Dr. Geneviève Chouinard – Dermatologist | Châteauguay, QC

Dr. Geneviève Chouinard is a dedicated Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide array of conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails in adult patients, and may see older children for certain conditions. Practicing at Hôpital Anna-Laberge in Châteauguay, QC, she is a key member of the local medical community. She provides comprehensive medical and surgical dermatological care for a wide variety of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer detection. Her practice emphasizes evidence-based care delivered in a compassionate and professional environment, utilizing modern diagnostic tools and therapeutic options.

Dr. Chouinard holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has over 4 years of experience practicing as a Dermatologist since 2020. She has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice dermatology (Comprehensive Care for Skin, Hair, and Nail Conditions) in QC. Her qualifications ensure she is well-equipped to address a broad spectrum of dermatological concerns with expertise and dedication.

Her clinical philosophy centers on providing patient-centered, evidence-based skin care, emphasizing patient education on skin health and prevention. Dr. Chouinard is committed to early detection and management of skin cancers, fostering a collaborative approach to care tailored to each individual's needs. She speaks fluent French and is dedicated to serving the community of Châteauguay with compassionate, personalized dermatological services.

Dr. Geneviève Chouinard diagnoses and treats a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including:

Nail Disorders (Onychopathies)

• Nail Psoriasis: Psoriasis affecting the fingernails and toenails, causing pitting, discoloration (oil drop sign), thickening, onycholysis (separation from bed), and subungual hyperkeratosis.
• Beau's Lines & Other Nail Dystrophies: Transverse depressions in the nails (Beau's lines) or other changes in nail texture or appearance that can indicate systemic illness, trauma, or nutritional deficiencies.

Inflammatory & Immune-Mediated Skin Conditions

• Eczema (Atopic, Contact, Seborrheic, Discoid, Asteatotic): A group of chronic conditions causing itchy, inflamed, and often dry skin. Types vary in appearance and common locations, triggered by genetics, allergens, irritants, or other factors.
• Dermatomyositis: An inflammatory disease marked by muscle weakness and a distinctive skin rash, often on the face, eyelids (heliotrope rash), knuckles (Gottron's papules), and chest.

Skin Cancers, Precancerous Lesions & Benign Growths

• Melanoma: The most serious type of skin cancer, developing in melanocytes. Early detection is crucial. Look for asymmetry, irregular borders, color variation, diameter >6mm, and evolving moles (ABCDEs).
• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer, typically slow-growing and arising from sun-exposed skin, appearing as a pearly or waxy bump, flat flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion, or a bleeding/scabbing sore.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific dermatological condition, please consult with Dr. Geneviève Chouinard.

• Excision of Benign Lesions (Moles/Nevi, Cysts, Lipomas, Skin Tags, Seborrheic Keratoses): Surgical removal of non-cancerous skin growths for medical reasons (e.g., irritation, inflammation) or cosmetic purposes, with pathological examination if indicated.
• Phototherapy (Narrowband UVB, Broadband UVB, PUVA, Excimer Laser): Controlled administration of specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light to treat various skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.
• Hidradenitis Suppurativa Management (Medical, Interventional, Biologics): Medical (antibiotics, retinoids), interventional (incision & drainage, deroofing), and biologic therapy for a chronic inflammatory skin condition causing painful lumps, abscesses, and sinus tracts in skin folds.
• Nail Surgery (e.g., Ingrown Toenail Removal/Matrixectomy, Nail Biopsy, Tumor Excision): Surgical procedures to treat painful or diseased nails, including permanent correction of ingrown toenails or removal of nail unit tumors.
• Acne Vulgaris & Acne Rosacea Treatment (Topical, Oral, Systemic, including Isotretinoin): Management of acne and rosacea, including blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, cysts, and facial redness, using a range of treatments from topical creams and gels to oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies, and isotretinoin for severe or recalcitrant acne.
• Surgical Excision of Skin Cancers (Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma) with Margin Control: Complete surgical removal of malignant skin tumors with appropriate microscopic or clinical margins to ensure clearance, often followed by reconstructive closure.
• Body Contouring & Skin Tightening (e.g., Cryolipolysis, Radiofrequency, Ultrasound): Non-invasive or minimally invasive procedures designed to reduce localized fat deposits (e.g., CoolSculpting®) or tighten lax skin on the face and body (e.g., Thermage®, Ultherapy®).

Note: This list provides a general overview of medical and potentially some cosmetic services. Treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Chouinard for care relevant to your specific condition. Coverage for services varies; medically necessary treatments are typically covered by provincial health plans, while cosmetic procedures are usually self-pay.

All medical and surgical services (if applicable) are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant dermatological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Hôpital Anna-Laberge, situated in Châteauguay's areas near central Châteauguay, serves as a vital medical facility providing specialized dermatological care. The hospital's dermatology unit is easily accessible from various parts of the city and surrounding regions, with convenient public transit options available through local bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring all patients can access care comfortably. Parking is available at or near the hospital, facilitating easy arrival for patients seeking expert skin care in a welcoming environment.

Are consultations and dermatological treatments with Dr. Chouinard, a Dermatologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Dermatologist like Dr. Chouinard, diagnostic procedures (e.g., skin biopsies), and treatments for provincially insured skin conditions (e.g., psoriasis, severe eczema, skin cancer, infections) are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC when a referral from a family doctor is in place. Purely cosmetic procedures (e.g., Botox for wrinkles, most laser hair removal, fillers for aesthetic enhancement) are typically not covered and are self-pay. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed treatment with Dr. Chouinard's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) beforehand, especially if there's a potential cosmetic component.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Chouinard, a Dermatologist?

Yes, for medically necessary dermatological care covered by the provincial health plan, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (e.g., an ER doctor for an acute issue) is almost always required to see a Dermatologist such as Dr. Chouinard. This ensures coordinated care and that your visit is appropriate for specialist assessment. Some dermatologists may offer consultations for uninsured cosmetic services without a referral, but these would be a direct cost to you. Always check with the clinic regarding their specific referral policy.

What is the difference between a Dermatologist and an Esthetician?

A Dermatologist, like Dr. Dr. Chouinard, is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed medical school followed by several years of specialized residency training in dermatology. They are qualified to diagnose and treat over 3,000 diseases of the skin, hair, and nails, prescribe medications, perform surgical procedures (like skin cancer removal), and manage complex skin conditions. An Esthetician (or Aesthetician) is a skincare professional trained in cosmetic skin treatments and services that improve the appearance of the skin, such as facials, superficial chemical peels, microdermabrasion, waxing, and makeup application. They are not medical doctors and cannot diagnose skin diseases, prescribe medications, or perform medical or surgical procedures.

If Dr. Chouinard recommends phototherapy, what does that involve?

Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, is a medical treatment where your skin is exposed to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light under strict medical supervision. Dr. Chouinard might recommend it for conditions like psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, or cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Treatments are typically given 2-3 times a week in a specialized light cabinet or with a handheld device for smaller areas. The type of UV light (e.g., Narrowband UVB, PUVA) and treatment duration are carefully controlled. It works by reducing inflammation and slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells. You'll be given specific instructions, including eye protection.

What kind of sunscreen does Dr. Chouinard recommend?

While specific brand recommendations can vary, Dr. Chouinard would likely advise choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher. For daily use, a lighter formulation might be preferred, while for prolonged outdoor activities, water-resistant sunscreen is important. Consider your skin type: individuals with sensitive skin might prefer mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. The most important thing is to apply sunscreen generously and reapply it every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. Dr. Chouinard can provide personalized recommendations based on your skin type and lifestyle during your consultation.

Hôpital Anna-Laberge
200 boul Brisebois
Châteauguay, QC J6K 4W8

Phone: (450) 699-2425

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Chouinard is a licensed Dermatologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Chouinard for medically necessary services covered by the provincial health plan. Cosmetic consultations may have different requirements.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=20730