Dr. Lorne Eric Albrecht – Dermatologist | Surrey, BC

Dr. Lorne Eric Albrecht 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 Lorne Albrecht Clinic Surrey in Surrey, BC, he is a key member of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive medical and surgical dermatological care for a variety of skin, hair, and nail issues, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer detection. His approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine delivered in a compassionate and professional environment, utilizing modern diagnostic tools and therapeutic options.

He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Alberta in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Dermatologist. Dr. Albrecht has obtained certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring adherence to rigorous standards of medical excellence and patient safety. His ongoing commitment to professional development ensures that he remains current with advances in dermatological research and treatment modalities.

Dr. Albrecht’s clinical philosophy centers on providing personalized, patient-centered care that emphasizes early detection, prevention, and education. He is dedicated to guiding his patients in Surrey through evidence-based skin care practices and tailored treatment plans, aiming to optimize skin health and overall well-being. He communicates fluently in English and strives to foster a trusting and informative relationship with each patient, ensuring they are well-informed and comfortable throughout their care journey.

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

Acne, Rosacea & Follicular Disorders

• Hormonal Acne / Adult Female Acne: Acne linked to fluctuations in hormones, often presenting in adult women along the jawline, chin, and neck, and may persist beyond teenage years.
• Keratosis Pilaris: A common, harmless condition causing small, rough bumps on the skin, usually on the upper arms, thighs, cheeks, or buttocks, due to keratin buildup in hair follicles.
• Acne Scars (Atrophic, Hypertrophic, Keloidal): Permanent textural changes and indentations (atrophic), raised scars (hypertrophic), or overgrown scars (keloidal) that can result from severe or picked acne.

Hair & Scalp Disorders

• Androgenetic Alopecia (Male/Female Pattern Hair Loss): A common hereditary form of hair loss characterized by a receding hairline and thinning crown in men, and diffuse thinning over the top of the scalp in women.
• 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.

Skin Cancers, Precancerous Lesions & Benign Growths

• Seborrheic Keratosis: Common, benign (non-cancerous) skin growths that often appear waxy, scaly, and slightly raised. Can vary in color from light tan to black.
• 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).
• Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis): A rough, scaly patch on sun-exposed skin that is considered precancerous and can sometimes progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.

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

• Botulinum Toxin Injections (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®) for Wrinkles & Hyperhidrosis: Injectable treatments to temporarily relax facial muscles and reduce dynamic wrinkles (e.g., frown lines, crow's feet, forehead lines), or to treat excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).
• Nail Disorder Treatment (Fungal Infections, Psoriasis, Lichen Planus, Ingrown Nails, Tumors): Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the nails, including infections, inflammatory disorders (like nail psoriasis or lichen planus), structural abnormalities, ingrown nails, and benign or malignant nail unit tumors.
• 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.
• Patch Testing for Allergic Contact Dermatitis (Standard & Expanded Panels): Diagnostic procedure to identify specific allergens causing contact dermatitis by applying small amounts of common (and sometimes occupational or specialized) allergens to the skin.
• Scar Revision Surgery & Keloid Treatment (Surgical, Intralesional Injections): Procedures to improve the appearance of scars or treat problematic keloid scars, which may involve surgical excision, steroid injections, or other modalities.
• Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis Management (Topical, Phototherapy, Systemic, Biologics, JAK inhibitors): Comprehensive management of psoriasis (plaque, guttate, pustular, erythrodermic) and associated psoriatic arthritis, using topical treatments, narrowband UVB or PUVA phototherapy, oral systemic medications (e.g., methotrexate, cyclosporine), and advanced biologic therapies or JAK inhibitors targeting specific immune pathways.
• Treatment for Skin Infections (Bacterial, Fungal, Viral, Parasitic): Diagnosis and treatment of various skin infections, such as impetigo, cellulitis, erysipelas, ringworm (tinea), athlete's foot, nail fungus (onychomycosis), warts, molluscum contagiosum, herpes simplex/zoster, and scabies.

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

Lorne Albrecht Clinic Surrey is situated in the West Newton area of Surrey, BC, within the vibrant Strawberry Hill neighbourhood. The practice is conveniently located near the Historic Cloverdale Town Centre and the Langley Border, making it accessible for patients across the region. Public transit options include TransLink’s SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus services, providing easy access for those using public transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, facilitating convenient arrival for appointments in a welcoming environment dedicated to quality dermatological care.

Are consultations and dermatological treatments with Dr. Albrecht, a Dermatologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Dermatologist like Dr. Albrecht, 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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. Albrecht's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) beforehand, especially if there's a potential cosmetic component.

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

Dr. Albrecht mentioned biologics. What are they for skin conditions?

Biologic medications are a newer class of treatments for moderate to severe inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema (atopic dermatitis), and hidradenitis suppurativa, when other treatments haven't been effective enough. Unlike traditional systemic drugs that suppress the broader immune system, biologics are proteins engineered to target very specific parts of the immune system that cause inflammation in these diseases. They are usually given by injection (either by Dr. Albrecht's office or self-administered at home) or intravenous (IV) infusion. Dr. Albrecht would discuss the specific biologic, its benefits, potential side effects, and monitoring requirements if it's a suitable option for you.

If Dr. Albrecht 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. Albrecht 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 are the general risks and benefits of cosmetic procedures Dr. Albrecht might offer?

The benefits of cosmetic procedures offered by a qualified Dermatologist like Dr. Albrecht 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. Albrecht 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.

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

A referral to a Dermatologist like Dr. Albrecht 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.

Lorne Albrecht Clinic Surrey
603-13737 96 Ave
Surrey, BC V3V 0C6

Phone: (604) 343-1113 | Fax: (604) 343-1116 | Website: http://www.skinfitmd.com/

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Albrecht is a licensed Dermatologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Albrecht 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/304368/Albrecht%2CLorne