Dr Elise Plauche Barnett

I would not recommend this practice based on my personal experience. At my initial visit, Dr. Barnett diagnosed me with CCCA based on a visual examination. I was told that she sees this condition frequently and that it is common among African American women. No scalp biopsy was performed before I was given the diagnosis and began receiving steroid injections. I trusted the diagnosis at the time, but as treatment continued I became increasingly uncomfortable with the steroid injections. I specifically asked whether the injections could be changed or whether there were other treatment options available, and I was told no. I left those conversations feeling dismissed rather than feeling that my concerns were being fully considered. Because I was uncomfortable continuing that course of treatment, I ultimately left the practice and sought care elsewhere. I was then offered another treatment approach that did not require the same steroid injections. What is most concerning to me is what… happened afterward. A scalp biopsy was eventually performed by another provider, and the pathology showed androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium rather than CCCA. I had spent months believing that I had a scarring form of alopecia and undergoing treatment based on that diagnosis. I understand that physicians can have different clinical opinions and that diagnoses can change. However, when conditions involving hair loss can overlap, I believe patients deserve a thorough diagnostic process before being given a serious diagnosis and placed on ongoing treatment. In my case, I continue to question why objective diagnostic testing was not pursued before the diagnosis and treatment plan were presented to me with such certainty. This experience caused me significant emotional distress and ultimately led me to seek care elsewhere. I wish I had obtained a second opinion much sooner. Based on my experience, anyone diagnosed with CCCA or another form of scarring alopecia should ask detailed questions, discuss whether a biopsy is appropriate, and seek another opinion if they do not feel their concerns are being heard.

Excellent, careful Doctor

Dr. Lirette took a great deal of time explaining the procedure. She was both professional and friendly; she put me at ease right away.I look much younger and have received many compliments on my "rested" appearance.