WD Spotlight: Melinda Conroy, D.O.

Dr. Mindy Conroy is a board certified dermatologist that joined our team of physicians in 2010. Dr. Conroy sees patients at our Lakeway clinic. She recently shared with us what she enjoys most about the field of dermatology and living in Austin.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A DERMATOLOGIST?

I initially became interested in dermatology because I dealt with awful acne in high school and college. I had a great dermatologist in New Jersey that helped me clear my skin. This meant so much to me that I wanted to be a part of that process for other people. I always loved science and making people feel good about themselves, so medical school seemed like a natural fit for me. I later realized in medical school that dermatology offers diversity. Diversity in ages of patients and a mix of medicine and procedures.  It warms my heart to have not one but several generations entrust me with the care of their skin.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PROCEDURE TO PERFORM AND WHY?

I really like everything I do, from warts to skin cancer surgery. I never get tired of hearing “was that it?” or “that was easy” from my patients when performing some of these minor procedures. Skin cancer removals take slightly longer, however, it really gives patients a nice window to talk. I enjoy listening to their stories or sometimes addressing questions concerning optimal skin health.

In the cosmetic realm, Botox, fillers, and lasers are so exciting. These minimally invasive techniques can have beautiful impacts on people’s looks. I love and respect the artistry of these procedures. I like to accentuate the individual beauty each patient has so they feel like the best versions of themselves.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING WHEN YOU ARE NOT AT WORK?

When I am not working I really enjoy spending time with my family: my husband Steve, son Nathan (4) and daughter Chloe (almost 1).  My niece Gianna (12) lives close by and gets to do a lot of sleepovers at our house. She is a good helper with the little ones. My husband works as an ER Doctor with Seton & Dell Children’s, so his schedule is very varied. Besides work, he spends his time training and competing in IRONMAN races. It is really just fantastic when he is off for an entire weekend. We make chocolate chip pancakes and lounge around in pajamas.

Recently I have become better about crowbarring in some workout time for myself. My small goal is to run the Turkey Trot this year with the family.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO TRAVEL TO?

Since having the little ones our traveling is pretty limited. My husband and I were blessed to get away by ourselves recently to Healdsburg, California. We have been there several times. It offers beautiful scenery, great wines and good weather. I also really enjoyed the family vacation we took to Charleston, South Carolina. We stayed at the Isle of Palms which has everything you need in a beach spot and you are a quick car trip into the city.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN AUSTIN?

We were living in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania when my husband and I first visited Austin. On a break from residency we came to visit good friends that recently moved here. We fell in love with the landscape, the food, the music and the quirkiness of the city. We could not wait to return. Several years later we moved after I completed my residency in the summer of 2010.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT AUSTIN?

There are a lot of fantastic things about the area. The landscape of the hill country is gorgeous. The food is great. There is live music at every turn.  The most striking thing, however, is probably the people. When I first moved here from the northeast I was slightly suspicious of the friendliness I encountered. I quickly came to realize that Austinites are a rare breed of kind, courteous, polite and just plain cool folks. I like getting to know people’s varied backgrounds and how they came to be in the area.  There is a good vibe here and it seems to attract more good vibes.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS?

I cannot get enough of Santa Catarina in Lakeway! They have terrific Mexican food. Everything on the menu is great but I am particularly addicted to the shrimp entrees. I am also a big fan of pizza. I must say that Tony C’s makes a really crave-worthy pie. I am not sure if Juiceland counts, but I think it should. You can hide a whole lot of spinach under mangoes and pineapple. This should count as a meal and likely balances out the pizza.

A united group of skin care specialists from Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, Austin's leader in Dermatology and Plastic Surgery. Articles posted under WD staff are authored through combined contributions from our entire team, including Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists, Aestheticians, Physician Assistants, Aesthetic Nurses, and Patient Coordinators.