During the pandemic, there has been an influx of folks who have moved to the Sunshine State and are now calling Central Florida home. And while there are undoubtedly many things about this area they find alluring, the favorable weather conditions are certainly at the top of the list.

But as they have eagerly taken advantage of the warm climate, many aren’t accustomed to the year-round abundant sunshine and the toll all that time soaking up the rays can take on your skin. And because the skin is the largest organ in the body, it’s crucial to know how to correctly care for it or risk potentially dangerous outcomes. So as kids begin trading in their pool floats for pencils and heading back to school, now is the perfect time for the whole family to get an annual skin examination.

Thankfully, Central Florida is blessed with a dermatology practice committed to offering experienced providers, cutting-edge treatment and the latest technologies. For over three decades, Associates in Dermatology has been synonymous with high quality dermatological care in the local community. As the president and medical director of the practice, Dr. Steppie has built a strong reputation thanks to his unrivaled passion for serving the community through clinical, general and cosmetic dermatology.

A board-certified physician who has completed residencies in dermatology and dermatologic surgery, Dr. Steppie is renowned for his years of service in the field and is an accomplished surgeon with vast experience in the highly specialized treatment known as Mohs surgery, which is used for the removal of skin cancer tumors. Thanks to his extensive training and expertise, Dr. Steppie has been able to continually remain at the forefront of skincare services.

As the leader of the award-winning practice, Dr. Steppie’s commitment to the community goes well beyond routine dermatological care. “I feel my most important goal is to help patients avoid the effects of overexposure to the sun, premalignant growths and skin cancer,” he says. “I take tremendous pride in being able to not only meet my client’s expectations, but exceed them with highly personalized care that addresses their specific needs rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. What’s more, the array of cutting-edge tools at our disposal allows us to better care for our patients and oftentimes produce favorable outcomes.”

Throughout his career, Dr. Steppie’s highly influential work and unparalleled effort to educate patients about life-saving dermatologic solutions has earned him a mantle full of prestigious awards and recognitions, including being named a Top Physician by Orlando Family Magazine for several years running. He is also one of the elite few dermatologists in the country who are members of the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Amonette Circle.

It’s no wonder then why so many area residents entrust Dr. Steppie and Associates of Dermatology, where the highly skilled team of providers focus their efforts on proper diagnosis and treatment, with their skin care needs. And the unrivaled level of care is never too far away thanks to the practice’s 16 convenient area locations, including in Celebration, Clermont, Dr. Phillips and Ocoee. This allows patients to visit any number of centers that are close to home, work or otherwise.

“Being accessible to our patients is a hallmark of the practice and it gives them comfort to know that they don’t have to travel great lengths to receive the expert care they are accustomed to,” says Dr. Steppie.

With that in mind, the first line of defense starts with the patient. The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Big See campaign offers advice on what to be on the lookout for when spotting irregularities. The three things to watch for are newly formed moles, spots that have changed in appearance or unusual spots that continuously itch, hurt, crust or bleed for more than three weeks.

Applying sunscreen daily, wearing wide-brim hats and sunglasses with UV protection are some of the easiest ways to protect yourself from harmful sun exposure. Having that self-awareness can go a long way to preventing skin cancer from forming, but ultimately your best chance for a proper diagnosis and individualized treatment plan would be to schedule an appointment with a professional.

And when the need arises to seek professional guidance, Associates in Dermatology has a team of specialists ready to assist. You can expect to find patient-focused care from a knowledgeable and friendly staff in a welcoming setting. It’s all part of the foundation that was established back in 1989 when the first clinic was opened. And in these present times, the man behind Greater Orlando’s leading dermatology practice remains more committed than ever.

“I’m honored that so many patients have entrusted Associates in Dermatology with their care. To be able to make that sort of impact and lasting connection is not something I take for granted and it’s certainly one of the most rewarding aspects of my profession,” Dr. Steppie says.

Associates in Dermatology

17 locations in Central Florida including:

Celebration | Clermont | Dr. Phillips | Hunter’s Creek | Ocoee

(800) 827-7546

DermOrlando.com