Skin ExpertsOrganization, Mission and Service

ASDS Organization, Mission and Service

About the ASDS Organization

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) is the largest specialty organization in the United States exclusively representing dermatologic surgeons who have unique training and experience to treat the health, function and beauty of skin throughout every stage of life. ASDS members are recognized as leaders in the field of cosmetic and medically necessary skin surgery. Dermatologic surgeons also are experts in skin cancer prevention, detection and treatment. As the incidence of skin cancer rises, dermatologic surgeons are committed to taking steps to minimize the life-threatening effects of this disease.

ASDS supports its over 6,400 dermatologist members through educational opportunities, networking forums, mentoring programs, public awareness activities, leadership activities and advocacy efforts through the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association

Find a board certified dermatologic surgeon near you.

ASDS Mission

To advance the skin health and well-being of patients and community through education, research and innovation in the art and science of surgical, medical and cosmetic treatments.

Patient Education

The skin is the body’s largest organ and protection. ASDS board-certified dermatologists are experts in performing a wide range of treatments and procedures to treat the health, function and beauty of skin throughout every stage of life. ASDS provides a variety of educational materials to inform patients on various skin conditions and guide them through treatment options.

There are a variety of skin conditions that cause people to seek the services of a dermatologic surgeon, but the most common causes are:

  • Skin damage from sun exposure, such as benign and malignant growths and tumors, broken capillaries, lines and pigmentation problems.
  • Diseases and disorders of the skin such as skin cancer, acne, moles, birthmarks and rashes.
  • Other diseases that visibly affect the skin, such as diabetes, HIV, hormonal imbalances and internal cancer..
  • Trauma – injury and accidents that can cause relatively minor wounds and scars to more serious disfiguration.
  • Genetic factors with skin manifestations – inherited tendencies toward certain disorders such as hair loss, varicose veins, dark shadows under the eyes and resistant fat deposits.
  • Aging and its effects on appearance, such as lines and wrinkles, brown spots and resistant fat deposits.


    Learn more about skin conditions and skin treatment options.

    • Public Service

    One in five Americans will develop some type of skin cancer over the course of their lifetime.1 In fact, more people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined. With early detection and treatment most skin cancers are completely curable.

    ASDS members perform millions of skin cancer treatments each year and, through various public service programs and sun-safe education, ASDS members are leading the charge for skin cancer prevention.

    Research has shown that most skin cancers are detected by patients rather than doctors. Learning how to examine your own skin and allowing your physician to periodically help can promote skin health and also can dramatically reduce your risks of having significant problems with skin cancer. Learn about self-examinations by downloading a free Skin Cancer Self-Exam Kit.

    ASDS members offer EXPERTISE for the life of your skin. Find one near you at asds.net/find

    References
    1. Stern RS. Prevalence of a history of skin cancer in 2007: results of an incidence-based model. Arch Dermatol. 2010 Mar; 146(3):279-82.