About
Dr. Michael Rebin Copley 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 a dermatology clinic in Nanaimo, BC, he is a key member of the local medical community. He 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. His approach emphasizes thorough evaluation, personalized treatment, and patient education to ensure optimal skin health outcomes.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Dermatologist. Dr. Copley is also certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, maintaining high standards of professional expertise and clinical competence. His training included extensive postgraduate education and supervised clinical practice, equipping him with the skills necessary to manage complex dermatological cases effectively.
Dr. Copley's clinical philosophy is centered on evidence-based skin care, early detection of skin cancers, and comprehensive patient education on skin health and prevention. He is committed to providing compassionate, personalized care tailored to each patient's unique needs. Fluent in English, he strives to create a supportive environment where patients feel informed and confident in their treatment plans. His goal is to help patients achieve healthy skin through a combination of medical management, preventive strategies, and innovative therapies.
Dr. Michael Copley diagnoses and treats a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including:
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.
- 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.
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.
- Dysplastic Nevi (Atypical Moles): Moles that look different from common moles (larger, irregular borders, varied color) and may have a higher risk of developing into melanoma. Often require monitoring or biopsy.
Acne, Rosacea & Follicular Disorders
- Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Acne Inversa): A chronic, recurrent inflammatory skin condition featuring painful, deep-seated lumps, abscesses, sinus tracts, and scarring, typically in areas where skin rubs together (axillae, groin, under breasts).
- Folliculitis (Bacterial, Fungal, Non-infectious): Inflammation of hair follicles, often caused by infection (e.g., Staph aureus, Malassezia) or irritation, leading to itchy or painful bumps, sometimes with pustules.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific dermatological condition, please consult with Dr. Michael Copley.
- 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.
- Skin Biopsy (Punch, Shave, Excisional, Incisional): Obtaining a small sample of skin under local anesthesia for microscopic examination to diagnose various skin conditions, including infections, inflammatory disorders, and skin cancer. Techniques are chosen based on the suspected condition and lesion characteristics.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Medical-Grade Facials & Skincare Consultations: Professional facial treatments tailored to specific skin concerns and expert advice on developing an optimal at-home skincare regimen using medical-grade products.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview of medical and potentially some cosmetic services. Treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Copley 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.
Dr. Copley's practice is located within a dermatology clinic in Nanaimo's North Nanaimo (Hammond Bay area) neighborhood. The facility is situated in the Country Club Centre, a well-known shopping and medical services hub accessible via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). The location is conveniently accessible by public transportation, and the clinic is equipped to accommodate patients with mobility challenges as the facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at or near the facility, ensuring easy access for patients arriving by car. The clinic environment is designed to be welcoming and comfortable, supporting a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to skin care.
- Are consultations and dermatological treatments with Dr. Copley, a Dermatologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Dermatologist like Dr. Copley, 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. Copley's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) beforehand, especially if there's a potential cosmetic component.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Copley, 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. Copley. 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 are some common medical procedures a Dermatologist like Dr. Copley performs?
- Dermatologists like Dr. Copley perform a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Common medical procedures include skin biopsies (punch, shave, or excisional) to diagnose conditions, cryosurgery (freezing with liquid nitrogen) for warts or precancerous spots (actinic keratoses), surgical excision of skin cancers or benign lesions like cysts and atypical moles, intralesional injections (e.g., for keloids or alopecia areata), and prescribing specialized topical or oral medications (including biologics or immunosuppressants for complex conditions). Many dermatologists also offer phototherapy. Dr. Copley can discuss specific procedures relevant to your condition and may have subspecialty interests influencing the range of procedures offered.
- Dr. Copley 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. Copley's office or self-administered at home) or intravenous (IV) infusion. Dr. Copley would discuss the specific biologic, its benefits, potential side effects, and monitoring requirements if it's a suitable option for you.
302-6545 Portsmouth Rd, Skin Care West
Nanaimo, BC V9V 1A3
Phone: (250) 740-2125 | Fax: (250) 244-4769 | Website: http://skincarewest.com/
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Copley 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. Copley 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/333494/Copley%2CMichael