How to resolve AdBlock issue? Gwinnett Dermatology Celebrates 40 Years
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- Tiffany Brix | GwinnettCitizen.com
In the late 1970s, 80s, and into the 90s, Gwinnett County went through incredible growth. Businesses of all kinds flooded into the area. There have been many who have not made it for various reasons, especially with the ebb and flow of economic factors. A few, however, have flourished through the decades since the initial boom. Gwinnett Dermatology is one of those long-standing pillars in the fabric of Gwinnett County. This year, they celebrate a significant 40th anniversary!
Dr. Shavin, the senior physician at Gwinnett Dermatology, graduated from Emory University School of Medicine in 1969 and completed a 3-year residency in pediatrics. He achieved board certification and started Northlake Pediatrics in Tucker. After practicing there for 3 1/2 years, in 1976 with the unwavering support of his wife, Brenda, he decided to change his specialty to dermatology. With two small children and a new home, this was no small undertaking. Shavin completed a dermatology residency at the Medical College of Georgia in 1978. At that time, a group of doctors just starting their careers had the vision to build a robust medical community. They asked Dr. Shavin to join them. He accepted, excited about their concept. Now, 40 years later, it feels as though that excitement and community vision is still alive in the ever-growing practice.
Gwinnett Dermatology has migrated a few times over its 40 years. In July of 1978, they shared a tiny office space in the old Snellville Plaza. There were only five waiting chairs and two exam rooms at the time. Then in 1981, they moved the office to Fountain Drive. In 1988, growth mandated a move to a larger office on Lenora Church Rd. In 1991, significant expansion prompted Dr. Shavin to add a partner, Dr. Jonathan Weiss. Continued growth in 1998 led to the addition of Dr. Keith Wright, a Mohs Micrographic Surgeon, specializing in the advanced treatment of skin cancers. This growth necessitated the move to the current building on Pate Street in the heart of downtown Snellville in 1999.
Gwinnett Dermatology received a Proclamation from the City of Snellville which was presented by Snellville Mayor Pro Tem Barbara Bender. Picture (L-R) Dr. Keith Wright, Snellville Mayor Pro Tem Barbara Bender, Dr. Joel ShavinWith these impeccable physicians, you also get full-service dermatology: cosmetic, medical, surgical, and pathology. Aesthetics at Gwinnett Dermatology, done to the highest standards under medical supervision, started before the move to the current space. Aesthetics at Gwinnett Dermatology began exponential growth about 18 years ago with the addition of Valorie English, the coordinator for this segment of the practice. Cosmetic, in turn, took flight when Dr. Brown joined the team of physicians.
Dr. Shavin also spearheaded the Gwinnett Clinical Research Center in 1981. Dr. Weiss joined the Research center in 1991; together they have conducted hundreds of clinical trials on a multitude of medical and aesthetic dermatological therapies.
Gwinnett Dermatology is the premier place to go for all of your dermatological needs in our county and even beyond. While they are are a powerhouse in what they can offer, including multiple locations, each patient still gets personal care, just as when Dr. Shavin started his solo practice. In fact, Dr. Shavin’s wife, Brenda, served as the office book-keeper for 30 years. Gwinnett Dermatology cannot overlook her role in the practice’s growth. She retired ten years ago to focus on playing bridge (with the proud achievement of Life Master status under her belt), and the more critical role of spoiling her two granddaughters. Dr. Shavin not only pours praises of his wife for when she selflessly supported his path back to med school to pursue dermatology all those years ago. He also credits her with all success—professionally and personally. Arguably, over the tenure of Gwinnett Dermatology, that supportive relationship between Brenda and Dr. Shavin acts as an example and standard for kind interaction throughout the practice. It keeps a personal feel even as the medical practice continues to grow and expand after 40 beautiful years.
For more information, a list of services, or to make an appointment, please visit www.gwinnettdermatology.com or call (770) 972-4845.