Dr. Sylvia Garnis-Jones

Dermatologist | MD MSc FRCPC

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I am Dr. Sylvia Garnis-Jones, a dermatologist.

What it means to be a Dermatologist

It is common for family doctors to state having a 'special interest' in dermatology, which can be easily confused as meaning they are a dermatologist. However, during the two-year residency that a family doctor usually has after their medical degree, very little of that time is spent learning dermatology. In contrast, dermatology requires a 5-year residency program.

Thankfully, there is an easy way to distinguish dermatologists by looking for the acronym FRCPC listed in a doctor's credentials. This stands for Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and membership is only approved for specialists.

How I came to be a certified specialist in dermatology

The significance of receiving real dermatology training is illustrated by my own experience. After completing my medical degree (MD) and Masters of Science (MSc) in Anatomy at McGill University, I completed an additional five years residency to obtain the dermatologist specialty certification. During that time, I worked in a variety of medical settings treating severe cases of psoriasis, rashes, skin cancers, ect.

My career continued on as I passionately pursued advanced training in skin cancer treatment, which included working as the director of malignant melanoma research laboratories in Ottawa and Vancouver.

In my quest to advance the field of dermatology, I served as the director of the Niagara psoriasis unit, providing the only narrow-band phototherapy for psoriasis in all of southern Ontario. It's been incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact of this specialized treatment on the lives of patients struggling with psoriasis.

Additionally, my commitment to advancing the intersection of dermatology and psychosomatic medicine led me to the role of president of the North America Society of Psychotaneous Medicine. This journey allowed me to explore the profound connection between the mind and skin health, a field that continues to fascinate me.

My dedication to Dermatology was eventually recognized internationally, earning me a place in the prestigious International Who's Who.

Continuing the Journey: Today's Pursuits in Dermatology

In my practice, which spans offices in Maple Ridge, Kelowna, and Vernon in beautiful British Columbia, I strive to make a difference. It's a privilege to be an assistant professor at UBC, where I have the opportunity to inspire and guide the next generation of dermatologists.

One of the areas I've been particularly passionate about in my practice is addressing hair loss, a concern that affects many men and women. I understand the emotional toll this condition can take, and I'm dedicated to providing personalized care and tailored solutions that restore confidence and self-assurance. During that time, I worked in a variety of medical settings treating severe cases of psoriasis, rashes, skin cancers, ect.

My career continued on as I passionately pursued advanced training in skin cancer treatment, which included working as the director of malignant melanoma research laboratories in Ottawa and Vancouver. My dedication to advancing the field of Dermatology was recognized internationally, earning me a place in the prestigious International Who's Who.

My Focus

Integrative dermatology
I am commited to understanding the whole cause of a skin or hair issue - the internal and external contributing factors. The misdiagnosis of skin disorders is often due to a lack of a thorough investigation.
Specialized hair loss treatments
In my practice, my commitment to addressing hair loss goes beyond just cosmetic solutions. I take a comprehensive medical approach, recognizing that hair loss can be a symptom of underlying health issues. I ensure that my patients receive the best possible care by conducting a thorough assessment of their condition. This often includes sending them for essential tests, such as blood work, to identify any potential underlying causes. By combining the insights from these tests with my dermatological expertise, I can provide a holistic and tailored approach to hair loss treatment. My goal is not only to help my patients regain their hair but also to address any root causes, fostering long-term health and confidence.
Integrity in aesthetics
Integrity in aesthetics has always been at the core of my practice. I believe in the importance of maintaining a natural and authentic look when it comes to cosmetic procedures. Rather than pursuing trends or excessive interventions, I prioritize enhancing a person's natural beauty. My approach is grounded in open and honest communication with my patients. I take the time to understand their unique goals, ensuring that their expectations are aligned with the outcomes of any aesthetic procedures.
Psoriasis
My commitment to dermatology includes a dedicated focus on psoriasis, a challenging skin condition that can significantly impact one's quality of life. I specialize in offering advanced treatments, such as UVB phototherapy and biologics, which have shown remarkable results in managing psoriasis. I understand the emotional toll this condition can take, and my approach is not only medical but also compassionate, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects. My goal is to empower my patients to live comfortably and confidently, ensuring they receive the best possible care.