Background: Many dermatologists have experienced significant changes to their practices due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: It is vital to recognize how the pandemic has affected dermatology practices and identify methods to maximize clinical efficiency while maintaining patient safety. Methods: Private practice dermatologists in metropolitan areas were interviewed regarding various issues, including patient volume, types of visits or procedures being performed, screening for COVID-19, and operational modifications. Results: On average, there was a 65.2% decrease in patient volume during the initial surge of the COVID-19 outbreak, which was improved to a 15.5% decrease in July 2020. Despite this reduction in patient volume, the proportion of acute dermatologic issues, biopsies performed, and skin cancer concerns were all increased compared to pre-COVID. All of the dermatologists reported notable changes in regards to scheduling, staff, operations, and workplaces. Limitations: Interview participants were limited to metropolitan dermatologists mainly within the California region. Conclusion: Improving patient communication, implementing protocols to facilitate social distancing, and utilizing teledermatology were reported to be essential to optimizing efficiency and safety. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, it is important that dermatologists identify specific ways to practice efficiently and effectively, while mitigating the spread of the virus.

Background: Submental fat can be reduced with ATX-101 (deoxycholic acid injection), a customizable and minimally invasive alternative to liposuction. In the years since its approval, the treatment patterns of ATX-101 have evolved. Methods: A panel of experienced physicians from the United States gathered to generate best practices for the use of ATX-101 in submental contouring. Results: The expert panel provided their insights on appropriate patient selection, managing patient expectations of ATX-101 treatment outcomes, and adverse events, and guidance on ATX-101 administration for optimal outcomes are presented here. Conclusion: These best clinical practices on the use of ATX-101 for the reduction of submental fat should enable physicians to enhance the patient treatment experience and outcomes.

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