General dermatology patients are seen by referral from your family doctor or from another specialist. Once we have received your referral, our office will either contact you directly or send an appointment notification to your referring doctor. These appointments are covered under OHIP.

Click Here To Download Our Referral Forms

Conditions

We treat multiple different skin conditions including precancerous lesions (actinic keratosis), non-melanoma skin cancer, melanoma, acne, rosacea, psoriasis and eczema (atopic dermatitis). 

Common dermatology conditions include:

Actinic Keratosis

Actinic Keratoses are small scaly bumps on parts of the skin that have been exposed to the sun over many years. They are precancerous, and if left untreated, they may turn into a skin cancer (see Squamous Cell Carcinoma). 


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Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It is the least dangerous of the skin cancers but must be treated.



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Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It can grow rapidly and rarely spread to other organs so it must be treated promptly.


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Treatments

We tailor treatments to the individual based on the condition, patient preferences and cost considerations. Some of the treatments we offer include topical medications (creams), injections into the affected area and systemic medications (pills or injections). Common procedures done in-clinic include cryotherapy, biopsy and surgical removal of skin cancers.

Treatments and procedures include:

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy refers to treatment with liquid nitrogen. Some people call it “freezing” or “zapping”. It is quick and effective for the treatment of precancerous spots. The treated areas get red and swollen and can sometimes blister. They heal with a scab that will flake off in 7-10 days. No picking!!

Biopsy

Biopsies are performed when we are trying to make a diagnosis of a skin lesion or rash. Biopsies can be done with or without stitches. The area will be frozen with local anaesthetic (needle poke) but we tell people that’s the only bit that hurts a little. There will be a small scar in the biopsy site and there is a small risk of bleeding or infection after the procedure. Stitches will need to be taken out in 7 days (face) or 14 days (body). We like to make sure everyone knows the results of their biopsy and usually arrange a follow-up appointment to discuss results.

FAQs

Learn more about how to prepare for your upcoming appointment and read some frequently asked questions and answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
    What Is a “Board-Certified” Dermatologist?

        When you visit a board-certified dermatologist, the physician you are seeing is qualified as a specialist in dermatology. Part of this training is a 5-year residency program after completion of medical school. Following that, specialists must complete their Royal College examinations, referred to colloquially as “boards”. Dermatologists are true experts in diseases of the skin.

    How Do I Get an Appointment?

        Appointments for general and medical dermatology are by referral only. If you have a skin condition, first see your family doctor or health care provider, who can refer you to Lovegrove Dermatology.

    Why Did Another Patient Get an Appt. Before Me?

        We look at all incoming referrals and book appointments based on the urgency of the problem. While we try to see all issues in a timely manner, emergencies such as skin cancer are prioritized.

    Do I Have to Pay for This?

        If you have been referred by a physician for a general dermatology appointment, the initial visit and any follow-up visits are covered under OHIP. Most treatments are also covered by OHIP. Some treatments are considered “elective” (non-essential or cosmetic) and are not covered by OHIP. However, we would discuss any elective treatments and their cost during your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions
    How Long Will I Have to Wait at the Office?

        We tell patients they can expect to spend 1-2 hours at the office for their appointment. The length of individual appointments depends on how complex each person’s medical issue is. We try to run “on time”, however, patients with urgent or complex issues occasionally require more time than anticipated. We appreciate your patience when this occurs. We provide magazines in the waiting room as well as free Wi-Fi.

    What Should I Expect at My (First) Appointment?

        For your first visit, please come to the office 10 minutes ahead of your scheduled appointment. After you check in at reception, you will be asked to fill out a patient intake form with details of your current condition, personal medical history and family history. A consultation with Dr. Lovegrove generally lasts approximately 10-15 minutes. If a procedure is required (e.g. cryotherapy or biopsy), it will usually be performed during the same visit.

    What Should I Bring to My Appointment?

        • Your valid OHIP card
        • A list of your current medications, including medications you have tried for your skin condition
        • Any biopsy results or investigations related to your skin condition
        • If you have specialized wound dressings, we ask that you bring extra supplies to re-dress your wound as we have very limited supplies in the office

    What Happens If I Miss My Appointment?

        We ask for a cancellation notice 24 hours in advance of your appointment should you be unable to attend. A no-show fee will be charged if you fail to cancel 24 hours in advance.