation – hyperpigmentation may manifest after inflammation from conditions like acne, poorly-administered chemical peels, or certain aggressive laser skin treatments.
Injuries – even minor skin injuries like a cut can result in a hyperpigmented scar when exposed to the sun
Symptoms to look for: Blotchy patches of skin that are darker than your natural skin color, especially on the face, chin, cheeks, forehead, upper lip, hands, chest, or legs.
Possible treatments: Depending on the specific conditions of your hyperpigmentation, as well as your skin type and many other factors, one of our providers at DAA will put together a treatment plan that may involve skin-lightening creams, laser skin resurfacing, laser treatments that target the pigmented patches, or chemical or natural peels at Skin Medics™ Medical Spa. However, it’s ideal to simply prevent hyperpigmentation in the first place whenever possible, and the best way to do that is by wearing sunscreen any time your skin is exposed to the sun.
Eczema
What it is: A chronic skin condition involving irritated, inflamed, and itchy patches of skin.
What causes it: The cause of eczema is not yet known, but observations have sparked theories involving immune overreactions, an especially sensitive dermis (the underlying layer of skin), genetics, household and beauty products, certain chemicals and foods, specific living organisms, fabrics, and the environment.
Symptoms to look for: Irritated, itchy, inflamed skin. Symptoms are not necessarily constant but flare up from time to time.
Possible treatments: Eczema is rarely able to be eliminated completely, so typically the best course of action is to treat symptoms as they arise. Eczema varies considerably from patient to patient, so one of our highly skilled providers will likely prescribe one or more of the following treatments: antihistamines (if the eczema is allergy-related), creams and customized prescription compounds, laser treatments, lukewarm baths, cold compresses, or using certain soaps and cleansers. However, as soon as your eczema symptoms arise, it is important to avoid scratching. Scratching can not only exacerbate symptoms, but can cause skin breakage which can easily lead to an infection.
Rosacea
What it is: A chronic skin condition involving red or inflamed skin on the central area of the face (i.e., cheeks, chin, nose, and forehead).
What causes it: The cause of rosacea itself is not yet known, although studies by the National Rosacea Society indicate that it tends to run in families. The symptoms are caused by dilated blood vessels just beneath the skin’s surface. Symptoms are not necessarily constant, but flare up occasionally and are often triggered by sun exposure, ingesting certain foods, or heavy exercise.
Symptoms to look for: Red, inflamed skin on the central face or, in rare cases, on the chest, ears, neck, or scalp. Rosacea most commonly affects Caucasian, fair-skinned women between the ages of 30 and 50, so for patients in this demographic, these symptoms are especially likely to indicate rosacea.
Possible treatments: There is currently no cure for rosacea, although there are multiple ways to treat the symptoms. Depending on the individual patient, a DAA provider will likely use laser treatments (such as FotoFacial® treatments, the Perfecta™ laser, or the Smoothbeam laser), oral or topical antibiotics, or, in extreme cases of a particular category of rosacea, a surgical procedure. It is important to note that even though acne often presents with rosacea as well, acne treatments alone will not address rosacea.
Knowing about various skin conditions is helpful in helping you identify a potential problem, but the most important thing to do if you suspect that you have a skin condition is to see board-certified dermatologist. This is the only way for skin conditions to be accurately and effectively diagnosed and treated. To become more informed about skin conditions and when to visit a dermatologist, follow DAA on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
At Dermatology Associates of Atlanta (DAA) we are all about simplifying our patients’ lives. The main goal of our website is to provide a one-stop-shop for just about anything you could possibly need relating to general and cosmetic dermatology. For some of you, our website is a great resource for keeping abreast on the latest happenings through our blog, staying connected through social media (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube & Google+) and even checking out the monthly specials!
One section some of you may not be familiar with is the “patient information” page. Here you’ll find everything from ways to pay your bill online, insurance information/financing options and our beloved DAA patient portal. The secure portal lets you check your demographic info, fill out medical forms online, read your clinical summaries and even send DAA messages via NexWeb , to name a few. For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of using the patient portal it essentially has features that are meant to help streamline all of your important information: it’s easy to setup, to use and in the end saves you time!
So, how would you like to win $500 DAA Bucks?
To shine a spotlight on our DAA patient portal, we are having a giveaway where one lucky patient will win $500 “DAA Bucks” good towards any of our cosmetic services or products (yes that includes treatments like Botox®, fillers, laser removal & more!). Entering is simple:
If you’ve had an appointment at DAA & seen one our providers between 10/1/2014 – 12/31/14 then you’re qualified to enter.
If you’re already registered, skip to the next step! For those of you who aren’t registered yet, have your DAA patient ID number handy (give us a call at 404-256-4457 & we’ll be happy to give it to you) and “create one now.”
From within the patient portal, send us a message saying “Enter me to win!” & you’re all set!
For more details, check out the infographic below. The giveaway ends December 31st, 2014 and we’ll randomly pick one lucky patient. Be sure to look for any messages in your NexWeb inbox when we announce the winner on January 1st, 2015 and also on DAA’s Facebook page; what a great way to start your new year!
If you have any questions about the patient portal, entering the giveaway, or anything else we may be able to assist you with, don’t hesitate to contact us. Best of luck to everyone and for all you Hunger Games fans, “may the odds be ever in your favor!”
When’s the last time you set aside a day just for you? Just in time for spring, you’re invited to our April 11th, 2012Cosmetic Day! Join us for savings on injectables like Botox® and Dysport® which help to relax the forehead muscles that cause wrinkles between the eyes. We’ll also have deals on Juvéderm®, Restylane®, Perlane®, and Radiesse® facial fillers to smooth lines and creases around the mouth and plump areas that have lost volume with age.
You can also receive $75 OFF cosmetic laser treatments and 20% OFF featured Skin Medics™ Medical Spa skincare products. Our popular Cosmetic Day only comes around once or twice a month, so make sure to clear your schedule and take advantage of these great offers! Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ to stay up to date on our upcoming events and future Cosmetic Days.
If you’ve been waiting since last month, don’t fret! Our March 2012 Cosmetic day is just around the corner. Join us March 7th, 2012. for great deals on injectables, cosmetic laser services, and skincare products!
Save on Juvéderm Ultra®, Juvéderm Ultraplus®, Restylane®, Perlane®, and Radiesse® facial fillers
Buy 1 syringe: $150 OFF. You pay $500.
Buy 2 syringes: 1st is $500, 2nd is $325. You pay $825.
Buy 2 syringes at regular price. You pay $1300, and the 3rd syringe is free.
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***ATTENTION PATIENTS***
For Prescription Refill Requests, please message us your needs through the www.mypatientvisit.com portal ONLY.
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Our Holiday Schedule:
Our offices will be closed Wednesday, November 22nd (starting at 12pm) through Sunday, November 26th for Thanksgiving week.
Our offices will be closed on Monday, December 25th and Tuesday, December 26th for Christmas.
Our offices will be closed Monday, January 1st for New Year’s Day.
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* Our specials are in full swing! Save big on laser hair removal, microneedling treatments, injectables, cosmetic laser treatments, and more. Click here to learn about specials and upcoming events!
* Due to construction project on I-285 with lane closures and massive traffic, we suggest leaving at least 1 hour before your appointment time if you travel I-285.* Click here to learn more about Cartessa™ Tetra Cool CO2 Laser Treatment * Click here here to learn about our latest protocols regarding COVID-19 and other illnesses