April News You Can Use Editorial

The Many Paths to a Successful Dermatology Career 

By: Shawna A. Flanagan, MD

There is no such thing as a “typical” dermatology career. What begins as a carefully planned path often evolves into something entirely unexpected shaped by opportunities, challenges, and the courage to take risks at pivotal moments.

Being later in my career, I have had the privilege of gaining a deep understanding of the many possible paths within dermatology. A career in dermatology rarely follows a straight line; instead, it evolves over time, shaped by opportunities, interests, and life circumstances. 

As a newly graduated resident today, you have far more options than were available in decades past. These include pursuing a cosmetic fellowship, completing a Mohs micrographic surgery fellowship, engaging in research, joining a private equity–backed practice, working with industry, or even building a presence as an influencer.

First and foremost, it is important to reflect on which path will bring you the greatest sense of fulfillment and the right balance between your professional and personal life. While your initial choice may help guide your trajectory, it does not define your entire career. Many dermatologists evolve and pivot over time.

I have gathered insights from several esteemed colleagues on career development that I am honored to share.

Dr. Ashley Wysong, President of the Women's Dermatologic Society, offers this perspective: “When it comes to practice and career development, I have always tried to remain open to possibility. Looking back, it is often the unexpected turns and stretch opportunities that initially felt slightly beyond my comfort zone—that proved most transformative.

Some of the most meaningful chapters of my career, from growing a Mohs unit after fellowship to leading the development of a new academic dermatology department and serving in leadership roles, came from opportunities I had not originally planned for.

The key has been learning to see not only what is, but what could be—believing in myself enough to take thoughtful risks, surrounding myself with exceptional people, and then fully committing. That mindset has shaped my leadership journey and continues to guide me.”

Dr. Alyx Rosen Aigan, a member of the WDS Board of Directors, Associate Professor at the University of Miami’s Dr. Philip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, and a mother of three young children, shares: “Career development is shaped not only by the opportunities we pursue, but by the people who guide and support us along the way. Mentorship—both receiving it and paying it forward—is one of the most powerful forces in building a meaningful career.

As an academic dermatologist and surgeon, I’ve learned that success doesn’t come from doing everything at once, but from being intentional and flexible with priorities in each season. Building a strong support system is essential, as is being fully present in whatever role you are in.

There are real trade-offs, but over time, these pieces come together to create a career and life that feel both fulfilling and sustainable.”

Dr. Lillia Correa, Associate Professor at the University of South Florida and Chief of Dermatologic Surgery at Moffitt Cancer Center, reflects on the value of a non-linear path: “As a non-traditional applicant, my path was tortuous and did not follow a straight line. There were times of uncertainty, and it was not always clear. I just kept taking the opportunities as they came, learned from them and enjoyed them as much as I could. Today, I can use all the tools that I learned in my journey and they all made me the dermatologist and Mohs surgeon that I am now. Through my journey, I was very lucky to build a family with three girls and a great husband, who through this day supports me in everything I do. I built a life rooted in purpose, love, and resilience. Now, every day I heal others while raising three daughters who will never have to wonder if they belong—I am living proof that they do. They complete me and make my life so full of beautiful and fantastic challenges. Trust that everything happens for a reason, enjoy all the opportunities and give your 110% in all of them.” 

Dr. Terrence Cronin Jr., past president of the American Academy of Dermatology and recipient of the Walter B. Shelley WDS Mentor Award, emphasizes the importance of community:“Surround yourself with exceptional colleagues for inspiration and support. It is one of the best ways to stay passionate about dermatology.”

My own journey began in an academic setting at the University of Miami, where I spent two years before opening a solo private practice in Jupiter, Florida nearly 30 years ago. Since then, my career has included numerous pivots and evolutions—as both a dermatologist and a business owner.

I strongly echo the advice of my colleagues: remain open to possibilities and do not be afraid to try new things, even if they do not always succeed. Growth often comes from those very experiences.

Regardless of the path you choose, meaningful career development is driven by continuous learning, proactive action, and resilience. It often requires stepping outside of your comfort zone and choosing growth over fear.

In the end, a fulfilling dermatology career is not defined by a single decision, but by a series of thoughtful choices, openness to change, and the courage to evolve.