Paul A. Saconn, M.D.
Beaufort Memorial New River Cancer Center
What is your specialty?
I am board certified in radiation oncology.
Where did you study?
I received an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a medical degree from Wake Forest School of Medicine. I did my residency at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and received additional specialized training in the management of prostate cancer at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan, and Seattle Prostate Institute in Seattle, Washington.
Why did you become a physician?
To provide people with the best possible care during a difficult time in their lives. Before going to medical school (at 35), I spent 12 years as a counselor, case manager and social worker. Now, as a radiation oncologist, I take the same personalized, holistic approach to caring for my patients that I did as a counselor, treating both the physical and the emotional aspects of their cancer diagnoses.
What inspires you in your practice?
I am inspired by the courageousness that I witness every single day in my patients and their families.
What is exciting about your field right now?
Recent innovations in technology are enabling radiation oncologists to customize radiotherapy to an ever-greater extent. As a result, we’re seeing real improvement in treatment outcomes for our patients.
What advice would you give someone who just started their career?
Strive to always improve your craft and to work at being the best at what you do.
When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you spend it?
My wife and I have two school-age children, and we love to go on family walks along the beach and around our neighborhood where we chitchat and catch up with one another. I also enjoy playing the guitar and composing music.
Beaufort Memorial Radiation Oncology
New River Cancer Center
122 Okatie Center Blvd. North, Suite 130
Okatie, SC 29909
(843) 273-7980
James R. Canham, D.D.S.
Southern Smiles Dentistry
What is your specialty?
While I enjoy all aspects of dentistry, my favorite is oral surgery. I find it challenging and rewarding. I have dedicated the last decade to improving my skills and expanding the services that I’m able to provide.
Why did you become a physician?
I knew from a very young age that I wanted to pursue a career in dentistry. I chose general dentistry to be able to perform all dental services. But to be honest, it’s the people I meet and work with that make it so great!
What inspires you in your practice?
I have a tremendous thirst for knowledge. I attend classes all the time. During the pandemic, I immersed myself in learning complex new techniques.
What do you do to achieve work/life balance?
I grew up on a lake, so being on or near the water is important to me. When it’s warm, I love the beach and boating. When it’s cool, simply walking the beach is therapeutic. So, I take my family to the ocean as often as I can.
What is exciting about your field right now?
I am very excited about full-mouth reconstruction using dental implants. It’s a life-changing treatment for people who would have previously had to resort to false teeth.
What do you do outside of work?
Work around the house and spend time with my family.
What advice would you give to someone who just started their career?
Learn as much as you can in the fields of digital dentistry and implant dentistry. Learning new skills will always keep you excited about your profession.
What career memory will you always look back on fondly?
Moving to Hilton Head Island from Chicago and realizing that how great it was to pursue my dreams in such a beautiful place.
When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time?
During the work week, I seldomly have 30 minutes of free time. However, I make sure that I enjoy life outside of dentistry, which involves love and laughs with family and friends.
What skill or craft would you like to master?
Golf. I don’t have a lot of time right now, but I hope to play more in the future.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Wherever my friends and family are. I don’t have trouble having fun no matter where I am.
15 Lafayette Place Suite E
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 686-5526
southernsmiles.net
Thomas Kandl, M.D.
Georgia Eye Institute
What is your specialty?
Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Why did you become a physician?
Growing up, I had an early introduction to health care through my dad, who was a dentist in the Air Force. As I went through school, I found myself drawn to the sciences, but what truly led me to my profession was people. I enjoy interacting with people, and medicine allows me to draw on a subject matter I’m interested in and use my knowledge and skill set to help those people.
What inspires you in your practice?
Everyone I treat has their own story that is unique to them, and my job allows me to become part of their story in a positive way.
What do you do to achieve work/life balance?
I have a wonderful wife, a new daughter, and two giant puppies who keep me grounded and allow me to be present at all times, whether that’s at work or at home.
What is exciting about your field right now?
There continue to be new techniques to solve problems that have always existed. We have good solutions to most problems we encounter, but there is always a drive to improve.
What do you do outside of work?
Anything that involves spending time with my family—outdoor adventures, beach trips, boating, sports, and traveling.
What advice would you give someone who just started their career?
Find something you are passionate about and follow it.
What is a memory from your career that you will always look back on fondly?
I’ll always remember the day I graduated from my sub-specialty training. I spent almost a decade working towards that goal, and that diploma allows me to work in a field I’m truly passionate about.
When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time?
Thirty minutes of free time are spent playing with my daughter. If she’s asleep, then reading about or watching sports.
What skill or craft would you like to master?
I like to experiment in the kitchen, so I’d say cooking.
Favorite vacation spot?
We try to go explore someplace new every vacation. There’s so much to experience, but hands to the fire, I’d say New Zealand.
109 Persimmon St.
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 757-4400
gaeyeinstitute.com
Stephen Tiley, D.O.
Beaufort Memorial New River Cancer Center
What is your specialty?
I am board certified in hematology and medical oncology.
Where did you study medicine?
I attended the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and did my residency at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.
Why did you become a physician?
I was always interested in science and wanted to pursue a career where I could help people.
What inspires you in your practice?
I am continually humbled and inspired by my patients and their families. I have the privilege of working with patients as they face very difficult health challenges. Seeing the strength and bravery of patients and their families is always inspiring to me. I am also continually impressed with the dedication of the many doctors, nurses, technicians, volunteers and administrators I get to work with every day.
What is exciting about your field right now?
There are an amazing number of new developments in oncology right now. These include new immunotherapy medications, which can help the immune system fight cancer. We are also seeing more targeted medications to fight lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer and others. These have proven to be more effective and better tolerated treatments for many patients.
What advice would you give someone who just started their career?
Work hard and remember that it takes a team to provide the best possible patient care.
What do you do outside of work?
I am extremely fortunate to have three wonderful children ages 5, 10 and 11. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with them, bike riding, playing games and going to the beach. I also enjoy golfing and fishing.
What skill or craft would you like to master?
I would like to learn to play guitar.
Beaufort Memorial Oncology Specialists
New River Cancer Center
122 Okatie Center Blvd. North, Suite 110
Okatie, SC 29909
(843) 522-7350
George Sutherland, M.D.
Optim rthopedics
Dr. George Sutherland, M.D. is a sports medicine specialist with over 16 years of experience in the medical field. He has been living in and serving the Lowcountry for over 12 years. Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, he graduated with honors from Eastern Virginia Medical School. After graduation, he completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at LSU Medical Center in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Dr. Sutherland received his fellowship training from the Hughston Sports Medicine Clinic in Columbus, Ga. He is trained to treat and identify all forms of injury to your musculoskeletal system including the bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and joints. After making a diagnosis, Dr. Sutherland will resort to surgery when all other treatment options have been exhausted or ruled out. He performs shoulder and knee reconstruction and specializes in sports medicine surgeries and arthroscopic surgeries.
“In my practice, I cover pediatrics, trauma, and sports medicine. I have a lot of experience in an array of different areas,” Sutherland said. This cross-training between trauma and sports injuries has given him a uniquely well-rounded perspective. Patients might need the attention from Dr. Sutherland for torn ligaments, sports injuries, fractures, sprains, and more.
If you ask Dr. Sutherland what surgery he enjoys performing most, he will confidently respond, “shoulder.” A separated shoulder or severe shoulder sprain can be debilitating and should not be ignored. He possesses an incredible understanding of the complexities of shoulder problems and will tackle any type of problem. Dr. Sutherland is a younger generation shoulder surgeon—innovative and skillful. He does a large volume of surgeries and is passionate about what he does. He is a dedicated clinician, a good decision maker, and is excellent at managing patients. His expertise in performing shoulder and knee reconstruction is unsurpassed.
Dr. Sutherland performs surgery at Coastal Carolina Hospital in Hardeeville, S.C., Hilton Head Hospital on Hilton Head Island, S.C., and Doctors Hospital of Tattnall in Reidsville, Ga.; he performs outpatient surgery at Optim Orthopedic Center in Savannah, Ga. He is currently seeing new patients at the Hilton Head Island location.
Testimonials
“I finally found the best orthopedic doctor in the area, and it is Dr. George Sutherland, J.r M.D. He gave me a thorough examination, diagnosed the problem, described the treatment, and explained everything in easy-to-understand terms. He was professional in his approach yet courteous and friendly. His entire staff was efficient and personable. If there were more doctors like Dr. Sutherland, the world would be a better place.”
—Sajmi Sajmi
“Phenomenal work! Got me back on the job and doing what I love! Complete rotator cuff tear to working in six months.”
—Scott Birchall
(843) 705-9401
georgesutherlandmd.com
Dr. Andrea Grant Guess
The New River Dental Center, PC
What is your specialty?
I am a general dentist. As such, I have the opportunity to treat a wide range of disorders of the head and neck. At The New River Dental Center, we want our patients to feel that they can have many treatments performed in one office—with familiar people, in a safe, clean, comfortable environment.
Why did you become a physician?
My ancestors were midwives and a medicine man. So, one might say it is in my genes! If you asked me when I was in kindergarten, I would have told you I wanted to be a nurse. By the time I was a teenager, my desire changed. My first dentist was a woman. I saw how she was able to balance work and life, and I was intrigued.
What inspires you in your practice?
My patients inspire me. As a Native Hilton Head Islander, my former teachers are my patients. My parents are my patients. The local police officer is my patient. We treat our patients like family. They are greeted with a smile when they first enter our office. We want to know what brings you to our office and how we can help you achieve your desires.
What do you do to achieve work/life balance?
Work/life balance is a hard task. I am fortunate in that my older children were able to attend virtual school in my office. Whenever I take continuing education classes out of town, I am able to bring my family with me. Being a business owner can be a 24/7 job. My husband is my IT coordinator, who solves my problems quickly.
What is exciting in your field right now?
Some people would not think dentistry is exciting. I beg to differ. From extractions, bone grafts, and dental implants to replacing missing teeth; from correction of crowded teeth through traditional braces or Invisalign to Botox administration to relieve facial pain and treat gummy smiles, a wide range of treatment options are available. Just ask!
What do you do outside of work?
Outside of work, I believe in giving back and enriching my community. Through organizations such as The Hilton Head Chapter of The Links, Incorporated; Hilton Head-Bluffton Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated; Queen Chapel AME Church, and school improvement organizations, I want to make my community a better place so that the next generation is excited to be a part of it.
What advice would you give someone who just started their career?
Continue to learn and enjoy it! Education is growth. Nothing stays the same, if nothing changes.
What is a memory from your career that you will always look back on fondly?
I am truly blessed to be in a field where I can make a difference in people’s perception of themselves. My staff and I receive thanks for listening when others would not and for giving options when they thought there were none. Just this week, one of my teenage patients gave me a big hug for being a great dentist and taking good care of him. One of our patients recently finished orthodontic treatment, but she was ashamed of the color of her teeth. After a round of in-office whitening, she went to prom with the biggest smile. Another patient was unhappy with dentures and felt at a loss. After placement of six implants and a roundhouse bridge, he is able to eat anything he desires. Memories are created in my office every day. I pride myself in continuing education, for myself and my staff, that allows us to have many tools in our toolbox.
What skill or craft would you like to master?
Facial therapeutics is an ever-evolving field—from Botox to relieve a patient’s headaches and nighttime grinding to injectables to replace lost volume that causes patients to feel like they are slurring their words and to correct downturned corners of the mouth. Teeth and the surrounding bone structures are the basis for muscle support. Volume loss is inevitable as we age. Now we have tools to slow things down considerably.
Favorite vacation spot?
At the moment, I find that as my children are getting older and in light of the lifestyle changes we have all made in the past year, I value all the small things: being able to have an uninterrupted conversation with my husband and children, enjoying our backyard and local environment. I can vacation anywhere my family is and enjoy it!
300 New River Parkway, Suite 1
(843) 208-2888
newriverdentist.com
Jordan Haire, D.M.D.
ROC Dental Group
What is your specialty:
General dentistry.
Why did you become a physician?
I chose dentistry because it combines two things I love: science and art. Whether it’s a single filling or a full smile makeover, I can be creative in designing my patients’ smiles while also providing preventative care for whole-body health.
What inspires you in your practice?
I’m inspired by the new people I meet in the office each day and getting to learn about what’s brought them to Hilton Head. The welcoming and comfortable environment of our office allows me to form real relationships with our patients, which really inspires me.
What do you do to achieve work/life balance?
I believe one of the most important things in life is self-care. Whether that means advancing in my career to provide more complex procedures to our patients or spending time with my family out of the office, finding time for things that make me feel like a better dentist and a better person is something I strive for daily.
What is exciting about your field right now?
Dentistry seems to be advancing daily with the incorporation of new technologies into general practices. This allows us to provide the best care and perform state-of-the-art procedures right in the office.
What do you do outside of work?
After spending the day creating smiles, I enjoy relaxing on the beach, playing volleyball, taking workout classes at Orange Theory Fitness, and eating at all the great restaurants Hilton Head has to offer.
What advice would you give someone who just started their career?
Life is short and the years go by fast. Make sure you take time to enjoy life outside of the office and cherish the moments you have with your family and friends. I believe that self-care is just as important as the care you provide to your patients in the office.
What is a memory from your career that you will always look back on fondly?
Through dual arch reconstruction I was able to recreate the smile of one of my first patients at ROC Dental Group. Seeing the transformation of not only her smile, but her self-confidence and new outlook on life, is something I’ll cherish forever.
Favorite vacation spot?
A year and a half ago, I would have picked Hilton Head as my favorite place to vacation, but now that I live here, I would say a big city like NYC or Chicago.
4101 Main Street, Suite D
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 682-4601
ROCdentalgroup.com
Thomas C. Beller, M.D.
Allergy & Asthma Center
What is your specialty?
Allergy and immunology.
Why did you become a physician?
I was very interested in science. I was drawn to medicine out of an interest in human physiology. Medicine was a pathway to study something scientific in a way that I could also do something positive for people.
What inspires you in your practice?
Taking on difficult cases that many doctors avoid. I love treating conditions that have no known cause or definitive treatments. I believe the field of allergy is going to increase significantly over the next several years as we start to realize it contributes to symptoms never initially thought to be related to allergy.
What do you do to achieve work/life balance?
I love spending time with my family and enjoying the best of Lowcountry living. I like to boat, play golf, and have friends over for dinner. I also enjoy watching TV and movies with my wife and daughters.
What is exciting in your field right now?
My field is rapidly changing as we are understanding that allergens affect us in ways that we never understood in the past. There is emerging evidence that allergy may contribute to symptoms never previously thought to be related to allergy. Some of these symptoms include reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, and other common issues.
What advice would you give someone who just started their career?
Be open minded. Recognize that established standard in medicine may not explain everything that we see.
What is a memory from your career that you will always look back on fondly?
I had a patient tell me, “Hey, you changed my life!” I restored his ability to breathe without wheezing. He was very grateful and that was incredibly satisfying.
Favorite vacation spot?
Bar Harbor, Maine. Hiking the mountains and seeing views of the rocky landscape of Maine with the ocean in the background is amazing.
60 Main Street, Unit D
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 689-6442
OPTICAL SOLUTIONS
Dr. Michael J. Berzansky, O.D., Dr. Michael A. Campbell. O.D., Dr. Michael Campbell Jr., O.D., Dr. Haley Bowles, O.D., and Dr. Tara M. Baideme, O.D.
Dr. Michael Campbell Sr., founder of Optical Solutions, has been established in the Lowcountry for 33 years. Starting with one location in 1987, he has nurtured the growth of his business over the years and currently has three state-of-the-art facilities to serve all your eyecare needs.
Optical Solutions’ first location was in the Plaza at Shelter Cove, back in the day when there was no TJ Maxx or Whole Foods, only small, local businesses. Dr. Haley Bowles, graduate of Southern College of Optometry is the optometrist now serving patients at this location along with three experienced assistants. Dr. Bowles has been with Optical Solutions for seven years and practices a full scope of optometry, which includes medical eye exams, contact evaluations, treatment and management of ocular disease, and prescription glasses.
As the island grew, Dr. Campbell saw the need to expand. In 1989, he opened a second location, adding a full-service lab, which would give him the ability to make glasses on site, the same day. It is now located at 10 Hospital Commons, with 13 employees and two optometrists, Dr. Michael Campbell Sr. (a graduate of Indiana School of Optometry) and Dr. Michael Berzansky (a graduate of Pennsylvania College of Optometry), to serve your eyecare needs.
With Bluffton’s ensuing growth, a third location was contemplated. After moving his office three times, Dr. Campbell built a state-of-the-art facility in 2016, located at 27 Mellichamp Drive in Old Town Bluffton. Dr. Tara Baideme (graduate of Pennsylvania College of Optometry), who joined the practice in June of 2014, serves that office along with Dr. Michael Campbell Jr. (son of Dr. Campbell Sr. and graduate of Indiana University School of Optometry), who joined the practice in 2020. Both professionals practice a full scope of optometry and enjoy the challenge of difficult contact evaluations.
With three convenient locations, five optometrists, an experienced staff, and a full-service lab, Optical Solutions offers the full package to provide the quality of care you deserve and meet all your eyecare needs.
10 Hospital Center Commons, Suite 100
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 681-6682
50 Shelter Cove Ln., Ste. G
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 785-8008
27 Dr. Mellichamp Dr. Ste 100
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 706-0607
drmichaelcampbell.com
Dr. Terri Hubbard
Coastal Pediatric Dentistry
What is your specialty?
Pediatric dentistry.
Why did you become a physician?
I became a physician because I enjoy giving children a love of going to the dentist and educating them on good oral health.
What inspires you in your practice?
My patients and amazing staff inspire me to deliver the best quality work while creating a fun experience.
What do you do to achieve work/life balance?
I always like to say everyone is given the same 24 hours in a day. I wake up early enough to workout, do my daily devotions, and focus the rest of the day on my patients and prioritizing my family.
What is exciting about your field right now?
The study of the mouth and how it affects sleep patterns. I travel often to attend continuing education seminars to bring the best dental and overall health care to my patients.
What do you do outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my children, travel, and Pilates.
What advice would you give someone who just started their career?
Constantly educate yourself to bring the best care to your patients, and care for every patient as if he or she were your own child.
What is a memory from your career that you will always look back on fondly?
I’ve been blessed to travel and meet amazing people throughout my career, from my patients to colleagues and my staff.
When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time?
I’d probably go for a run.
What skill or craft would you like to master?
I really enjoy fitness and try to set personal goals for myself weekly.
Favorite vacation spot?
Right now, New York and Miami.
10 Arley Way, Unit 102
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 757-7336
coastal-pedo.com
Jennifer Greene
AHC – Affordable Health Care
What is your specialty?
Primary care and medical spa injectables and procedures.
Why did you become a nurse practitioner?
I became an NP out of a desire to help those around me feel well. My passion extended beyond primary care into the field of aesthetics 15 years ago when I began working with patients to help them not only feel their best but look their best.
What inspires you in your practice?
Listening to and diagnosing patients with a wide range of issues. It is incredibly rewarding to discover a previously undiagnosed condition that helps improve a patient’s quality of life. Working in both primary care and aesthetics offers that opportunity daily.
What do you do to achieve work/life balance?
When I leave the office, I LEAVE the office. My greatest joy when I am not at the office is spending time with my daughter. I love to eat good food, spend time outdoors, and travel. I love my work, and I love my life outside of work.
What is exciting about your field right now?
The most exciting area of my practice right now is in the field of aesthetics. The joy of helping people look and feel their best is extremely rewarding. Technological advances in aesthetic procedures allow us to offer incredible results with minimal downtime.
What do you do outside of work?
A number of years ago, I became a certified pilot. When I have the opportunity, I love to fly. When I am looking for something fun to do without leaving the ground, I like to spend time outside, working in the yard, biking, running, and cooking.
When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time?
I like to cook a meal with fresh ingredients, some of which come from my garden, and enjoy eating it with friends and family. There is nothing like a homecooked meal.
What skill or craft would you like to master?
I love to garden, and I love the river. One day, I may get my master gardener certification and my captain’s license.
150 State Street
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 757-5559
Dr. Jim Maginnis, D.M.D., M.S.
Maginnis Orthodontics
What is your specialty?
I’m a professional tooth mover, wire bender, and smile maker (aka an orthodontist). I’ve been practicing orthodontics for nearly 20 years, so I am well-versed and experienced in all aspects of the field, including Invisalign. I’ve completed a fellowship and a masters course in that area and now work with a company that has amazing resources to give my patients the best in Invisalign treatment.
Why did you become a physician?
My dad was a doctor, and I loved the biology and science part but wanted something that was more creative. As a child, I spent a lot of time building model airplanes and Legos. I wanted a career where I could utilize my passion for creativity and science, and where I could also work with people and make a difference.
What inspires you in your practice?
Without a doubt, it’s the results! Creating beautiful smiles that people are proud of is priceless. It’s not uncommon for people to jump up and down, cheer, and be filled with excitement when their braces come off. It’s incredible to be able to make that happen.
What do you do to achieve a work/life balance?
Set boundaries and stick to them! Because I love what I do, I could work all the time. But I also love my family and hobbies, so it’s important to set clear boundaries. Also, bringing on additional, experienced, and talented doctors to my practice helps.
What’s exciting in your field right now?
Enthusiasm for braces is at an all-time high. Braces have changed since the days of 16 Candles and headgear! There are better options for less intrusive, more comfortable and shorter time in treatment. Social media has even managed to make getting braces cool. From TikTok to Insta, braces are everywhere. The colors kids choose helps to keep the experience fun!
What advice would you give someone who is just starting their career?
Work hard. Don’t settle. Don’t let salespeople fool you and trust your gut! Also, find a mentor and surround yourself with others who will help you boost your own performance and learn more.
What is a memory from your career that you will always look back on fondly?
The day I opened my office in Bluffton and the day that we took over practices in South Georgia are big moments for me in my career. These are milestones that I can look back on and celebrate now. Also, when I put braces on my daughter—big moment for me as a father and orthodontist.
What do you do outside of work?
Fishing, paddle boarding, and cooking. And then sleep.
What skill or craft would you like to master?
I would love to learn to play golf well. It’s a time-consuming sport that I haven’t had the chance to get into as much as I would like.
Favorite vacation spot?
I have to list two! New York City because of the experience, food, culture, entertainment, and excitement of the city. But also, we love the Bahamas to sail, snorkel, and have water adventures.
11 Hospital Center Common, Suite 201
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 681-5556
maginnisorthodontics.com
Frederick G Weniger M.D, F.A.C.S. and Carmen A. Traywick, M.D., F.A.A.D.
LUX ~ A Medical Spa
Frederick G Weniger M.D, F.A.C.S
What is your specialty?
Plastic surgery, focused on aesthetics.
Why did you become a physician?
I came from a long line of doctors and eventually had to choose between aviation, investment banking, and medicine. At that time, a priest in my dormitory at Notre Dame made the statement: “Whatever you do in your career, make sure you use it to help people.” I decided that I could use my love for science and my gifts to help people the most in medicine (although my original plan was psychiatry (like my grandpa).
What inspires you in your practice?
From day one, I said we were going to treat patients like family and do well by doing good. Now, my relationships with existing patients, my awesome, hardworking staff of super-women, and my need to stay at the forefront of advances in my specialty all drive me to make sure I keep advancing … to be the absolute best for our patients.
What do you do to achieve work/life balance?
I have become simpler: I just want to spend time with my family. I live for watching their sporting events, vacationing with them, and fishing and hunting with my son and dog.
What is exciting about your field right now?
I think the next big thing is Qwo—the injections we do now for cellulite. This could be a game-changer. Of course, there is a constant stream of “newer” and “better” energy-based skin-tightening devices, which is the holy grail of aesthetics. Tissue engineering, though, probably will change how medicine is practiced.
What do you do outside of work?
I simply like to spend time with my family. I look forward to watching their sporting events more than anything during the week. (They are all better than I ever was.) Also, I am the most content, clear-minded and relaxed when I am fishing or hunting with my son. It’s just not a weekend for me if we don’t get on the water.
What advice would you give someone who just started their career?
(1) Find something you love. (2) Decide what’s most important in your life. (3) Begin with the end in mind (read \(4) Don’t close any doors too early.
What is a memory from your career that you will always look back on fondly?
I absolutely will most miss the fun times and funny things that were said in the office—by staff and patients. Sorry, none of them will make sense if you weren’t there.
What skill or craft would you like to master?
Someday I want to get back into music and flying.
Favorite vacation spot?
I love the Rocky Mountains in the summer. Banff really looks like those pictures, by the way.
Carmen A. Traywick, M.D., FAAD
What is your specialty?
Surgical, medical, and cosmetic dermatology.
What do you do to achieve work/life balance?
I try to limit my work time to days that I am in the office and one administrative day per week. It is a hard balance at this stage with three children. I am not always sure I achieve work/life balance, but I do try.
What is exciting in your field right now?
The most exciting thing in dermatology is the advancement in the detection and care of melanoma. We are diagnosing melanoma much sooner at earlier stages every day. In the hands of a trained dermatologist, dermoscopy is an amazing tool to recognize early skin cancer. This is training that is specific to dermatologists and their staff. In the event of a more advanced melanoma, new advances in immunotherapy have taken a once-deadly disease and made it a manageable disease.
What do you do outside of work?
Most of my time outside of work is with my three daughters. I spend a lot of time watching volleyball matches, soccer games, and ballet performances. I spend a lot of time transporting my girls to gymnastics practice, dance practice, and school sports events. The past five years, I have spent a lot of my time on the Cross Schools’ board of trustees as vice chairman. It is a passion of mine to give back to the community through service to a Christian school.
What advice would you give someone who just started their career?
Realize that medicine or really any career is a lifelong learning process. You won’t know everything from day one. As long as you keep the desire to work hard and continue to strengthen you skills and gain more knowledge, you will succeed.
What is a memory from your career that you will always look back on fondly?
My fondest memory is finding out that I got a position in the dermatology training program at Emory. It was my top choice, and dermatology is one of the hardest programs to be accepted into. It was one of my greatest achievements.-
What skill or craft would you like to master?
I’ve always wanted to learn to be a better golfer. Before I had my three girls, my husband and I used to have more time to play golf. I also would love to learn woodworking. I enjoy creating and using my hands in a productive way.
Favorite vacation spot?
British Virgin Islands.
350 Fording Island Rd.
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 781-6672
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