Meet Dr. Sydney Larkin Proffer
Dr. Sydney Larkin Proffer, MD, MS, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and cutting-edge skin care to her patients. With an impressive academic background and advanced fellowship training in both micrographic surgery and cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Proffer combines exceptional clinical expertise with a warm, patient-focused approach.
Education and Medical Training
Dr. Proffer earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Neuroscience, with a minor in Mathematics, from Middlebury College, graduating with honors. During her undergraduate studies, she developed a keen interest in the science behind skin health and disease, which led her to pursue a career in medicine. She continued her education at the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, where she earned her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Recognizing the importance of healthcare systems and quality improvement, she also obtained a Master of Science in Health Care Delivery from Arizona State University during this time.
Following medical school, Dr. Proffer completed a preliminary year in internal medicine at The Christ Hospital Health Network in Cincinnati, Ohio. She then returned to the Mayo Clinic to complete a highly competitive dermatology residency, gaining expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide spectrum of skin conditions. Her training was complemented by certifications in biostatistics, evidence-based medicine, process engineering, and quality improvement, giving her a unique skill set that blends medical excellence with a systems-based approach to patient care.
Advanced Fellowship Training
Dr. Proffer’s passion for procedural dermatology led her to Northwestern University in Chicago, where she is completing a dual fellowship in Micrographic Surgery and Dermato-Oncology (MSDO) and Cosmetic Dermatology under the mentorship of American Academy of Dermatology President, Dr. Murad Alam. This advanced training has honed her expertise in Mohs micrographic surgery—a precise, tissue-sparing technique for treating skin cancers—as well as in aesthetic dermatology procedures designed to help patients look and feel their best.
Professional Expertise and Philosophy of Care
Throughout her career, Dr. Proffer has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in dermatology, earning board certification from the American Board of Dermatology and maintaining medical licenses in multiple states. She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Dermatology, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Women’s Dermatologic Society, and the American College of Mohs Surgery.
Dr. Proffer believes that the best dermatologic care is rooted in listening to her patients, understanding their individual goals, and working collaboratively to achieve healthy, beautiful skin. Whether she is treating complex skin cancers, performing reconstructive surgery, or providing cosmetic enhancements, her focus is always on delivering safe, effective, and personalized results.
For more information related to publications and citations, visit Dr. Proffer’s Google Scholar Profile.Â
Beyond the Clinic
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Proffer is passionate about advancing the field of dermatology through research, quality improvement initiatives, and teaching the next generation of physicians. Her background in healthcare delivery and process improvement has driven her to find innovative ways to make dermatologic care more efficient, patient-centered, and accessible.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Proffer enjoys spending time with family and friends, and staying active through running, hiking, and outdoor adventures.