Psoriasis Treatment
Relief. Control. Restored Comfort.
Diseases of the skin can be itchy and uncomfortable, to say nothing of being damaging to your self-esteem. One of the most common skin conditions is called psoriasis. While there is no known cure for this chronic skin condition, several safe and effective treatments can make it completely manageable.
If you have any signs or symptoms of psoriasis, know that there are ways to keep them in check. At the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery, we offer psoriasis treatments to help patients throughout Appleton and Green Bay regain their self-confidence.
Psoriasis is a condition that is characterized by red, scaly, itchy patches on the skin. The areas most commonly affected by psoriasis include the knees, elbows, scalp, and trunk. Those with psoriasis often experience flare-ups. Symptoms will flare up for a few weeks or months, then go into remission for a while. In addition to being cyclical, psoriasis is also chronic. There is no way to completely cure it, although there are options to keep the symptoms under control.
Our dermatology providers can confirm your condition with a simple visual examination. They will carefully examine your skin, nails, and scalp for signs of psoriasis and ask questions about your symptoms and medical history.
While the causes of psoriasis are not clear, it is generally assumed to be an immune system condition that causes the skin to regenerate faster than normal. The rapid turnover of skin cells is what leads to the red, scaly areas. The underlying factors that lead to this immune malfunction are unknown but thought to be both genetic and environmental.
There are some potential triggers for psoriasis flare-ups, which can include:
The symptoms of psoriasis can vary by patient, but generally include:
If you have never been treated for psoriasis, it is only natural to have some questions. During your initial appointment, you can expect your dermatology provider to conduct a visual examination of your flare-up areas and ask you some questions about your medical history. From there, you will have a chance to discuss treatment options and ask any questions you may have. Depending on your personalized care plan, we can usually begin treatment at this initial appointment.
Your dermatology provider may recommend different types of psoriasis treatments, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
Some of the primary means of treating psoriasis include:
Integrated Care: Your Provider continually adjusts your treatment plan and monitors for related issues, such as psoriatic arthritis, ensuring holistic care.
Psoriasis Treatment can manage outbreaks across the entire body, but patches are most common on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. Systemic medications and biologics treat the condition internally, providing widespread symptom control.
Psoriasis Treatment targets the visible and systemic manifestations of the disease:
Effective Psoriasis Treatment delivers profound improvements in both physical and emotional well-being:
Significant Reduction in Symptoms
Successful chronic treatment achieves remarkable skin clarity, reducing the severity of scaling, redness, and itching. This restores comfort and improves the appearance of the affected skin.
Elevated Quality of Life
Managing the severe pain and visible symptoms associated with psoriasis alleviates emotional distress, embarrassment, and social anxiety. Patients gain confidence and feel empowered to participate fully in daily life.
At the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery, our dermatology physician assistants, Colleen Van Egeren, PA-C, and Megan MacCarthy, PA-C, have 34 years of combined experience treating various skin conditions. As dermatology specialists, they would love to talk with you about your needs and recommend a skincare treatment program just for you.
Patients in Appleton and Green Bay choose Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery because of the skill, experience, and personal attention that our team provides. Learn what other people in our community have to say about our doctors and their treatment.
If you have been diagnosed with psoriasis or suspect you have the medical condition due to persistent red, scaly patches, professional Psoriasis Treatment is right for you. Our Providers specialize in diagnosing the type and severity and designing a treatment plan that manages your symptoms effectively, even in severe psoriasis. We will review your medical history and current health status before starting systemic medications or biologics.
Effective Psoriasis Treatment requires dedication and consistent monitoring due to the chronic nature of the medical condition.
Improvements can be gradual. Patients beginning topical steroids or phototherapy may see initial results within a few weeks.
Improvements can be gradual. Patients beginning topical steroids or phototherapy may see initial results within a few weeks. Results from systemic medications or biologics can take several weeks to months to fully manifest. Symptom control is maintained indefinitely through dedicated chronic treatment and continuous immune system monitoring.
Psoriasis is no fun, but thankfully, the condition can be managed with safe, effective, non-surgical treatments. Our dermatology providers are here to diagnose and treat patients with psoriasis in Green Bay, Appleton, and the surrounding areas. Contact us at (920) 380-9890 to schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.
When it comes to psoriasis treatment, patience is essential. It may take several weeks for the prescribed treatment to take full effect. In fact, some of the medications we use can take up to 12 months to deliver their full results.
Psoriasis treatment aims to stop skin cells from rapidly regenerating and remove itchy, scaly patches.
No, psoriasis is an immune-mediated medical condition and is absolutely not contagious. It cannot be passed from person to person. It is caused by an abnormality in the patient's immune system, leading to rapid skin cell turnover.
Yes, stress is a known trigger that can lead to flare-ups or worsen existing psoriasis symptoms. While medication is an effective treatment, managing lifestyle factors and reducing stress is an important part of a holistic treatment plan.
Biologics are a class of systemic medications administered by injection or infusion that target specific proteins in the immune system that drive inflammation in psoriasis. They are considered one of the most effective treatment options for moderate to severe psoriasis and are performed safely under close medical supervision, including regular blood tests.
Yes, a significant percentage of psoriasis patients may also develop psoriatic arthritis, a related medical condition that causes severe joint pain and swelling. Our integrated approach monitors for this complication to ensure comprehensive care.
At the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery, you can enjoy a range of cosmetic procedures and dedicated care in our offices in Appleton and Green Bay. As a double-board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sauerhammer specializes in rejuvenating surgical solutions, including breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and facelifts, designed to help you look and feel your best. We seamlessly integrate all our plastic surgery services with skilled dermatology care and aesthetic specialists: Megan MacCarthy, PA-C, Colleen Van Egeren, PA-C, and Amanda Olsen, PA-C. They prioritize your goals through comprehensive evaluations and advanced techniques to help you achieve optimal and long-lasting results.
Improvements can be gradual. Patients beginning topical steroids or phototherapy may see initial results within a few weeks. Results from systemic medications or biologics can take several weeks to months to fully manifest. Symptom control is maintained indefinitely through dedicated chronic treatment and continuous immune system monitoring.
