Cover Feature – July 2009
The appearance of one’s skin can tell many tales — age, health and the effects of prolonged sun exposure. No one can completely escape the signs of aging. And, unfortunately, diligence in the prevention of skin cancer is not always a top priority. But with the help of a qualified dermatologist, a vibrant complexion and healthy skin is well within reach.
Ideally located in a spacious twostory facility, Central Florida Dermatology Associates first opened its doors in 2000. Under the leadership of Kathleen W. Judge, M.D., the practice welcomes patients from babies to seniors.
Dr. Judge earned her medical degree from Louisiana State University and subsequently became board-certified in dermatology. Her desire to provide the highest standards of comprehensive dermatological care with efficiency and compassion has resulted in a thriving practice that boasts more than 60,000 patients.
From Diaper Rash to Age Spots
“What I envision for the practice is one that cares for the whole family,” Dr. Judge said. “I see the baby when he has a rash; I see the child or adolescent with warts and acne; I see Mom when she starts noticing those fine lines, brown spots or dark circles; I see parents and grandparents for overall skin care, including cancer screenings, lesion removals and treatments. I literally see families.”
Also trained in pediatric dermatology, Dr. Judge is able to calm an anxious or fussy child. “We have a whole team that jumps into action to make sure the kids are distracted and feel at ease during a procedure.”
“What I envision for the practice is one that cares for the whole family,” Dr. Judge said. “I see the baby when he has a rash; I see the child or adolescent with warts and acne; I see Mom when she starts noticing those fine lines, brown spots or dark circles; I see parents and grandparents for overall skin care, including cancer screenings, lesion removals and treatments. I literally see families.”
Also trained in pediatric dermatology, Dr. Judge is able to calm an anxious or fussy child. “We have a whole team that jumps into action to make sure the kids are distracted and feel at ease during a procedure.”
Preventive & Proactive
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. Dr. Judge preaches the importance of preventive measures to guard against skin cancer and states that everyone, especially Floridians, should have a full body check annually. Those with a history of cancer or precancerous lesions need to be checked more often. Patients may be concerned about a particular spot that turns out to be harmless. However, a deadly lesion may be lurking elsewhere that only a trained eye can detect. Dr. Judge routinely performs biopsies and surgical procedures to remove malignant skin cells. Dermatological conditions like acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, rashes, warts, uneven pigmentation and spider veins can be successfully treated by Dr. Judge and her staff.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. Dr. Judge preaches the importance of preventive measures to guard against skin cancer and states that everyone, especially Floridians, should have a full body check annually. Those with a history of cancer or precancerous lesions need to be checked more often. Patients may be concerned about a particular spot that turns out to be harmless. However, a deadly lesion may be lurking elsewhere that only a trained eye can detect. Dr. Judge routinely performs biopsies and surgical procedures to remove malignant skin cells. Dermatological conditions like acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, rashes, warts, uneven pigmentation and spider veins can be successfully treated by Dr. Judge and her staff.
Optimal Patient Care
Dr. Judge has assembled a staff of medical professionals who all share her commitment to optimal patient care. The two physician assistants, Alexandra Shigo and Caridad Lopez, received intensive dermatological training from Dr. Judge before seeing patients on their own. Dr. Judge requires all medical staff to shadow her for a number of months to ensure they are able to provide the high quality of care both she and her patients expect.
Dr. Judge has assembled a staff of medical professionals who all share her commitment to optimal patient care. The two physician assistants, Alexandra Shigo and Caridad Lopez, received intensive dermatological training from Dr. Judge before seeing patients on their own. Dr. Judge requires all medical staff to shadow her for a number of months to ensure they are able to provide the high quality of care both she and her patients expect.
Aging Gracefully
As time marches on, the effects of aging become more evident, especially on the skin. “I wanted to add a line of cosmetic procedures to our practice,” Dr. Judge said. “As a female dermatologist, I understand the issues women face and their desire to have the best looking skin possible.”
Complementing its medical and surgical dermatology care, the practice offers laser treatments, Thermage, chemical peels, Botox Cosmetic, fillers such as Juvéderm and Restylane, and a number of other services designed to address specific problem areas.
Before undergoing any cosmetic procedure or skin-care regimen, each patient receives an in-depth evaluation using the VISIA Complexion Analysis System. This leading-edge technology is able to detect skin damage using both normal and ultraviolet light modes. Displayed on a computer screen, Dr. Judge, her staff and patients are able to see surface and subsurface skin imperfections that might not be visible to the naked eye. Based on the results, a personalized treatment plan is formulated to address issues such as wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, brown spots and sun damage. As treatments progress, subsequent VISIA analyses are initiated to track improvement.
Committed to providing her patients with state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Judge added a revolutionary fractional CO2 laser to her practice. “When I got this laser, I thought I would use it primarily for wrinkles, resurfacing and sun damage,” Dr. Judge said. “But I am finding that I use it almost as much for acne scars.” Other lasers can address skin problems, such as birthmarks, freckles and broken blood vessels.
Central Florida Dermatology Associates’ interactive Web site gives detailed information on what conditions the lasers treat. Dr. Judge has found that more than just women are interested in healthy-looking skin. “We have a number of men who come in for cosmetic treatments.”
Safety Takes Priority
“I think it is very important for people to seek out a board-certified dermatologist when having any treatment or procedure involving the skin,” Dr. Judge said. “Dermatologists have extensive training and practical experience,” added Dr. Judge, who understands the structure and function of the skin on a molecular level, as well as what treatments and products are most effective.
As time marches on, the effects of aging become more evident, especially on the skin. “I wanted to add a line of cosmetic procedures to our practice,” Dr. Judge said. “As a female dermatologist, I understand the issues women face and their desire to have the best looking skin possible.”
Complementing its medical and surgical dermatology care, the practice offers laser treatments, Thermage, chemical peels, Botox Cosmetic, fillers such as Juvéderm and Restylane, and a number of other services designed to address specific problem areas.
Before undergoing any cosmetic procedure or skin-care regimen, each patient receives an in-depth evaluation using the VISIA Complexion Analysis System. This leading-edge technology is able to detect skin damage using both normal and ultraviolet light modes. Displayed on a computer screen, Dr. Judge, her staff and patients are able to see surface and subsurface skin imperfections that might not be visible to the naked eye. Based on the results, a personalized treatment plan is formulated to address issues such as wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, brown spots and sun damage. As treatments progress, subsequent VISIA analyses are initiated to track improvement.
Committed to providing her patients with state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Judge added a revolutionary fractional CO2 laser to her practice. “When I got this laser, I thought I would use it primarily for wrinkles, resurfacing and sun damage,” Dr. Judge said. “But I am finding that I use it almost as much for acne scars.” Other lasers can address skin problems, such as birthmarks, freckles and broken blood vessels.
Central Florida Dermatology Associates’ interactive Web site gives detailed information on what conditions the lasers treat. Dr. Judge has found that more than just women are interested in healthy-looking skin. “We have a number of men who come in for cosmetic treatments.”
Safety Takes Priority
“I think it is very important for people to seek out a board-certified dermatologist when having any treatment or procedure involving the skin,” Dr. Judge said. “Dermatologists have extensive training and practical experience,” added Dr. Judge, who understands the structure and function of the skin on a molecular level, as well as what treatments and products are most effective.
Relax & Rejuvenate
Some people are blessed with a beautiful complexion that requires little work to maintain. But no matter what condition skin is in, everyone likes to be pampered. The VitaliaMed Spa is located on the second floor of Central Florida Dermatology Associates’ stand-alone facility. As soon as clients ascend the stairs to the spa, the subdued lighting, pleasant fragrance of botanicals, and beautiful surroundings create a calming, tranquil atmosphere.
VitaliaMed Spa offers various treatments designed to refresh and rejuvenate the skin. Certified aesthetician Christy Giovannini performs spa treatments, including signature facials that target specific problems, therapeutic eye treatments designed for the delicate skin of the eye area, superficial chemical peels and body treatments, backclarifying treatments, and ClearLight treatments for acne. Since the spa is located in the same facility as the medical office, patients and staff have easy access to Dr. Judge for consultations.
Some people are blessed with a beautiful complexion that requires little work to maintain. But no matter what condition skin is in, everyone likes to be pampered. The VitaliaMed Spa is located on the second floor of Central Florida Dermatology Associates’ stand-alone facility. As soon as clients ascend the stairs to the spa, the subdued lighting, pleasant fragrance of botanicals, and beautiful surroundings create a calming, tranquil atmosphere.
VitaliaMed Spa offers various treatments designed to refresh and rejuvenate the skin. Certified aesthetician Christy Giovannini performs spa treatments, including signature facials that target specific problems, therapeutic eye treatments designed for the delicate skin of the eye area, superficial chemical peels and body treatments, backclarifying treatments, and ClearLight treatments for acne. Since the spa is located in the same facility as the medical office, patients and staff have easy access to Dr. Judge for consultations.
Beautiful Skin — Naturally
Walk into any dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon’s office and, chances are, an array of skin-care products are prominently displayed. The cosmeceutical industry is saturated with gels, creams and cleansers claiming to fix any skin issue. Based on requests from patients and her own desire to offer a line of skin-care products, Dr. Judge began the search for suitable products. She soon realized that many lines were either financially out of reach for most people or contained ingredients she believed were ineffective.
After four years of research, she discovered a line that uses natural botanical extracts with proven therapeutic results. She worked with the company to develop VitaliaDerma, a line she knew would benefit the many needs of her patients. In addition to the individual products suited for all types of skin, she created signature kits for acne, rosacea and mature skin. Ivani Alves, C.M.A., has worked with Dr. Judge since August 2000 and serves as the spa’s cosmetic coordinator. After an initial consultation, she is able to develop a customized home skin-care routine for each patient.
Walk into any dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon’s office and, chances are, an array of skin-care products are prominently displayed. The cosmeceutical industry is saturated with gels, creams and cleansers claiming to fix any skin issue. Based on requests from patients and her own desire to offer a line of skin-care products, Dr. Judge began the search for suitable products. She soon realized that many lines were either financially out of reach for most people or contained ingredients she believed were ineffective.
After four years of research, she discovered a line that uses natural botanical extracts with proven therapeutic results. She worked with the company to develop VitaliaDerma, a line she knew would benefit the many needs of her patients. In addition to the individual products suited for all types of skin, she created signature kits for acne, rosacea and mature skin. Ivani Alves, C.M.A., has worked with Dr. Judge since August 2000 and serves as the spa’s cosmetic coordinator. After an initial consultation, she is able to develop a customized home skin-care routine for each patient.
On a Personal Note
Dr. Judge resides in Keene’s Pointe. She enjoys sewing, painting and, on occasion, a round of golf with her husband (her handicap is 24). “Golf is not a game for perfectionists,” explains Dr. Judge. Many of her patients may be surprised that Dr. Judge plays the electric bass guitar in a local band that performs at family parties. The eclectic interests and hobbies enjoyed by Dr. Judge serve to enhance her practice, as she brings an artistic eye to cosmetic procedures and possesses an approachable demeanor her patients appreciate.
Join Dr. Judge at the Southern Women’s Show at the Orange County Convention Center October 8-11 for a free skin cancer screening.
Dr. Judge resides in Keene’s Pointe. She enjoys sewing, painting and, on occasion, a round of golf with her husband (her handicap is 24). “Golf is not a game for perfectionists,” explains Dr. Judge. Many of her patients may be surprised that Dr. Judge plays the electric bass guitar in a local band that performs at family parties. The eclectic interests and hobbies enjoyed by Dr. Judge serve to enhance her practice, as she brings an artistic eye to cosmetic procedures and possesses an approachable demeanor her patients appreciate.
Join Dr. Judge at the Southern Women’s Show at the Orange County Convention Center October 8-11 for a free skin cancer screening.
Central Florida Dermatology
Associates is located at
700 E. Michigan St. in Orlando.
For more information, call 407-481-2620
or visit www.centralfloridaderm.com