McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery – Richardson

Like most of us, you probably started the year with a list — at least in your head — of all the things you’d do to make 2024 the best year ever. For many of us, that list began with an annual physical with our GP, pelvic exam with the gynecologist, and that all-important mammogram.

Check. Check. Check.

But wait, did you forget something?

Just as important as other routine checkups is an annual skin-cancer screening. The dermatology professionals at McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery want to help you stay proactive in protecting your skin’s health with an annual skin exam. It’s fast, painless and, with offices in Plano, Prosper, Flower Mound, Murphy, Richardson, or Frisco, there’s a McGuiness Dermatology near you.

Why it’s Important

Nurse Practitioner Monica Bang explained it like this. “If you’ve had five or more sunburns in your life, your risk for melanoma doubles. While your annual physical with your PC is important, they’re not looking at your skin. During a routine skin check, your dermatology provider is looking at every inch of your body and places that are hard for you to monitor on your own, such as your back and your scalp.”

Monica and her colleagues recommend an all-over skin check once a year, or more often if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer. “Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. — and worldwide,” she said. “Every adult can benefit from a yearly skin check and, if your medical history indicates you need it more often, most insurance companies will cover additional checks.”

Early Detection is Vital

The numbers of skin cancers diagnosed in the U.S. each year has steadily increased, over the past 50 years. That number may indicate that more people are being diligent about having their annual exams. That’s encouraging because, as with most cancers, the sooner skin cancer is detected, the far greater the treatment success rate. “We all know sun exposure and use of tanning beds increase the risk of skin cancers,” said Leisa Hodges, DO, FAAD, FAOCD. “But skin cancers can also occur in areas of the body that haven’t been exposed to sunlight. By doing a thorough full-body skin examination, I’ve found skin cancers in areas that patients weren’t concerned about.”

“A full-body skin exam is not only vital for detecting skin cancer, but it also allows for the identification of other abnormalities that may require further investigation or treatment,” said Physician Assistant Sheryl Gyr. “Full-body skin exams are one of my favorite things to do because I liken it to being a detective uncovering important clues. Everything I need to know is right there on the patient’s skin. It’s just a matter of finding it. And again, outcomes are greatly improved the earlier we can detect any issue with the skin.”

According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. While certain demographics are at higher risk for skin cancer, truly anyone can get it and not just in the sun-exposed areas you might think. “Did you know cancers like melanoma can occur not only on the skin, but also in the eyes, nails, and mucosa?” asked Dr. Marcus Tan. “Melanoma can be highly curable if caught early. A comprehensive skin examination by a qualified dermatologist can absolutely save your life.”

Meet the Experts

Marcus Tan, MD, FAAD, FRCPC is a dual-board-certified dermatologist with a special interest in in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. With a keen eye for detail and specialized training spanning more than a decade, Dr. Tan is known for his diagnostic acumen, and he enjoys managing dermatologic conditions, including but not limited to acne, eczema, psoriasis, alopecia, and skin cancers. He believes in providing high-quality, patient-centered care backed by robust scientific evidence. His empathetic nature and ability to establish strong rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds have earned him the trust of his patients.

Dr. Leisa Hodges is a board certified dermatologist with a long history of studying and working in the medical field. She worked for two decades as a medical technologist before obtaining her medical degree from the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine in Glendale, Arizona, and completing a dermatology residency at the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth. Dr. Hodges loves helping her patients achieve the beautiful skin they’ve always desired. She’s particularly interested in surgical, medical, and pediatric dermatology.

Sheryl Gyr, MPAS, PA-C is a certified physician assistant who takes a personal and compassionate approach to patient care. Sheryl graduated from the University of Kansas in 1997 with a BA in history of art with an emphasis on high Italian renaissance art. She completed her master’s in physician assistant studies from The University of Texas at Southwestern Medical Center and earned diplomate status with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. She has been practicing as a dermatology PA since 2005.

Monica Bang is a board certified nurse practitioner with a specialty in dermatology. With over 15 years in the medical field, she emphasizes individualized care for each of her patients. Monica received her Bachelor of Arts in biology and her Master of Science in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. She worked in a medical dermatology office in Los Angeles specializing in laser treatments for acne, acne scars, and skin rejuvenation before moving back to Texas to be near family. Her clinical interests are sun protection, acne, and skin rejuvenation.

McGuiness Dermatology & Plastic Surgery offers excellence in general and cosmetic dermatology, plastic surgery and aesthetic services including Coolsculpting, Botox and Dysport, dermal fillers, dermaplaning, microneedling, chemical peels, laser skin rejuvenation, laser hair removal, and tattoo removal. Call (972) 316-4555 to schedule an appointment at the Plano, Prosper, Flower Mound, Murphy, Richardson, or Frisco office. For a complete list of locations visit McGuinessDermatology.com