I had not been to a dermatologist in 15 years, so I was overdue for a check-up, and already knew…read morethere were some possible skin cancers. After a thorough inspection and 9 biopsies, they discovered 6 skin cancers. Thankfully, all were the more common and least dangerous - still, they needed treatment.
Oasis Dermatology Group has multiple locations. I first went to their Weslaco location where my initial examination was done, and biopsies performed. With either location, as you arrive, you need to check in, take a seat in their waiting room, and they will call you when it is your turn. If it's your first visit, be prepared to fill out some standard forms and provide your insurance information.
Both locations have multiple doctors and nurses on staff, and some can be seen at both locations. Throughout nine months of examination, consultations, treatment and follow-up, I seldom saw the same doctor more than twice. I was seen by 7 or 8 of their doctoral staff. However, that was never an issue, as I found them all professional, pleasant, skilled, and informed about my case when they entered the room. Everything is well documented in the patient file, so whoever attended me was up-to-date with my particulars. As part of the documentation process, they do take before, during, and after pictures of any lesions.
Some of my lesions were treated with a chemotherapy topical cream, and three required surgery. My first visit to the McAllen location was for surgery as it has the best facilities for those procedures. My first surgery was done by Dr. Burningham who also consulted with me in Weslaco about the biopsy results and treatment options. My other two surgeries were done by Dr. Gonzalez-Molina and Dr Sandrock. All three were professional and did a great job. As I write this all three surgeries have healed up and I'm doing well.
I appreciated the options offered for my treatment of the skin cancers. The staff did well working with my insurance.
This surgery center also offers the very specialized Mohs surgery by Dr. Rick Lin. I believe it's the only one in the RGV that doesm. Mohs surgery removes one microscopic layer at a time to ensure they only remove what has to be removed, and leave minimal scarring. This is essential for people with lesions on their face or sensitive areas. Since it is so time-consuming, requires specialized training and equipment, it is also quite expensive. I am grateful that option is available in the RGV, but equally grateful I did not need it.
During my initial exam, they found several additional spots on my arms that were precancerous and treated them with liquid nitrogen (freezing). This treatment is relatively inexpensive and quick. The treated spot usually blisters, then heals. I cannot even tell now where they did it, and the spots are gone.
I highly recommend Oasis Dermatology Group. In the RGV, with the fierce sun we have, everyone needs to get a check-up from time to time. This is the place. Don't wait as long as I did. Make an appointment and get checked out.
