When you’re looking for a dermatologist, you don’t just want a name on a website-you want to know who’s actually going to be examining your skin, listening to your concerns, and creating a plan that works for you. At Dermatology Associates of Virginia, the team isn’t just a list of credentials. These are doctors who’ve spent years training, treating real patients, and staying up to date with the latest in skin health. If you’re considering a visit, here’s who you’ll likely be seeing.
Meet the Core Dermatology Team
The practice is led by five board-certified dermatologists, each with their own areas of expertise. Dr. Lisa Chen specializes in medical dermatology, focusing on eczema, psoriasis, and autoimmune skin conditions. She’s published research on topical treatments for chronic rashes and has trained residents at Virginia Commonwealth University. If you’ve been struggling with a skin flare-up that won’t go away, she’s the one who’ll dig into the root cause.
Dr. Marcus Reed is the go-to for skin cancer detection and surgical removal. He performs over 1,200 Mohs surgeries a year-the gold standard for removing basal and squamous cell carcinomas with the highest cure rates. His precision and attention to tissue margins mean less scarring and better cosmetic outcomes. Patients often come to him after a biopsy from another provider came back positive.
Dr. Aisha Patel focuses on cosmetic dermatology. She uses FDA-approved injectables like Botox and dermal fillers, but she’s also known for her conservative approach. She doesn’t push treatments. Instead, she maps out a patient’s goals and builds a plan around what’s safe, effective, and sustainable. Many of her patients have been coming for over a decade.
Dr. James O’Connor handles pediatric dermatology. He sees children from newborns to teens with conditions like infantile hemangiomas, severe acne, and genetic skin disorders. He’s trained in working with anxious kids and parents who are overwhelmed. His office has a play area, calming lighting, and a no-pressure policy. If your child has a persistent rash or unusual mole, he’s the specialist you want.
Dr. Evelyn Torres is the practice’s expert in hair and nail disorders. She treats alopecia, fungal nail infections, and scarring conditions that affect the scalp. She’s also trained in scalp biopsies and laser therapies for hair loss. Many patients come to her after trying over-the-counter products for years with no results.
What Makes Them Different?
These doctors aren’t just practicing in a clinic-they’re active in the broader dermatology community. All five are members of the American Academy of Dermatology. Three of them serve on state medical boards that review licensing and ethics. Two have taught at Virginia’s medical schools in the last five years.
They don’t outsource their diagnostics. Every patient gets a full skin exam done by the doctor, not a nurse or technician. If you need a biopsy, it’s performed by the same provider who saw you. No third-party labs handle your tissue without their direct oversight.
The practice uses a digital dermatology platform that lets them track changes in moles over time. If you’ve had a mole checked before, they can pull up your exact photos from years ago and compare them side-by-side. This isn’t just for cancer screening-it helps track the progress of eczema, rosacea, or even how your skin responds to a new skincare routine.
Support Staff You’ll Work With
While the doctors lead your care, you’ll also interact with a skilled team of nurse practitioners and physician assistants. They’re all licensed and work under the supervision of the dermatologists. Many handle routine follow-ups, acne treatment plans, and prescription refills. If you’re coming in for a simple issue like a new rash or a refill on your topical medication, you might be seen by one of them first.
The aesthetic nurses are trained in laser procedures, chemical peels, and microneedling. They work closely with Dr. Patel to customize treatments based on your skin type and goals. They don’t use one-size-fits-all protocols. A treatment that works for someone with oily skin won’t be the same as one for someone with sensitive, post-menopausal skin.
Where They Practice
Dermatology Associates of Virginia has five locations across the state: Richmond, Charlottesville, Alexandria, Roanoke, and Williamsburg. Each location has the same team of doctors, but not all providers are at every office. Dr. Chen is primarily in Richmond and Alexandria. Dr. Reed splits his time between Charlottesville and Roanoke. Dr. Patel is in Richmond and Alexandria. Dr. O’Connor is based in Williamsburg and Richmond. Dr. Torres is in all five locations but spends more time in Roanoke and Charlottesville.
If you’re booking an appointment, the website lets you filter by provider. You can also call and ask which doctors are available at your preferred location. There’s no rush to see a specific doctor unless you have a complex case-most routine visits can be handled by any provider on the team.
What to Expect on Your First Visit
Your first appointment usually lasts 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll be asked to fill out a medical history form, including medications, allergies, and family history of skin cancer. The doctor will examine your skin from head to toe, including your scalp, nails, and between your toes. They’ll take photos of any suspicious spots and explain what they’re looking for.
They don’t push procedures on your first visit. If they find something concerning, they’ll explain it clearly, show you the image, and give you time to decide. No pressure. No upselling. You’ll leave with a written plan-whether that’s a prescription, a follow-up in three months, or a referral to another specialist.
How to Choose the Right Doctor for You
Not every patient needs the same kind of dermatologist. Here’s a quick guide:
- If you have chronic rashes, eczema, or psoriasis → Dr. Lisa Chen
- If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer or have a suspicious mole → Dr. Marcus Reed
- If you want non-surgical cosmetic improvements (Botox, fillers, peels) → Dr. Aisha Patel
- If your child has a skin condition → Dr. James O’Connor
- If you’re losing hair or have nail issues → Dr. Evelyn Torres
If you’re unsure, start with any provider. They’ll assess your needs and refer you to the right specialist if needed. Most patients end up seeing more than one doctor over time as their skin concerns change.
Why Trust This Team?
Dermatology Associates of Virginia has been serving the state since 1998. They’ve treated over 250,000 patients. Their patient satisfaction rate is 97%, according to independent reviews collected by Healthgrades. They’ve never had a malpractice settlement in the last 15 years.
They’re not a corporate chain. The doctors own the practice. That means decisions are made based on patient care-not profit targets. You won’t be rushed through a 10-minute visit. You won’t be handed a script for a drug you’ve never heard of without an explanation. You’ll be treated like someone whose skin matters.
Do the doctors at Dermatology Associates of Virginia accept my insurance?
Yes. The practice accepts most major insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. They verify your coverage before your appointment. If you’re unsure, call their office with your insurance details-they’ll check for you.
Can I request a specific doctor for my appointment?
Absolutely. When you book online or over the phone, you can select your preferred provider. If they’re not available at your preferred location or time, the scheduler will offer alternatives. Most patients who have a long-term skin condition prefer to see the same doctor for continuity of care.
How long is the wait time for an appointment?
For new patients with non-urgent concerns, the wait is usually 2 to 3 weeks. If you have a suspicious mole, rapid-onset rash, or suspected skin cancer, they can often see you within 3 to 5 days. Urgent cases are prioritized.
Do they offer telehealth visits?
Yes, for follow-ups and minor issues like acne adjustments, prescription refills, or reviewing biopsy results. But skin cancer screenings, full-body exams, and first-time visits require an in-person appointment. Telehealth can’t replace a physical exam when it comes to detecting early skin cancer.
Are the dermatologists at this practice involved in research?
Yes. Several of the doctors participate in clinical trials for new acne treatments, psoriasis medications, and skin cancer prevention tools. They’re often the first in Virginia to offer FDA-approved therapies to patients. If you’re interested in joining a trial, ask during your visit-they’ll explain the options and risks.
Next Steps
If you’re ready to make an appointment, go to their website and use the provider filter to find the right doctor for your needs. Bring your insurance card and a list of any medications or skincare products you’re using. Don’t wear makeup to your first visit-it can hide important signs. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. These doctors are there to help you understand your skin-not just treat it.
Hair Care
