Dermatology Services: An Overview
Dermatology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions related to the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. Dermatologists are board-certified physicians who can address a wide range of concerns, from common issues like acne and eczema to complex conditions such as skin cancer detection and treatment.
Core Areas of Dermatology
Dermatology practices typically offer three main categories of services:
Medical Dermatology: Focuses on diagnosing and treating skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, rosacea, skin infections, and allergic reactions. Medical dermatologists also perform skin cancer screenings and biopsies to detect melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
Surgical Dermatology: Involves procedures to remove skin growths, cysts, moles, and skin cancers. Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized technique that removes skin cancer layer by layer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, offering the highest cure rates for certain types of skin cancer.
Cosmetic Dermatology: Addresses aesthetic concerns through treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, laser resurfacing, chemical peels, microneedling, and laser hair removal. These procedures aim to improve skin texture, reduce signs of aging, and enhance overall appearance.
Top 3 Dermatology Practices in Nashville, TN
1. Vanderbilt Dermatology
Best For: Academic medical center care, complex dermatological conditions, and patients seeking board-certified specialists with research-backed approaches.
Philosophy: As part of Vanderbilt University Medical Center, this practice combines cutting-edge research with comprehensive patient care. All dermatologists are American Board of Dermatology certified and residency-trained, with Mohs surgeons being fellowship-trained.
Services:
- Medical Dermatology: General skin conditions, acne, eczema, psoriasis, allergic contact dermatitis patch testing
- Surgical Dermatology: Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer, dermatologic oncology
- Cosmetic Dermatology: Laser treatments, cosmetic procedures, skin rejuvenation
- Specialty Services: Pediatric dermatology, phototherapy, cutaneous lymphoma treatment, dermatopathology
Locations:
- One Hundred Oaks: 719 Thompson Lane, Suite 26300, Nashville, TN 37204
- Belle Meade: 56 White Bridge Road, Nashville, TN 37205
- Franklin: 2179 Edward Curd Lane, Suite 201, Franklin, TN 37067
Contact: (615) 322-6485 | vanderbilthealth.com/service-line/dermatology
Pricing: Insurance-based pricing. Accepts most major insurance plans. Contact the office for specific cost estimates.
2. Curcio Dermatology
Best For: Patients seeking a boutique, woman-owned practice with expertise in both Mohs surgery and cosmetic dermatology, located in the Green Hills area.
Philosophy: 100% independent and woman-owned, Curcio Dermatology focuses on personalized patient care without the influence of private equity or outside ownership. Dr. Natalie Curcio is one of few fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons in Middle Tennessee and the only dermatologist fellowship-trained in both Dermatologic Cosmetic and Laser Surgery.
Services:
- Medical Dermatology: Skin cancer screenings, acne treatment, rosacea management, psoriasis care
- Mohs Surgery: Highly specialized skin cancer treatment with highest cure rates
- Cosmetic Services: Botox, Kybella, dermal fillers (Juvederm, Voluma, Volbella), laser treatments
- Laser Procedures: Laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, vascular treatments
Location: 2125 Bandywood Drive, Nashville, TN 37215 (Green Hills)
Contact: (615) 679-9011 | curciodermatology.com
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Pricing (Estimated):
- Consultation fees vary by service
- No-show/late cancellation fee: $75 (72-hour notice required)
- Accepts most major insurance plans including Aetna, Humana, Cigna, Blue Cross, and United Healthcare
3. Nashville Skin: Comprehensive Dermatology Center
Best For: Patients seeking convenient access to multiple locations across Middle Tennessee, with expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology.
Philosophy: Nashville Skin combines integrity, compassion, and excellence to provide comprehensive dermatological care. The practice features board-certified dermatologists and a dermatopathologist who read all biopsy specimens in-house for accurate diagnoses.
Services:
- Medical Dermatology: Acne scars, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer detection, vitiligo, melasma, rosacea
- Skin Cancer Treatment: On-site Mohs surgery lab for comprehensive cancer care in one location
- Cosmetic Dermatology: Botox, Juvederm (Ultra Plus, Ultra XC, Volbella, Vollure, Voluma), laser resurfacing, microneedling, chemical peels, BBL treatments
- Specialty Services: Medical-grade skincare products, customized treatment plans
Locations:
- Hillsboro Village (Main): 2301 21st Ave South, Nashville, TN 37212
- Centennial: 335 24th Ave North, Suite 520, Nashville, TN 37203
- Antioch: 397 Wallace Road, Building C-402, Nashville, TN 37211
- Nolensville Pike: 6130 Nolensville Pike, Suite 103, Nashville, TN 37211
- Bellevue: 5700 Temple Road, Suite 201, Nashville, TN 37221
- Franklin: 2001 Mallory Lane, Suite 301, Franklin, TN 37067
Contact: (615) 327-9797 | nashskin.com
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM (hours vary by location)
Pricing: Insurance-based pricing. Contact the office for specific cost estimates and accepted insurance plans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How often should I have a skin cancer screening?
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends annual full-body skin exams for most adults, especially those with fair skin, a history of sunburns, a family history of skin cancer, or numerous moles. If you have had skin cancer previously, your dermatologist may recommend more frequent screenings every 3 to 6 months.
2. What is Mohs surgery and when is it recommended?
Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer, particularly basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. During the procedure, thin layers of cancer-containing skin are progressively removed and examined until only cancer-free tissue remains. It is typically recommended for cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas (face, ears, nose, lips), recurring cancers, or tumors with unclear borders.
3. What is the difference between a dermatologist and an esthetician?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who has completed medical school and specialized residency training in diagnosing and treating skin conditions, including prescribing medications and performing surgeries. An esthetician is a licensed skincare professional who provides cosmetic treatments such as facials, chemical peels, and skincare advice but cannot diagnose conditions or prescribe medications.
4. Will my insurance cover cosmetic dermatology procedures?
Most cosmetic procedures such as Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments for aesthetic purposes, and chemical peels are not covered by insurance as they are considered elective. However, some procedures may be covered if deemed medically necessary. For example, Botox may be covered for chronic migraines, and laser treatments might be covered for certain medical conditions. Contact your insurance provider and the dermatology office to verify coverage.
5. How do I prepare for my first dermatology appointment?
Before your first visit, compile a list of your current medications, skincare products, and any supplements you take. Note any skin concerns, changes in moles, or symptoms you have noticed. Remove nail polish if you have nail concerns, and come with a clean face if possible. Bring your insurance card and identification. Be prepared to discuss your medical history, family history of skin conditions or skin cancer, and any allergies you may have.