Standardize Before-and-After Photography

Quality Photos Can Increase Satisfaction 

Consistent photography is an underappreciated clinical tool. Take photos in the same room, with the same lighting and angle, using the same device. Avoid flash unless necessary. This not only provides legal documentation but powerfully reinforces therapeutic success. Patients often forget their baseline appearance—showing a side-by-side comparison at follow up can rekindle motivation and adherence. Many dermatologists report that photographic documentation increases satisfaction more effectively than any marketing strategy. 

Ronald Vender, MD, FRCPC | Hamilton, Ontario, Canada 

How Is It Going? 

Try to be positive when interacting with your patients. The other day, after I asked a patient how they were doing, they asked me the same. I replied, “Great, life is beautiful.” They were pleasantly surprised and commented that this was the most positive and nicest thing they had heard in a while, and that usually people are complaining about the weather, or their knee, or something else. So, the next time your patient asks you how it is going, realize that they might appreciate some positive vibes. 

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC | Toronto, Ontario, Canada 

Reducing PRP Injection Pain 

Platelet-rich plasma injected into the scalp is much more comfortable if you inject while chasing an ice pack. I even try to get my needle right up under the edge and press on the ice pack. 

Jo Herzog, MD | Vestavia Hills, AL

Laser for Hidradenitis Suppurativa 

Laser hair removal is an excellent treatment that can sometimes lead to remission for patients with mild-to-moderate hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). We offer laser hair removal at 50% off for our patients with HS, with the goal of preventing recurrence, not removal of all hair. This can be done even in areas that are not typically hair bearing and a double pulse can be used over inflamed nodules. 

Susan Poelman, MD, FRCPC | Calgary, Alberta, Canada