Both dermatologists and plastic surgeons care for the skin, but they do different things well. Here is a plain guide to which one to see, and when.
The short answer
See a dermatologist when you want a spot checked: a mole check, a mole map, a diagnosis, ongoing monitoring, or answers to your questions.
See Dr. Hayward, a plastic surgeon, when you want a spot looked at because you want it removed. Removal is the plastic surgeon’s role, and closing the skin so scarring is minimized is what plastic surgeons are trained to do.
If you are not sure which group you fall into, that is fine. Many people are not.
When a dermatologist is the right first stop
A dermatologist is the right specialist if you:
- Want a mole check or a mole map
- Want a spot or mole diagnosed
- Want a mole or skin change monitored over time
- Have questions about a spot and do not want it removed
A simple test: is the main reason for the visit to have it checked, or to have it removed? Checked, see a dermatologist. Removed, see Dr. Hayward. Her consultations are for lesions you are considering having removed.
When a plastic surgeon is the right choice
Dr. Victoria Hayward is a board-certified plastic surgeon and Chief of Plastic Surgery at Southlake Regional Health Centre. Part of her fellowship training focused on scar minimization. A plastic surgeon is the right choice if you:
- Want a mole looked at, but the main reason for coming in is to have it removed
- Want a mole, cyst, lipoma, skin tag or wart removed
- Have a growth on a visible area, such as the face, nose or scalp, where the closure and the scar matter
- Have a keloid or raised scar
- Have a lesion that needs to be removed and wants it done by a surgeon, with the tissue sent for pathology testing when it is needed
Dr. Hayward does not remove lesions on the lips. She can remove lesions on the nose and the body.
What if a spot might be skin cancer?
If a mole or lesion is changing, bleeding without an obvious reason, becoming painful or growing quickly, it should be assessed promptly. Do not spend weeks deciding between specialists. See when a changing spot needs assessment.
Dr. Hayward can assess the area and, when removal is appropriate, remove it. Lesions that are suspicious for skin cancer are covered by OHIP, and Dr. Hayward confirms this at your consultation. See how OHIP coverage works.
Do I need a referral?
No. You do not need a referral to book with Dr. Hayward. You can book directly with our clinic.
We work alongside dermatologists
We welcome referrals from dermatologists and family physicians. If you only need a spot looked at or monitored, we will tell you honestly that a dermatologist is the better fit.
Not sure where you fit?
Complete our Request a Consultation form and tell us about your concern. You can upload photographs through our secure patient portal after you submit. Dr. Hayward will let you know whether removal is the right next step or whether another specialist is a better fit.