FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
Our team at South Coast Dermatology is made up of highly trained dermatologists, nurses, and aestheticians.
At South Coast Dermatology & Cosmetic Center, our patients often have questions about appointments, insurance, cosmetic treatments, and medical dermatology services. To help you prepare for your visit and get the most from your care, we’ve answered some of the most common questions below.
A: We offer comprehensive medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and dermatologic surgery. Our services include acne treatment, eczema and psoriasis care, skin cancer screening, mole checks, Mohs surgery, Botox®, dermal fillers, chemical peels, laser treatments, microneedling, skin tightening, and more.
A: This depends on your insurance. Some patients can self-schedule, while certain HMOs require a referral from your primary care provider. Please check with your insurance company before booking.
A: Yes! We welcome new patients for both medical and cosmetic services.
A: You can schedule by calling our office, submitting a request through our secure patient portal, or using our online booking tool.
- Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice will result in a $50 fee.
- No-shows (missed appointments without notice) will also incur a $50 fee.
- Additional repeat cancellations and no-shows will incur a $100 fee.
A: To provide the best care to all our patients and ensure appointment availability, we require at least 24 hours’ notice for any appointment changes or cancellations.
A: Please call us if you expect to be more than 10–15 minutes late. We’ll try to keep your appointment, but you may need to reschedule.
A: Bring your photo ID, insurance card, list of current medications, relevant medical records or biopsy results, and payment for any copays or cosmetic services.
A: For skin checks or procedures, come with a clean face and avoid heavy makeup or self-tanner.
A: South Coast Dermatology accepts most major insurance plans.
A: No, cosmetic procedures are self-pay and due at the time of service.
A: Even though we do not offer payment plans, we accept major credit cards and CareCredit.
A: Yes. Dermatologists are medical specialists, because insurance companies require us to bill all patient encounters using Evaluation and Management (E/M) or diagnostic procedure codes. Even if you visit us with no specific complaints for an annual full-body skin check, insurance rules classify this as a specialist medical evaluation, not a routine wellness physical.
Under insurance guidelines (including Medicare and commercial carriers), preventive care benefits are strictly reserved for Primary Care Providers (PCPs)—such as your family doctor, internist, or pediatrician.
A: Most adults benefit from a yearly full-body skin exam. Higher-risk patients may need more frequent visits.
A: Yes, we see patients of all ages.
A: Yes. If medically necessary, removal may be covered by insurance; cosmetic removals are self-pay.
A: Injectables, lasers & lights, fat reduction & skin tightening, skin rejuvenation.
A: Many treatments have little to no downtime, but some—like laser resurfacing—may require a few recovery days. Your provider will review your post-care plan.
A: Avoid alcohol, aspirin, and certain supplements for several days prior. You’ll receive full pre-treatment instructions from your provider.
A: Use the patient portal or have your pharmacy send an electronic request. Please allow 2–3 business days for processing.
A: Submit a Medical Release Form in person, by fax, or through the portal. Fees range from $10–$50, depending on record size.
A: Your provider will provide you with detailed care instructions.
A: Call our main number and follow prompts to reach the on-call provider. For emergencies, dial 911.
Still have questions? Contact our office at 781-335-9700 or send us a message through our secure Patient Portal below.
We’re here to help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin.