A Dermatologist Steeped in Immunology,
Different Treatment Perspectives.
“For complex skin conditions, you may miss the true cause of a condition by just focusing on the skin symptoms.”
The role of a dermatologist is not limited to skin aesthetics; it includes caring for all aspects of skin, encompassing scalp hair, body hair, and nails.
In this issue of MedPark Stories, Dr.Chontavat Suvanpiyasiri, M.D. (Dr.Judd), a dermatologist specializing in skin immunology and head of the Dermatology and Aesthetic Clinic at MedPark Hospital reveals fascinating stories of his life, starting from a path to a fellowship in immunology to becoming an experienced teaching faculty in immunodermatology.
A dermatologist, an immunology teaching faculty, cum skin aesthetics doctor.
Dr.Chontavat's journey towards becoming a dermatologist started circuitously with his interest in immunology, while the timing of his life events also played a part.
“The benefit of specializing in immunology was that I could pursue a residency in various disciplines. At the time, my boss penned a letter of recommendation for me to be a resident at the Institute of Dermatology, Thailand. That dovetailed with what I had in mind as many skin diseases have immunological underpinning, and I also had a chance to work with specialists from other departments.”
Noticing a trophy in Dr.Chontavat's office with his emblazoned name, we asked him the story behind it and received quite an intriguing answer.
“I was awarded the trophy for being a teaching faculty in skin aesthetic procedures. However, that role is a tiny part of my life. Out of 100 percent, I am an immunodermatologist for 50 percent, a teaching faculty in immunology for 30 percent, and for the remaining 20 percent, I am a teaching faculty in aesthetic procedures.”
A dermatologist specialized in immunology is well-prepared to diagnose intricate skin conditions.
Dr.Judd also highlighted the importance and benefits of being a dermatologist with a grounding in immunology. He related a recent patient who came to see him with bruises on the legs. A cursory glance may conclude it is a skin condition with rashes. However, a broader view may uncover the authentic cause.
“Profound understanding of immunology provides us with different and broader perspectives and approaches for treatment. Long story short, the true condition the patient had was vasculitis involving the skin, the intestine, and the kidney. This patient shows us that concentrating solely on skin symptoms and disregarding others may not uncover the actual root of the illness.”
Studying immunodermatology requires a certain level of passion. Dr.Judd, a new breed of dermatologist who excels in teaching, having been invited to contribute chapters to medical textbooks, showcased his success.
“One thing that I am proud of is my contribution to medical textbooks on skin diseases. I also had a chance to write chapters about immunology in another. Among the contributors to the two textbooks, I was one of a few new-generation dermatologists. I am honored and grateful that the senior teaching faculties recognized me.”
Exosome and bio stimulator: Trends prompting dermatologists to delve deeper into immunology.
Being a teaching faculty in aesthetic procedures allows Dr.Chontavat exposure to ever-evolving aesthetic trends, including the exosomes, which is something even Dr. Chontavat did not expect would come to pass.
“I have known exosome from my time pursuing a Ph.D. in immunology and never thought it would corner a role in aesthetics or become popular. Recently, I was invited to speak on biostimulators entitled "When Immunology Meets Aesthetics." These are two parallels I never thought would ever converge.”
Dermatologists specializing in aesthetic dermatology need to broaden their knowledge of immunology, given that modern aesthetic trends like biostimulators require applications of immunology principles.
A new role as head of MedPark Hospital's Dermatology and Aesthetic Clinic.
The reason Dr.Chontavat joined MedPark Hospital was he was seeking new challenges. He searched for a hospital that allowed him leeway to do what he intended. The hospital's mission to tackle complex diseases resonates with him.
“I feel that the hospital answers all my needs. MedPark is receptive, promising, and capable of actualizing concepts rapidly. I am no longer young; I cannot wait for something for too long. In addition to visionary executives, the fact that the hospital makes substantial efforts to fulfill requirements ensures that patients will receive the full benefits. That is a good sign and the most important thing, in my opinion.”
A former piano teacher, film connoisseur, and a conqueror of office syndrome through yoga.
Apart from listening to music and watching movies, Dr.Judd is captivated by playing the piano. In high school, he taught piano at a music academy. While he does not play as frequently now, playing the piano continues to add aesthetic pleasure to his life. Yoga is another hobby that Dr.Judd is deeply committed to and spends a significant amount of time on.
“I have been practicing yoga for three years and loving it, but it is also very challenging. Normally, I am quite confident that I am a quick learner, but yoga is the thing that one cannot rush posthaste. Our muscles take time to stretch and become flexible. Certain yoga positions take up to a year to master.”
“I admit I was so discouraged that I almost quit during the first year. However, I found that my backaches and pain, which are symptoms of office syndrome, magically disappeared for good. I usually need a massage once a week, but now I don't have to. Although I endure agony every time I practice yoga, I am always happy because it is genuinely salubrious.”
Despite being serious at work, Dr.Judd leads a simple life after work hours, with one constant: his unwavering dedication to what he cherishes.
