Purnima Sau, MD in Baltimore: Dermatologist Focused on Adult Medical and Cosmetic Skin Care

Purnella Sau, MD operates a medical and cosmetic dermatology practice in Baltimore serving adults with conditions ranging from acne and psoriasis to skin cancer screening and injectables. The practice emphasizes both treatment and prevention, accepting most major insurance plans and offering same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns, which sets it apart in a specialty often characterized by six-to-eight-week waits.

What this practice actually is

Dr. Sau holds board certification in dermatology and runs a patient-focused practice that balances the diagnosis and management of inflammatory and neoplastic skin conditions with cosmetic services. The practice is geared toward adults; it does not treat pediatric dermatology. Unlike hospital-based dermatology departments, this is an independent clinic where appointments tend to be longer and consultation-focused, and where cosmetic work is integrated into the same visit structure as medical care rather than siloed into a separate aesthetic clinic.

Medical services and insurance

The practice handles acne (including prescription retinoids and isotretinoin referrals), eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections, rosacea, skin cancer screening, and removal of benign and suspicious lesions. Dr. Sau accepts Aetna, Anthem (Blue Cross Blue Shield), Cigna, and Medicare; patients should confirm their specific plan before booking. Copays for office visits typically run $20 to $50 depending on insurance and whether the visit is established or new-patient; verification is recommended as plans vary. Most insurance plans will not cover cosmetic services, so those are billed separately and discussed at the consultation.

Cosmetic services and pricing

Services include Botox, dermal fillers, laser skin resurfacing, and chemical peels. Botox runs approximately $12 to $15 per unit in the Baltimore area; full treatment for forehead, crows' feet, and frown lines usually costs $250 to $400. Dermal filler (Juvederm, Restylane) starts at roughly $600 to $800 per syringe depending on brand and area treated. Laser and chemical peel pricing depends on area size and downtime; consultation is required for an exact quote. These prices are in line with cosmetic dermatology in Baltimore but can vary; confirm current rates at booking.

How it compares to Baltimore dermatology options

Baltimore dermatology is served by hospital-affiliated groups (Johns Hopkins, MedStar, University of Maryland), large private practices with multiple providers, and smaller independent dermatologists. Hospital systems offer subspecialty depth and research access but often have longer appointment lead times (4 to 8 weeks for routine visits) and more limited same-day availability. Large groups (such as those affiliated with major insurance networks) can schedule faster but may have less continuity with a single provider. Dr. Sau's practice sits in the independent single-provider segment, which typically offers shorter waits, more face time, and consistent care with one dermatologist, but fewer resources for highly specialized or emergent problems. Choose a hospital system if you suspect skin cancer and need rapid biopsy and oncology coordination, or if you have a rare condition requiring subspecialty input. Choose a large practice group if you need quick access and flexibility across multiple providers. Choose this practice if you value continuity, shorter appointment lead times, and integrated cosmetic counseling in a medical visit.

Who it suits and who it does not suit

This practice is well-suited to adults with straightforward to moderate skin conditions seeking a consistent provider and those interested in cosmetic work without a separate aesthetic referral. Patients who prefer same-day or rapid-turnaround appointments and longer initial consultations will find the independent model advantageous. It is not ideal for pediatric dermatology, severely immunocompromised patients requiring hospital-level backup, or those seeking a large subspecialty team. Patients without insurance or with plans Dr. Sau does not accept will need to confirm coverage before scheduling.

What the first visit involves

New patients should plan 45 to 60 minutes for the initial appointment. Dr. Sau performs a full-body skin exam and takes a detailed history of skin symptoms, sun exposure, medication use, and family dermatology history. If cosmetic services are of interest, that conversation typically happens in the same visit. A biopsy may be performed if any lesion warrants it. Prescriptions (retinoids, antibiotics, topical steroids) are written as needed, and follow-up scheduling depends on diagnosis; routine monitoring is often 6 to 12 months, while active conditions may require shorter intervals.

Hours, parking, and logistics

Confirm hours of operation and whether weekend or evening appointments are available by calling directly, as independent practices vary. Street and lot parking options in the area should be verified at booking. Most visits can be completed in one appointment; prescription refills and results follow-up may be handled by phone or patient portal.

Dr. Sau's practice fills a gap between large impersonal dermatology systems and hard-to-reach specialists, making it a practical choice for Baltimore adults seeking steady, accessible skin care.