Galen H. Fisher, MD

Dr. Fisher has treated me for skin cancer on several occasions - some requiring Mohs surgery. I have always been treated with respect by Dr. Fisher. He always explains any procedure that he is recommending and always examines any area of concern that I bring to his attention. Some of his staff that work in the front have, at times, given me a 'cool' reception, but they have never been rude or impolite. I highly recommend him.

I'm 62, have pretty good, well-taken-care-of skin. However, I have a few minor thread veins on cheeks, around nose, and I don't like to wear concealer (I live in the very hot & humid SE coastal USA). Five years ago, I was referred by my dermatologist to a MD specializing in laser treatment. Had only one pulse dye V-beam treatment ($300), w/ little post-op swelling or bruising. Five days post-op, veins gone! Five years later, veins returned, as expected, as well as some new sites. This time, I was told I needed both V beam & YAG solid state laser ($600). Decided to go forward, as I still wanted the freedom of using little makeup. 24 hours post-op, I had minor swelling, but greater spot bruising than 1st time around. Not happy, but hopeful it would resolve. Now, 5 days later, swelling almost gone, but spot bruising very apparent, also some denting. Called dr. to advise. If these symptoms do not resolve, then I will be left w/ skin looking WAY worse than before. Note that the dr. wanted to schedule a 2nd followup treatment, but I declined, as I wanted to see results. I will follow up this review in the next 2 weeks. I sure hope that I haven't just paid $600 for a treatment that has permanently damaged my skin!

to treat enlarged blood vessels around the mouth. 

Had 2 rounds of laser done, each 8 weeks apart.  Neither treatment did anything to address concerns.  The laser was used around the area but not directly on the areas of concern.  

 

Currently getting IPL treatments that are successfully working to reduce / remove the blood vessels.

I can't say I enjoyed the 4 trips to the chair that were required. But that's what it took to get all the cancer out, and when I left, I felt that Dr. Fisher and treated me like he cared about my health. The nurses were so nice, even when I returned and had stitches removed. That's usually when the ham-handed intern pulls on the wrong one, or pokes at me until it hurts. But this young woman was both smiling, and gentle. I left, healed up, and feel much better.
Unfortunately I have more visits to remove other cancers around my face, but I've been to lots of less talented doctors, so I'm staying with Dr. Fisher.

Updated on 16 Sep 2013:
Yet another basal cell removal from the other side of my face, which is healing well and I'm confident is clear of any more bad-boy cancer cells. One more to go, still with this doctor, so by the end of Nov 2013 I'll be caught up with this round of those pesky basal cell carcinomas'

Updated on 15 Dec 2013:
Doing great, and following instructions to massage the scar area to reduce scar tissue under the skin has made a big difference. The numbness and occassional pain is mostly gone, so I look and feel normal now.