About
Dr. Tashmeeta Ahad 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 Vancouver, BC, 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 approach emphasizes evidence-based practices within a modern, patient-centered environment, ensuring each individual receives tailored care in a comfortable setting.
Dr. Ahad graduated with a BM BCh from Oxford University Medical School in the United Kingdom. She holds specialty certification as a Dermatologist and is recognized by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), holding license number 36457. Her certifications include additional qualifications acknowledged by the College Registration Committee, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of dermatological care.
With a focus on evidence-based skin care, Dr. Ahad emphasizes patient education on skin health, early detection of skin cancers, and personalized treatment plans. She is dedicated to serving her patients in Vancouver with a compassionate approach, providing care in English. Her clinical philosophy centers on thorough assessment, early intervention, and empowering patients with knowledge to maintain healthy skin and prevent disease.
Dr. Tashmeeta Ahad diagnoses and treats a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including:
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).
- 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.
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.
- Nail Psoriasis: Psoriasis affecting the fingernails and toenails, causing pitting, discoloration (oil drop sign), thickening, onycholysis (separation from bed), and subungual hyperkeratosis.
- Nail Unit Tumors (Benign & Malignant): Various growths that can occur in or around the nail unit, including benign (e.g., glomus tumor, myxoid cyst) and malignant (e.g., squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma) tumors.
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.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific dermatological condition, please consult with Dr. Tashmeeta Ahad.
- Diagnostic Mycology (Fungal Scrapings & Cultures): Collecting skin, hair, or nail samples to identify fungal infections through microscopic examination (e.g., KOH prep) or fungal culture.
- Cyst Excision and Drainage of Abscesses: Surgical removal of various types of skin cysts (e.g., epidermoid, pilar) and incision and drainage for skin abscesses.
- 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.
- 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.
- Dermal Fillers (Hyaluronic Acid, Calcium Hydroxylapatite, PLLA) for Volume Restoration & Contouring: Injectable gels (e.g., Juvederm®, Restylane®, Radiesse®, Sculptra®) used to restore facial volume, smooth out static wrinkles and folds, enhance lip volume, and contour facial features.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy (for Skin Rejuvenation & Hair Loss): Utilizing a concentration of a patient's own platelets to promote tissue repair and regeneration, used for facial rejuvenation (e.g., with microneedling) and to stimulate hair growth in certain types of alopecia.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview of medical and potentially some cosmetic services. Treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Ahad 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. Ahad's practice is located within a dermatology clinic situated in Vancouver's Fairview neighbourhood. The facility is conveniently accessible, being within close proximity to Riley Park (Nat Bailey Stadium) and the Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood. Patients can reach the clinic easily via public transit options provided by TransLink, including SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), buses, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront station). The clinic is fully wheelchair accessible, and parking is available at or near the facility to accommodate visitors arriving by car.
- Are consultations and dermatological treatments with Dr. Ahad, a Dermatologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Dermatologist like Dr. Ahad, 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. Ahad's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) beforehand, especially if there's a potential cosmetic component.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Ahad, 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. Ahad. 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. Ahad 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. Ahad's office or self-administered at home) or intravenous (IV) infusion. Dr. Ahad would discuss the specific biologic, its benefits, potential side effects, and monitoring requirements if it's a suitable option for you.
- When should someone consider seeing a Dermatologist like Dr. Ahad?
- A referral to a Dermatologist like Dr. Ahad 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.
- If Dr. Ahad 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. Ahad 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.
- How often should I see a Dermatologist like Dr. Ahad for skin cancer screening?
- The recommended frequency for skin cancer screenings by a Dermatologist like Dr. Ahad varies based on your individual risk factors. These include a personal or family history of skin cancer (especially melanoma), having many moles (e.g., >50) or atypical moles, fair skin that burns easily, a history of excessive sun exposure or tanning bed use, or a suppressed immune system. Your family doctor can assess your risk, or Dr. Ahad can provide a personalized recommendation after an initial consultation. Regardless of professional check-ups, performing monthly self-skin exams to monitor for any new or changing lesions (using the ABCDEs of melanoma as a guide) is crucial for early detection.
835 10TH Ave W, The Skin Care Centre, UBC Department of Dermatology and Skin Science
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E8
Phone: (604) 875-4682 | Fax: (604) 394-2558
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Ahad 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. Ahad 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/369653/Ahad%2CTashmeeta