Many of us were eager for the chance to spend gather with family and friends around the holidays given these trying times. But now that the New Year has arrived and resolutions are being made, many are switching their focus to their overall health and wellbeing. For those looking for a fresh start in 2022, a visit with a trusted skin care specialist should be on your checklist.

In Central Florida, a high level of expert care can be found close by. Associates of Dermatology, under the guidance of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michael Steppie was established more than 30 years ago and has grown to 17 locations, including Celebration, Dr. Phillips, Hunter’s Creek and Ocoee. 

Dr. Steppie is renowned for his years of service in the field and is a skilled 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 experience, he has been able to keep his practice at the forefront of skin care services. Besides being a widely recognized leader in skin cancer treatment, Associates in Dermatology provides an array of dermatological services, including treatment of common conditions such as allergic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, eczema and disease of the hair and nails. Many rejuvenating cosmetic procedures ranging from Botox to dermal fillers are also offered in addition to chemical peels, electrocautery, acne treatments and more. 

“Thanks to our highly skilled providers, our Orlando dermatology practices have helped countless patients using a calculated approach to identify the problem and make sure treatment is individualized, rather than a one-size-fits-all diagnosis,” says Dr. Steppie. “By focusing on a healthy lifestyle and raising awareness and prevention, we achieve our most important goal delivering unmatched patient care. We go the extra mile to ensure our core values are being met while also progressing and advancing the convenience of care we provide.”

As a pioneer in skin cancer awareness, Dr. Steppie is widely respected in the dermatology field and has been a highly regarded member of the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Amonette Circle for more than a decade. And while collaborating alongside the Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute at Lake Nona, his breakthrough research on melanoma was published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. What’s more, he’s been recognized as a Top Physician by Orlando Family Magazine every year since 2017, an honor that makes him especially proud.

“To be recognized and appreciated year after year is truly special,” says Dr. Steppie. “It’s a direct reflection of the loyalty and love and loyalty our patients have for our dedicated team. We think of them as if they are extended members of the family and we value the relationships we are able to build with each and every one.”

During the pandemic, Associates in Dermatology has further cemented its reputation for providing superb care. Leading the way has been the implementation of telehealth services for high-risk patients and those who care for them. While the threat of COVID-19 led many to forego medical appointments out of fear of being exposed to the novel coronavirus. Organizations like the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and American Cancer Society have reported a 46% drop nationally in new cancer detection during the pandemic. That deeply worrisome statistic is evidence that patients need to focus more on their entire well-being, not just the virus.

“These trends with regard to undiagnosed cancers are disheartening,” Dr. Steppie says. “As we have entered into the New Year, I highly recommend returning to your regular full-body exams and skin checkups. We need to remember that skin cancer didn’t take a break during the pandemic and that those cancer screenings and treatments save lives.” With such patient-focused care and a proven track record dating back to the foundation established back in 1989, it’s no wonder why so many have repeatedly entrusted Associates in Dermatology with their skin care needs. And in these present times, the man behind Greater Orlando’s leading dermatology clinic remains more committed than ever and looks to create a legacy of health and wellness for Floridians, both now and well into the future.

“We see multiple generations of families, from the grandparent to the grandchild, and when you share with your loved ones the healthy lifestyle habits that you developed to ensure your good health, you are leaving behind a medical legacy that solidifies the importance of wellness for generations to come,” Dr. Steppie says.

And while Associates in Dermatology has been synonymous with high-quality dermatological care in the local community for more than 30 years, there are more exciting things on the horizon as the calendar flips to 2022.

“I am very much looking forward to be able to extend our convenience of care in 2022,” says Dr. Steppie. “By opening more local practices in the coming year, we will be able to better serve Central Florida, especially with more and more people deciding to call this area home.”

Ultimately, whether caring for a new patient or one who has been visiting the practice for many years, the most rewarding part of the profession for Dr. Steppie is knowing that the convenient and cutting-edge care that Associates in Dermatology provides is making a real difference. 

Our patients have remained loyal because they absolutely love the dedicated care they receive from our expert team of providers, several of whom have been with us for more than a decade and in some cases more than two,” he says. “That familiarity with one another allows us to pinpoint a patient’s issue and treat them properly. To know that we can make a real difference in someone’s life is overly satisfying and a thrilling feeling.”

Associates in Dermatology

Multiple locations in Central Florida including Celebration, Dr. Phillips, Hunter’s Creek, Ocoee and Winter Garden

(800) 827-7546 | DermOrlando.com