Was your experience with a derm similar?

May 29, 2014

Jenna L.

I went to see my first dermatologist today and I had such high hopes.
The guy barely spoke to me.
Didn't ask for any history on my skin or acne.
Didn't even really care about my medical background. Just said "oh well" when I said I couldn't take hormonal treatments.
He didn't even ask what types of skin problems I was experiencing.
He never asked me to remove my makeup to actually SEE my skin.
He just kept pushing these 2 antibiotics on me that "night work" in 6 months. But no referrals as to what to use for cash wash or anything.
He seriously didn't even introduce himself or ask for my name.
And now he's prescribed me these two "possibly irritating" products for my skin that can worsen with sun exposure and will probably make my face a lot more red and more open pores.
And I'm very skeptical to take either of these because he doesn't even know my specific situation and he seemed so rush.
The appointment upset me so much, like he didn't even care to be helpful or listen.
Is this regular treatment for an apmt with your doctor?

May 29, 2014

Kitty K.

No, any dermatologist worth his/her money needs to know about your skin. There's no point to just throw medications. Sounds like he's trying to catch a quick buck. ( There are products that they push to get their share of the profits. )

May 29, 2014

Sarah M.

Not at all! You should totally look for another physician. Bedside manner is huge when finding a doctor, they teach us that in our program. You need a doctor who's going to sit down and talk with you about your history and recommend different methods to help you. They should talk with you about what you witness yourself and what they can notice upon your visit and find a treatment plan according to your needs. That's not at all normal and unfortunately it's the sad truth that some physicians don't care enough to help their patients. You need to feel comfortable with your dermatologist so keep looking for someone who's a right fit! Good luck :)

May 29, 2014

Caitlin M.

I'd definitely find someone else. That is just unprofessional and very rude. My first appointment was a lot different than I thought it would be. It was a lot quicker than I was expecting and I feel like I should have asked more questions but overall I was very happy with her demeanor and the results of what she prescribed me. If you don't mind my asking whar were you prescribed? Like what are the brand names and product types? I definitely think you should see another one but all hope may not be lost if he actually did give you something good lol.

May 29, 2014

Roz X.

With Yelp and Foursquare, finding a derm is easier than ever. I always do recon...even when the referral comes from another, trusted doctor. I'm so sorry that you had a horrible experience!

I've never worn makeup for a skin consultation, but I'm not surprised they didn't ask you to remove it. The magnifying lens and light examine your complexion closely. I do, however, feel that your medical history and past experiences, goals and concerns should have been discussed thoroughly! To not even look you in the eye and shake your hand to introduce himself is also completely unacceptable. So rude! A great derm lays out a plan of action from washing to moisturizing...including either providing products or a printed/hand written list of specific product names and their use. They also schedule a follow up and have a staff that can field common questions prior to your follow up. Diet, routine, allergies...these should also be explored during an initial consultation.
I've been seeing my current derm for five years and she's fantastic, but I had to kiss a frog or two before discovering her. Don't lose hope. Do some research online for a new derm or ask a trusted friend, family member or physician for a referral.

Might I inquire as to what his diagnosis and recommendations for treatment were?

May 29, 2014

Roz X.

It's no guarantee, but it beats going in blind. ;)

May 30, 2014

Jenna L.

Since he didn't actually look at my skin to see the severity of it or it's condition he didn't diagnose anything. He said to start taking these pills and using this topical cream and go see my family doctor in 6 months...
Like no follow up, no notes. No recommendations on diet or washing products.
Unfortunately I live in a smaller town, so there is no derm that lives here, he visits every 3 months, but it's takes 6 months to get the apmt booked.
I have another apmt booked in a city 6 hours away so I'm hoping I can make it to that because he's supposed to be a great derm.
I'll figure out what the products were he prescribed me and post later tonight