Skin Care Gets a New Facelift: Derma OPD & Aesthetic Dermatology Clinic Inaugurated at Father Muller
Mangaluru, May 3, 2025: A new chapter in dermatological care was unveiled at Father Muller Medical College Hospital with the inauguration and blessing of the new Dermatology Outpatient Department and the state-of-the-art Aesthetic Dermatology Clinic. Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, presided over the ceremony held on the second floor of the Utility Building at 3:30 PM and invoked blessings for the healthcare professionals and patients who will benefit from the upgraded facility.
Esteemed international dignitaries graced the occasion, including Dr Lucinda Claire Fuller, Chairperson of the International Foundation of Dermatology and the International League of Dermatology, and Dr Hassan Galadari, Secretary of the International Society of Dermatology, President of the Asian Dermatology Society, and Former Secretary of the International League of Dermatological Societies.
Dr Fuller expressed admiration for the OPD’s capacity and patient volume, recognizing its potential to significantly reduce the burden of skin diseases. She offered prayers for continued guidance and healing through the work carried out by the clinic’s staff. Echoing similar sentiments, Dr Galadari commended the scale and reach of the facility, emphasizing the importance of translating knowledge into better diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.
In his address, Fr Richard highlighted the legacy of the Dermatology Department, which began its postgraduate program (MD Dermatology) in 1991—eight years before the launch of the MBBS course in 1999—a distinction shared by only two other institutions in India. He attributed this milestone to the department’s dedicated care for leprosy patients and the visionary leadership of the institution’s founder, Rev. Fr Augustus Muller, SJ.
Fr Ajith B Menezes, Administrator of FMMC, FMCOAHS, and FMCOP, was appreciated for spearheading the renovation in line with NMC guidelines, ensuring both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Fr George Jeevan Sequeira and Fr Nilesh Crasta, Administrators of FMMCH, were also acknowledged for their support in logistical coordination.
Dr Ramesh Bhat, Head of Research at FMCI and former Head of the Dermatology Department, lauded the management’s initiative in establishing a comprehensive aesthetic dermatology clinic that addresses both medical and cosmetic needs.
Dr Jacintha Martis, Professor and Head of the Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy, delivered the vote of thanks and briefed the gathering on the wide array of services now available. She also extended a warm welcome to international delegates from Brawijaya University, Indonesia.
Dermatology Services at a Glance
The Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy at Father Muller Medical College is renowned for its excellence in clinical, procedural, and aesthetic dermatology. It has been conferred the Best Department Award three times by IADVL Karnataka.
Clinical Dermatology
The department offers expert care for infections, autoimmune skin disorders, pigmentary abnormalities, acne, eczema, psoriasis, and hair and nail disorders. Diagnostic tools include dermatoscopy, video dermatoscopy, Wood’s lamp examination, trichogram, patch testing, and skin prick testing. Laboratory diagnostics such as KOH mount, Gram stain, Giemsa stain, and fungal/bacterial cultures are routinely performed. Advanced management options like the Autologous Serum Skin Test for chronic urticaria are also available.
Procedural Dermatology
A wide range of dermatosurgical procedures is offered, including biopsies, excision of benign growths, cryotherapy, and cautery techniques. Therapies like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and GFC (Growth Factor Concentrate) for hair loss, microneedling for scars and hair therapy, and surgical options for vitiligo—such as punch grafting, suction blister grafting, and melanocyte transplantation—reflect the department’s procedural expertise.
Aesthetic Dermatology
Using advanced laser technologies such as Q-switched Nd:YAG, IPL, and CO₂ lasers, the clinic offers treatments for pigmentation correction, hair removal, vascular lesions, and skin rejuvenation. Anti-aging therapies including Botox and dermal fillers are also available for wrinkle reduction and volume enhancement.
Chemical Peels & Rejuvenation
A comprehensive selection of chemical peels targets pigmentation, melasma, and acne. Radiofrequency-assisted microneedling is offered for the treatment of scars, stretch marks, and overall facial revitalization.
STI & Leprosy Management
The clinic provides comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic services for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and leprosy. Diagnostic tools include Tzanck smears, slit skin smears, and nerve biopsies. Supportive care such as MCR footwear and sensory-motor assessments are also integrated into the treatment regimen.
With a team of expert consultants, trained aesthetic dermatologists, and skilled support staff, the department remains at the forefront of dermatological innovation. Committed to excellence, it continues to serve as a beacon of hope and healing in skin care.
