After his unique birthmark was misdiagnosed and mistreated, Dr Ranjan Pillay developed an interest in skin that has persisted throughout his life.

Now a seasoned dermatologist with a sub-specialty in skin cancer surgery, Dr Pillay is living out his passion by ensuring his patients get the most out of their skin.

That dedication to his craft is evidenced by a first-placed finish in this year’s Best of Ballito Readers’ Choice Awards, in the Best Dermatologist category.

Originally from Port Elizabeth, he grew up in Durban as the son of a well-known general practitioner and never wavered from a career in medicine. Dr Pillay studied locally and internationally and quickly confirmed his focus on dermatology after doing a rotation into the specialty during his training.

“The skin can also be a ‘window’ into underlying conditions, and it is very stimulating to be able to help someone through early diagnosis.”

Dr Pillay has well established practices in both Port Shepstone and Scottburgh and recently expanded to Ballito.

“My family lives in Ballito and I have slowly been making a move back towards my mom’s cooking!” he said.

“I love the outdoor nature of the North Coast community and the progressive nature of the medical fraternity which supports my work outlook.”

KwaZulu-Natal’s coastal communities also have an outsized need for dermatology given the unfortunate prevalence of skin cancers.

“Prevention is always better, but I am also skilled in surgery as needed, with a focus on minimally invasive options that prioritise natural-looking results.”

“When I’m not working, I enjoy spending outdoor time with loved ones and the man of the house – my English bulldog Mafuta!”

You can find Skin MD Dermatology at the Odyssey Medical Centre, 1 Simbithi Drive, Ballito. Contact them at skinmddermatology@gmail.com or 078 477 0085.

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