Next-level dermatology has arrived
By Patricia Nugent
Merriam-Webster defines “optimum” as “most conducive to a favorable outcome; best.”
The newly opened Optima Dermatology, led by Dr. Sara Lohser, promises to set the new standard of care in dermatology.
The practice’s mission statement communicates its path to “revolutionizing” skin care by creating greater access to expert care and delivering an unparalleled patient experience.
Dr. Lohser says she looks forward to serving everyone in the community—people of all ages and stages of life, from newborns to seniors—facing skin conditions. She’s currently seeing patients within a medical building off Route 306, while awaiting completion of a permanent, state-of-the-art, 6,000-square-foot facility to open just down the road in early 2022.
“Our patient population has already been pleasantly surprised by how quickly we can get them in for appointments and how personalized our everyday experience is. They say we are a breath of fresh air,” says Dr. Lohser.
As a part of a regional group of industry-leading dermatologists, she has the opportunity to collaborate with other top specialists.
“It’s advantageous to be a part of a larger group to share best practices with other specialized physicians at other locations,” she says. “Optima also operates a separate clinical research center that helps us stay at the forefront of breakthrough advancements.”
Healing all Types of Skin Conditions
Some of the most common skin conditions that Dr. Lohser treats include acne, warts, rosacea and rashes, as well as eczema and psoriasis.
“Preventive skin checks are also an integral part of this practice,” she says.
If something is detected, she can perform removals of melanoma, non-melanoma, skin cancer, atypical moles, cysts, and more. Using blue light, or photodynamic therapy, she can effectively treat sun damage and prevent skin cancer.
The Importance of Preventive Skin Checks
One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Prevention is the key to avoiding and beating this cancer. The estimated five-year survival rate for patients whose melanoma is detected early is 99%.
“While the guidelines are fluid depending on the patient’s risk factors and family history, in general I recommend everyone see their dermatologist for a yearly skin check,” she says. “Children of parents who have had a melanoma should start skin checks early to get a good baseline exam. In addition to skin checks, my number one prevention tip is for people to make sunscreen a part of their daily routine.”
Minimally Invasive Cosmetic Procedures
Dr. Lohser also offers a range of anti-aging skin and facial rejuvenation services to help patients look younger and more radiant.
“I love seeing the impact cosmetic services have on the lives of my patients,” she says. “Using injectables such as Botox and Dysport to smooth wrinkles, and fillers to lift and reshape, it is my goal to help my patients feel more confident in their own skin.”
As soon as they move into the permanent facility, she will offer a more expanded menu of treatments, such as CoolSculpting, and the popular and effective BBL and HALO laser treatments.”
Meet Dr. Sara Lohser
Since 2008, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sara Lohser has been providing patients in the Cleveland area with personalized, comprehensive care.
“I’m thrilled to be part of Optima Dermatology here in Lake County,” she says. “As a young child, I spent much of my time in a dermatologist’s office addressing a variety of aggravating skin conditions, so I can appreciate from firsthand experience what patients are going through.”
Throughout her educational and career path, which includes a medical degree from Case Western Reserve University and residency at the Cleveland Clinic’s Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Institute, Dr. Lohser has enjoyed taking on leadership roles.
During her residency, she was the president and treasurer of the House Staff Association at the Cleveland Clinic, and post-residency she served as board member and treasurer, and currently as secretary, of the Cleveland Dermatological Society.
“The happiness and wellbeing of my patients is extremely important to me,” she says. “At Optima Dermatology, our guiding principle is to treat every patient as we would want our friends and family to be treated, and I fully believe in and practice that intention every day. I have an awesome team, supported by exceptional people and resources that allow me to focus on spending more time with my patients and providing great care.”
Optima Dermatology is located at 7326 Industrial Park Boulevard, Mentor. Hours for appointments are Monday and Tuesday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Most insurance plans are accepted. The practice serves patients throughout Lake and Cuyahoga counties. Call 440-496-6133 to schedule your appointment or visit OptimaDermatology.com for more information.