IS MY APPOINTMENT A DERMATOLOGY VISIT OR A COSMETIC VISIT?
The Tea:
A typical dermatologist can diagnose and treat an extensive variety of skin conditions. If you’ve never been to a dermatologist, start here before heading to your first “derm” appointment. Since dermatologists are skilled in all-things-skin, it is no surprise that some choose to focus on elective dermatology treatments, or cosmetic dermatology.
For a better explanation:
Dermatologists primarily diagnose and treat skin conditions and disorders; these conditions are usually deemed medically necessary to treat.
Dermatologists can also practice cosmetic dermatology, which typically involve conditions that aren’t medically urgent. Treatments are also completely voluntary for the patient.
Insurance Coverage
As for any typical doctor’s visit, health insurance plays a major role in the cost you may pay out of pocket. Without any health insurance, your costs for doctor’s visits (and prescriptions) are usually expensive and can increase significantly if your doctor is a specialist, such as a dermatologist.
PRO TIP: Always check your insurance coverage before visiting any type of doctor. This ensures you are paying the least amount of money out of pocket in the long run.
You may decide that you need to visit a dermatologist for a long list of reasons. But since those specific reasons can cost you in the end, it is always smart to do your research before arriving to the appointment.
A routine dermatology appointment, or “specialist office visit”, can definitely be covered by an insurance plan. These appointments are either routine, such as a yearly checkup, or you’re experiencing some type of skin issue or concern. A dermatologist can often perform an exam, provide you with a diagnosis, and give you a variety of treatment options all in one visit. For example, there are several treatment options for acne, whether it’s a mild or severe case. Even the mildest of symptoms, such as dry skin and itchiness, can be treated by a dermatologist and covered by your insurance. It is important to note that some medical concerns and some cosmetic concerns can overlap, which in turn may cost you more out of pocket (prime examples are acne and acne scarring).
For a number of other skin concerns, such as unsightly moles, sagging skin, and hyperpigmentation, medical necessity isn’t a basis for treatment. These skin issues usually have no threatening symptoms other than that they can cause frustration and discomfort for the patient. Since these concerns are not medically necessary, insurance companies see these issues as cosmetic concerns, therefore they typically will not pay for their diagnosis and/or treatments. These voluntary dermatology visits are called cosmetic consultations, in which expenses are completely covered out-of-pocket (unless you have the hook-up and if you do, let’s share).
What is a Cosmetic Consultation?
A cosmetic consultation is very similar to a typical doctor’s appointment except it is entirely patient focused. During a consultation, the dermatologist will work with the patient to assess any possible areas of concern. The doctor may use a handheld mirror and take ‘before’ photos during the examination as well. All possible treatment options are then discussed with the patient, including all benefits as well as any risks. The doctor may sometimes ask patients’ motivation for treatment, just in case the patient is misinformed or has the wrong expectations.
Appointment Duration
Your dermatologist can treat a wide range of cosmetic concerns and some can be done the same day of your consultation if their schedule allows for it. Depending on your concern, the duration of your appointment will vary as well.
Simple procedures and treatments like Botox and chemical peels can take about 30 minutes or less when performed by a skilled, board-certified dermatologist.
The “less” depends on whether it’s a touch-up or completely new Botox treatment
The type and strength of your chemical peel will determine the duration of your treatment
More complex options such as injectable fillers and surgeries can take about one hour or several hours.
The type and location of your filler(s) will be the main factor in determining the duration of your appointment
Once again, the dermatologists’ skill level is important in determining the duration of your surgery, whether superficial or intensive