For more than two decades, KMC Dermatology has set the standard for comprehensive skin care. Founded by Dr. Shekhar Challa, CEO of Kansas Medical Clinic/KMC Dermatology, the business has grown from a single office into a statewide leader in both medical and cosmetic dermatology - recognized for innovation, accessibility, and a patient-first approach.
KMC’s mission is to provide full-service skin cancer care: from early diagnosis to all modalities of advanced treatment - surgery/Mohs, and now image-guided superficial radiation therapy (IG-SRT).
“We also do quite a bit of education through other platforms whether it be for Gastroenterology, which is my specialty, or Dermatology – on social media, for example, and by staying in touch with primary care providers and providing them with up-to-date information,” Dr. Challa explains.
KMC Dermatology’s commitment to education and innovation has consistently kept Topeka on the cutting edge of skin care - introducing the city’s first Mohs surgery, photodynamic therapy, NB-UVB laser therapy, and, most recently, IG-SRT.
A First for Kansas: IG-SRT
A historic first in the state of Kansas, the advanced, non-invasive IG-SRT technology allows providers to treat certain types of skin cancer without surgery or scarring, using low-dose radiation precisely targeted at cancer cells beneath the skin’s surface.
“We wanted to provide the full range of treatment for skin cancer and have always strived to be the first in the market for anything related to skin,” says Dr. Challa.
For patients, IG-SRT represents a groundbreaking alternative - especially for those unable to undergo surgery or for cancers located in highly visible or delicate areas, such as the face or scalp. When it comes to treating early-stage non-melanoma skin cancers, IG-SRT’s cure rates are greater than 99%.
Power in Prevention
While advanced treatments are transforming outcomes, Dr. Joseph Gadzia emphasizes that prevention remains the most powerful defense against skin cancer.
“I think the adage ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ would be the overall philosophy,” says Dr. Gadzia. “This includes instructing patients on sun protection and treatment of suspicious lesions, pre-cancerous lesions, or even cancerous lesions as early as possible, to have the best possible outcomes.”
Prevention starts with simple, consistent habits, including daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, reapplication every two hours when outdoors, and protective clothing — including wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Accessible, Comprehensive Dermatology
While skin cancer treatment is central to KMC’s work, the practice also treats an array of everyday dermatologic conditions. From acne and warts to eczema, psoriasis and rashes, patients can expect personalized care plans designed to adapt.
“These are chronic conditions that change over time, so they can become worse or better,” explains Dr. Gadzia. “This means that treatments have to be personalized to the patient at different times. KMC offers access to all the newest treatments for these conditions.”
One of KMC’s distinguishing features is same-week appointment availability, a reflection of their patient-first philosophy.
“We look at everything from a patient convenience perspective,” says Dr. Challa. “If one of us were the patient, what would we want? We try to answer that question with every service we offer.”
This focus on accessibility extends beyond scheduling. With 11 dermatology locations across Kansas and Missouri, KMC ensures that patients can receive high-quality dermatologic care - from routine exams to advanced procedures - close to home.
The Topeka MedSpa
In addition to their robust medical practice, KMC also boasts six MedSpa locations, providing a welcoming environment for those seeking cosmetic and aesthetic care. KMC MedSpa Topeka, managed by Jaya Challa, delivers the same quality, safety, and personalized service that patients expect from KMC.
“Dermatology and MedSpa go hand-in-hand and we wanted to get them all under one roof,” says Dr. Shekhar Challa.
The Topeka MedSpa offers memberships and a full menu of treatments designed to rejuvenate, refresh, and restore healthy skin. Patients can choose from laser hair removal, HydraFacials, microneedling, chemical peels, dermaplane facials, and vascular and pigment laser treatments - all performed by skilled aestheticians in a medically supervised setting.
Bailey Eibes, MedSpa Supervisor overseeing five of KMC’s locations, adds that customization is key.
“We start by asking what concerns patients most,” Eibes says. “If pigmentation is the issue, we recommend laser treatments or chemical peels. For fine lines, injectables or microneedling might be best. And we always help patients choose the right skincare routine to support their results.”
Popular treatments vary by season, but Eibes says microneedling and VI Peels are current favorites, while laser hair removal is a perennial best-seller.
“We want every patient to walk out feeling healthier, happier, and more knowledgeable about their skin,” says Eibes.
With Kansas’ first IG-SRT technology, same-week appointments, and a network of trusted experts, KMC Dermatology continues to redefine skin health - offering complete care, from prevention to treatment to renewal. For a list of locations and services, visit kmcpa.com.