Mangaluru: Father Muller Medical College Hospital inaugurated its new Dermatology Outpatient Department and Aesthetic Dermatology Clinic, marking a significant upgrade in skin care and cosmetic treatment services in the region. The facility was blessed by Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, during a formal ceremony held on the second floor of the Utility Building.

The event was graced by eminent international dermatologists Dr Lucinda Claire Fuller and Dr Hassan Galadari, who praised the clinic’s capacity and infrastructure, describing it as a vital step towards easing the region’s burden of skin diseases. Dr Fuller is the Chairperson of the International Foundation of Dermatology, while Dr Galadari holds several global positions, including President of the Asian Dermatology Society.

A legacy in skin care

Rev. Fr Richard, in his keynote, recounted the department’s unique legacy, highlighting that its postgraduate programme in dermatology began in 1991, preceding even the launch of the MBBS course in 1999 — a rare distinction in Indian medical institutions. He credited the department’s deep involvement in leprosy care as one of the pillars of this success, echoing the founding vision of Rev. Fr Augustus Muller, SJ.

The new clinic features modernised facilities in line with NMC guidelines, thanks to the efforts of Fr Ajith B Menezes, Administrator of FMMC, FMCOAHS, and FMCOP. The contributions of Fr George Jeevan Sequeira and Fr Nilesh Crasta in ensuring operational support were also acknowledged.

Expanded services for patients

Dr Jacintha Martis, Professor and Head of the Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy, outlined the range of services now available, from clinical diagnosis to cosmetic treatments. Dr Ramesh Bhat, Head of Research at FMCI and former department head, lauded the administration’s vision in integrating aesthetic dermatology with traditional skin care.

Dermatology services offered

Clinical Dermatology

Patients can access comprehensive care for acne, eczema, psoriasis, pigmentary disorders, autoimmune conditions, and infections. Diagnostic capabilities include:

  • Dermatoscopy & video dermatoscopy

  • Wood’s lamp, trichogram, patch & prick testing

  • Laboratory diagnostics: KOH mount, Gram stain, fungal/bacterial cultures, and more

  • Autologous Serum Skin Test for chronic urticaria

    • Procedural Dermatology

    The clinic offers:

    • Biopsies, cryotherapy, cautery, excision of benign lesions

  • PRP & GFC treatments for hair loss

  • Microneedling for scars and hair regrowth

  • Vitiligo surgeries: punch grafting, suction blister grafting, melanocyte transplantation

    • Aesthetic Dermatology

    Modern laser equipment—Q-switched Nd:YAG, IPL, and CO₂ lasers—is used for:

    • Pigmentation correction

  • Laser hair removal

  • Vascular lesion treatment

  • Anti-aging: Botox, dermal fillers

    • Chemical Peels and Rejuvenation

    A variety of chemical peels for melasma, acne, and scars

    • Radiofrequency-assisted microneedling for stretch marks and rejuvenation

    STI and Leprosy Management

    Facilities include:

    • Tzanck smear, slit skin smear, nerve biopsy

  • Multidisciplinary leprosy management

  • MCR footwear, sensory-motor assessment

    • International recognition

    The clinic received positive remarks from international delegates, including a visiting team from Brawijaya University, Indonesia. Dr Fuller and Dr Galadari both emphasised the importance of collaboration and innovation in improving patient outcomes and sharing best practices globally.

    With an expert team of consultants and aesthetic dermatologists, the department continues to build on its long-standing reputation for excellence and compassion in skin care.