Southside Dermatology & Laser Cosmetic Center patients living along the coast will soon have a shorter drive to access the many services offered by Dr. Mary Pentel and her staff.
On July 13, the practice will add a second location, this one at 572 Jacksonville Dr. in Jacksonville Beach.
“We are so excited,” said Pentel, who has been practicing in the area for more than 20 years.
Patients have long sought care at the practice’s main location, 4727 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, but this new office will be particularly convenient to those living between Neptune Beach and Ponte Vedra. Longtime patients have greeted the news with enthusiasm and told Pentel that they will encourage friends to go there.
One of the reasons Pentel wanted to expand was to bring her laser technology to the beach area. Southside Dermatology has lasers for all types of situations, including one that is so large it can treat patients from head to toe.
Pentel emphasized the importance of matching the correct laser to the patient’s skin type and condition.
“We have so many lasers, we make sure to get the right one for you,” she said.
The practice specializes in skin of color, minimally invasive procedures and treating scars.
Beyond that, Southside Dermatology offers a full spectrum of services and treatments, including general dermatology, aesthetic services, skin cancer surgery, cosmetic services, cellulite removal, skin tightening, feminine rejuvenation, acre treatment, spa services and much more.
For those seeking to mitigate the effects of aging, Southside Dermatology has an answer.
“We’re moving toward ‘pre-rejuvenation’ to get ahead of the aging curve,” Pentel said. “And it’s more cost-effective. If you start early to slow the aging process, you don’t have to do as much as you get older.”
To help address skin cancer, Southside Dermatology offers photodynamic therapy and superficial radiotherapy as alternatives to surgery.
“I like to offer my patients options,” Pentel said.
Though her practice offers a comprehensive approach to treatment, Pentel’s philosophy may have played a significant role in her success.
“Treat everyone how you want to be treated,” she said. “Take care of your patients well. Treat them like family. And be personable. Your personality needs to show through.”
In addition, she is always learning and attends conferences to stay on top of the latest developments, something her patients enjoy hearing about.
“My patients always ask: What’s new? What’s new?” Pentel said.
To help protect her patients during the coronavirus pandemic, Pentel’s office takes precautions. That includes masks, taking temperatures, asking relevant questions and allowing patients to wait in their cars rather than the waiting room.
Patients can also connect via TeleHelp for online visits.
In fact, Southside Dermatology employs the latest technology in nontreatment areas as well. Patients can schedule appointments online. And the practice has an online store for products and procedures.
In addition to Pentel, the staff at the new Jacksonville Beach office will include Dr. Ivette Sosa Seda, advanced practice registered nurse Jenifer Scott George and licensed aesthetician Judi Moise.
Office hours will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Appointments are being taken now at (904) 880-0622.
