Dr. Paul Andrew Lubitz 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 Art Of Skin - Comprehensive Dermatology, Laser and Cosmetic Surgery in Canmore, AB, he is a key member of the local medical community. He adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring the delivery of safe and effective dermatological care. Dr. Lubitz provides comprehensive medical and surgical dermatological care for a broad spectrum of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer detection. His practice emphasizes a patient-centered approach, combining evidence-based medicine with compassionate care to meet the unique needs of each individual.
He holds a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Queen's University in Canada and is certified as a Dermatologist with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCPC). Additionally, he holds the license issued by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) with license number 12744, which authorizes him to practice medicine within the province. His certifications attest to his specialized training and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of dermatological expertise.
Dr. Lubitz's clinical philosophy centers on providing evidence-based skin care, emphasizing patient education on skin health and prevention. He is dedicated to early detection and management of skin cancers, advocating for regular skin examinations and personalized treatment plans. Fluent in English and French, he communicates clearly and compassionately with his patients in Canmore, ensuring they feel informed and supported throughout their care journey. His goal is to improve skin health and quality of life through tailored, effective interventions and ongoing patient education.
Dr. Paul Lubitz diagnoses and treats a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including:
Inflammatory & Immune-Mediated Skin Conditions
- Rosacea (Erythematotelangiectatic, Papulopustular, Phymatous, Ocular): A common skin condition that causes redness, visible blood vessels, flushing, and sometimes small, red, pus-filled bumps on the face. Can also affect the eyes.
- Dermatitis Herpetiformis: An intensely itchy, blistering rash often associated with celiac disease (gluten sensitivity), typically appearing on elbows, knees, buttocks, and scalp.
Nail Disorders (Onychopathies)
- Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection): A common infection of the toenails or fingernails by fungi, causing discoloration, thickening, brittleness, and separation from the nail bed.
- 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.
Skin Cancers, Precancerous Lesions & Benign Growths
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): A common form of skin cancer developing in the squamous cells. Often appears as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface on sun-exposed areas. Can grow more rapidly than BCC.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific dermatological condition, please consult with Dr. Paul Lubitz.
- 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.
- Teledermatology Consultations (for select conditions & follow-ups): Remote dermatological consultations using secure digital imaging and communication technologies for initial assessment of certain conditions or for follow-up care, enhancing accessibility.
- 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.
- Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating) Treatment (Topical, Oral, Botulinum Toxin): Management options for excessive sweating of the underarms, palms, or soles, including prescription antiperspirants, oral medications, and botulinum toxin injections.
- 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.
- 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®).
- 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. Lubitz 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant dermatological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Art Of Skin - Comprehensive Dermatology, Laser and Cosmetic Surgery is conveniently situated in Canmore's vibrant area near central Canmore. The practice is accessible via local public transit, making it easy for patients from various parts of the town and surrounding communities to reach. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Ample parking options are available, including metered street parking and nearby parking lots, to accommodate visitors. The practice is located close to local points of interest and is easily reachable for residents and visitors alike, fostering a welcoming environment for comprehensive skin care.
- Are consultations and dermatological treatments with Dr. Lubitz, a Dermatologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Dermatologist like Dr. Lubitz, 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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. Lubitz's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) beforehand, especially if there's a potential cosmetic component.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Lubitz, 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. Lubitz. 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. Lubitz 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. Lubitz's office or self-administered at home) or intravenous (IV) infusion. Dr. Lubitz would discuss the specific biologic, its benefits, potential side effects, and monitoring requirements if it's a suitable option for you.
- What is the difference between a Dermatologist and an Esthetician?
- A Dermatologist, like Dr. Lubitz, 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.
- What does a Dermatologist like Dr. Lubitz specialize in?
- A Dermatologist, such as Dr. Lubitz, is a medical doctor with highly specialized training in diagnosing and treating over 3,000 conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails in patients of all ages – from newborns to seniors. This includes a wide spectrum of diseases from common issues like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, to more complex conditions like skin cancer, autoimmune skin disorders (e.g., lupus, pemphigus), severe allergic reactions, and genetic skin diseases. He is a Dermatologist specializing in the comprehensive medical and surgical care of skin, hair, and nail conditions. Dr. Lubitz offers various medical, surgical, and potentially cosmetic treatments depending on their practice focus.
- What are some common medical procedures a Dermatologist like Dr. Lubitz performs?
- Dermatologists like Dr. Lubitz 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. Lubitz can discuss specific procedures relevant to your condition and may have subspecialty interests influencing the range of procedures offered.
Art Of Skin - Comprehensive Dermatology, Laser and Cosmetic Surgery
204-1240 Railway Ave, Art of SKIN Dermatology and DermaSurgery
Canmore, AB T1W 1P4
Phone: (403) 675-0018 | Fax: (403) 675-0042 | Website: https://www.artofskin.ca/
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Lubitz is a licensed Dermatologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Lubitz 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=0f0abe19-7395-4a7b-96fd-35a8f1ee084a&i=889