Dr. Lara Kathryn Gunton – Dermatologist | Welland, ON

Dr. Lara Kathryn Gunton is a dedicated Dermatologist practicing at Brampton Civic Hospital in Welland, ON. She specializes in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions in adult patients, and may see older children for certain dermatological concerns. Her practice is committed to providing comprehensive, evidence-based medical and surgical dermatological care within a modern, patient-centered setting. Dr. Gunton adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that all care delivered meets the highest professional and ethical benchmarks. Her focus encompasses both common and complex skin, hair, and nail disorders, including skin cancer detection, inflammatory skin diseases, and cosmetic concerns.

She earned her Medical Degree from The Flinders University of South Australia, Australia, and has over 10 years of experience as a practicing Dermatologist since 2014. Dr. Gunton is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her advanced training and expertise in dermatology. Her ongoing commitment to professional development ensures she remains current with the latest advances in skin care and treatment modalities, offering her patients innovative and effective options.

Driven by a philosophy of patient-centered care, Dr. Gunton emphasizes evidence-based treatments, patient education on skin health and prevention, and early detection of skin cancers. She strives to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs and circumstances, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel informed and empowered. Dr. Gunton provides care exclusively in English and is dedicated to serving the Welland community with compassion and professionalism.

Dr. Lara Gunton 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.
• Paronychia (Acute & Chronic): Inflammation or infection of the skin fold around the fingernails or toenails, causing redness, swelling, and pain. Can be acute (bacterial) or chronic (often fungal or irritant-related).
• Lichen Planus of the Nails: Nail involvement in lichen planus, which can cause thinning, ridging, splitting, pterygium formation (scarring from nail fold to bed), or even nail loss.

Inflammatory & Immune-Mediated Skin Conditions

• Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (Discoid, Subacute, Acute): Skin manifestations of lupus, an autoimmune disease, which can range from scaly, disc-shaped lesions to widespread rashes triggered by sun exposure.
• Dermatitis Herpetiformis: An intensely itchy, blistering rash often associated with celiac disease (gluten sensitivity), typically appearing on elbows, knees, buttocks, and scalp.

Hair & Scalp Disorders

• Seborrheic Dermatitis of the Scalp (Dandruff): A common condition causing scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff on the scalp. Can also affect oily areas of the body.
• Traction Alopecia: Hair loss caused by prolonged or repetitive tension on the hair follicles, often due to tight hairstyles (braids, ponytails, extensions).

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

• Management of Autoimmune Skin Diseases (Lupus, Dermatomyositis, Pemphigus, Pemphigoid, Vasculitis): Diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune connective tissue diseases with skin manifestations and autoimmune blistering diseases, often in collaboration with rheumatologists or other specialists. May involve topical, oral, or biologic therapies.
• 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.
• Hair Loss (Alopecia) Evaluation & Treatment (Androgenetic, Areata, Telogen Effluvium, Scarring Alopecias): Investigating causes of hair loss (including scalp examination, hair pull tests, biopsies) and providing medical treatments for conditions like male/female pattern baldness, alopecia areata (including intralesional steroids, topical immunotherapy), telogen effluvium, and various forms of scarring alopecia.
• Interpretation of Dermatopathology Reports & Second Opinions: Expert analysis of skin biopsy results to confirm diagnoses, guide treatment strategies, and provide second opinions on complex dermatopathology cases.
• Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy) & Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling: Procedures that create controlled micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production, improving skin texture, reducing scars (acne, surgical), fine lines, and stretch marks. RF Microneedling combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy for enhanced skin tightening and rejuvenation.
• 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.
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery for High-Risk Skin Cancers: Specialized surgical technique for removing complex or high-risk skin cancers (especially on the head, neck, hands, feet, genitals) with maximal tissue preservation by examining 100% of the surgical margin intraoperatively.

Note: This list provides a general overview of medical and potentially some cosmetic services. Treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Gunton 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 College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant dermatological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Brampton Civic Hospital is situated in the South Welland neighborhood of Dain City, Welland, ON. The hospital serves as a vital medical facility within the region, featuring a specialized dermatology unit where Dr. Gunton provides expert skin care. The hospital's location is conveniently accessible from Welland Canal Bridge 13 and the Welland Public Library Main Branch, making it easy for patients to reach. Public transit routes operated by Niagara Region Transit (NRT) and Welland Transit services are available nearby, ensuring convenient access. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at or near the hospital to facilitate easy arrival for patients attending appointments.

Are consultations and dermatological treatments with Dr. Gunton, a Dermatologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Dermatologist like Dr. Gunton, 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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. Gunton's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) beforehand, especially if there's a potential cosmetic component.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Gunton, 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. Gunton. 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.

When should someone consider seeing a Dermatologist like Dr. Gunton?

A referral to a Dermatologist like Dr. Gunton is often recommended by a family physician for: any new or changing moles or skin growths; persistent or severe skin rashes (e.g., eczema, psoriasis) not responding to initial treatments; severe or cystic acne; chronic hives; significant hair loss or scalp disorders; problematic nail conditions (e.g., persistent fungal infections, unusual changes); suspected skin infections; or for expert skin cancer screening, especially if you have risk factors like a personal or family history of skin cancer, numerous moles, or significant sun exposure. Early consultation can be key for effective management and diagnosis.

What is the difference between a Dermatologist and an Esthetician?

A Dermatologist, like Dr. Gunton, is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed medical school followed by 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 that improve appearance, such as facials, superficial chemical peels, microdermabrasion, waxing, and makeup application. They are not medical doctors and cannot diagnose skin diseases or perform medical or surgical procedures.

How should I prepare for my first dermatology appointment with Dr. Gunton?

To make the most of your first visit with Dr. Gunton, it's helpful to: 1. Make a list of your skin concerns, symptoms (e.g., itch, pain, duration), and any treatments you've already tried (both prescription and over-the-counter). 2. Bring a list of all your current medications, including vitamins and supplements. 3. Be prepared to discuss your personal and family medical history, including any history of skin cancer or significant skin conditions. 4. For a full skin exam, wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to remove and avoid wearing makeup or nail polish. 5. If your concern involves a rash that comes and goes, taking clear photos when it's visible can be very helpful. 6. Write down any questions you have for Dr. Gunton.

What are the general risks and benefits of cosmetic procedures Dr. Gunton might offer?

The benefits of cosmetic procedures offered by a qualified Dermatologist like Dr. Gunton can include improvement in skin appearance, texture, tone, reduction of wrinkles or scars, and enhanced self-confidence. However, all procedures carry some risks. Common risks for minimally invasive cosmetic treatments (like injectables or lasers) can include temporary redness, swelling, bruising, pain, or itching at the treatment site. Less common risks might include infection, allergic reaction, changes in skin pigmentation, or unsatisfactory results. More invasive procedures have different risk profiles. Dr. Gunton will discuss the specific risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of any proposed cosmetic procedure in detail during your consultation to help you make an informed decision.

If Dr. Gunton 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. Gunton 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.

Brampton Civic Hospital
555 Prince Charles Dr. North
Welland, ON L3C 6B5

Phone: (905) 732-4224 | Fax: (905) 227-9889

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Gunton is a licensed Dermatologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Gunton for medically necessary services covered by the provincial health plan. Cosmetic consultations may have different requirements.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Gunton-Lara-Kathryn/0258530-90619