Business Details
49 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Dermatology Experts in San Luis Obispo
San Luis Dermatology has been a trusted provider of dermatologic care in San Luis Obispo since 1977. Founded by Dr. Jeffrey Herten, our practice has grown from a single physician to a team of four board-certified dermatologists, two physician assistants, and 25 support staff across three locations. We specialize in diagnosing and treating skin conditions, including skin cancer, melanoma, and complex dermatologic disorders, utilizing advanced technologies like Mohs micrographic surgery and dermatoscopic imaging.Our team combines decades of clinical expertise with a commitment to patient-centered care, offering personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs. With affiliations to academic institutions and recognition in leading medical journals, we maintain rigorous standards of excellence while fostering a welcoming environment for all patients.
Services
Skin Cancer Treatment
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Acne Treatment
Rosacea Management
Chemical Peels
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of experience serving San Luis Obispo County.
- Our team includes board-certified dermatologists and Mohs surgery specialists.
- We offer comprehensive skin cancer diagnosis and treatment using advanced technologies.
- Our providers accept Medicare and most PPO plans as a courtesy.
- We serve patients across three convenient locations in San Luis Obispo County.
What people say
Very professional
Knowledgeable staff
Outstanding service
No extended wait times
Stellar approach
Services
Skin Cancer Treatment
Our team specializes in early detection and treatment of skin cancer using advanced techniques like dermatoscopic evaluation and Mohs micrographic surgery. We provide comprehensive care for melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, including cryotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Our approach combines precision with personalized follow-up to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
This precise skin cancer treatment removes tumors layer by layer, minimizing healthy tissue loss. Our fellowship-trained surgeons use frozen section histology to achieve complete margin control during surgery. Ideal for complex or recurrent cancers, this technique offers high cure rates while preserving cosmetic appearance in sensitive areas like the face.
Acne Treatment
We offer aggressive, multi-modal treatments for acne to prevent scarring and restore confidence. Options include topical medications, oral therapies, laser technology, and chemical peels. Our providers tailor regimens to individual skin types and severity levels, addressing both active breakouts and long-term skin health.
Rosacea Management
Our specialists address rosacea through targeted therapies and lifestyle guidance. Treatments combine prescription medications, laser therapy, and skincare education to reduce inflammation and visible blood vessels. We help patients identify triggers and develop maintenance plans for long-term symptom control.
Chemical Peels
These treatments improve texture, pigmentation, and fine lines through controlled exfoliation. We offer peels ranging from mild refreshers to deeper resurfacing options. Dr. Heffernan's 20+ years of experience ensures safe, effective results tailored to each patient's skin concerns and aesthetic goals.
People
Michael P. Heffernan
Dermatologist
Board-certified dermatologist with expertise in skin cancer treatment and biologic therapies. Former academic leader and pharmaceutical researcher with over 20 years of clinical experience.
Charles B. Fishman
Dermatologist
Founder of the California Central Coast Dermatological Society. Specializes in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment with 45+ years of local practice experience.
Joseph W. Diehl
Dermatologist
Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. Completed a Mohs surgery fellowship and specializes in complex skin cancer cases, returning to his hometown to serve the community.
Cheryl Ketelsen
Physician Assistant
Diplomate Fellow with expertise in general dermatology. Graduated from Samuel Merritt University and brings specialized knowledge in skin condition management since 2017.
Lacey Kalinen
Physician Assistant
Board-certified specialist in medical and surgical dermatology. Completed advanced training in Mohs histology and aesthetic dermatology, serving patients in North County locations.
Questions
What dermatology services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive care including skin cancer treatment, Mohs surgery, acne management, rosacea treatment, chemical peels, and diagnosis of various skin conditions.
Do you accept new patients?
Yes, Dr. Heffernan, Dr. Diehl, Cheryl Ketelsen PA-C, and Lacey Kalinen PA-C are currently accepting new patients at our San Luis Obispo locations.
What insurance plans do you accept?
We are contracted with Medicare and accept most PPO plans as a courtesy for out-of-network coverage.
Are emergency appointments available?
Existing patients can contact our physicians directly for after-hour dermatology emergencies through our answering machine system.
How many office locations do you have?
We operate three offices in San Luis Obispo County: Santa Rosa Street, Bishop Street, and Atascadero locations.
