Dr. Jennifer Segal is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Metropolitan Dermatology Institute, a private practice located in Houston, TX, where she specializes in cosmetic dermatology, including soft tissue fillers, the neuromodulators Botox and Dysport, chemical peels, and laser treatments. She ·received her M.D. from Duke University School of Medicine in 2002, and completed her residency in 2006. She currently serves on the School of Medicine Board of Visitors.
What made you choose Dermatology as your career path?
All roads led to dermatology for me. I have always had an interest in cancer research and therapy, and this was heightened by my mother’s diagnosis of melanoma. Her dermatologist, Dr. Kathy Fields, an invaluable mentor and friend, encouraged me to pursue dermatology, and I am delighted that I did. In addition to exciting, procedurally based days in clinic and the perfect balance of my two loves, family (my two sons, Ezra and Nathan, are my joy!) and patient care, dermatology has enabled me to treat and educate about the disease that took my mother, which is especially meaningful for me.
What was the best part of training at Duke Derm?
There are many great things about my training at Duke Derm, but by far the best part was getting to train with my wonderful co-resident, Dr. Scott Smith! We have now worked together in Houston for nine years.
What are you most proud of from your time at Duke Derm?
I am proud of the standard of care that was instilled in me and developed during my time at Duke. While many systems, procedures, protocols and therapies have changed over the years, my commitment to excellence in patient care and my ability to achieve that because of my training at Duke remain constant.
Describe the characteristics of the people with whom you most enjoyed working at Duke Derm?
The opportunity to train with the attendings I worked with at Duke has been invaluable. I draw on their examples every day, and I am truly grateful. In addition to performing at the highest level of expertise in their fields, the faculty who shaped my training at Duke are characterized by clinical and academic integrity, dedication to patient care, and moral character.
How do you envision your continued engagement with Duke Derm?
It gives me great pleasure to have the opportunity to give back to Duke Dermatology in any way I can. I am very excited about the opportunity to work with the Duke residents in the years ahead.
What advice do you have for current trainees and students considering a career in Dermatology?
Work hard and take it all in. The opportunity to train at Duke is very special. Don’t leave early. As I always tell my sons, show up (on time), work hard, and say thank you. Duke training can influence your life in wonderful and important ways—it certainly has done so for me.