Moy-Fincher-Chipps Facial Plastics & Dermatology

Above L to R: Susan Goodlerner, MD, Lisa Chipps, MD, Lauren Moy, MD

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Moy-Fincher-Chipps Facial Plastics & Dermatology, which was founded 30 years ago by Ronald Moy, MD, specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology as well as facial cosmetic surgery. The practice recently became an affiliate of Golden State Dermatology—a comprehensive medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology network.

Originally from Colorado, Lisa Chipps, MD, earned her medical degree at Keck School of Medicine of USC and completed a Mohs and cosmetic surgery fellowship at Moy-Fincher-Chipps. She joined the practice in 2008. Dr. Chipps is triple board-certified and serves as the vice president of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. She teaches dermatologic surgery at Harbor-UCLA and is on staff at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. 

Susan Goodlerner, MD, graduated from Emory Medical School and did dermatology training at UCLA with Dr. Ron Moy. She managed her own private dermatology practice in Torrance for more than 30 years before joining the team at Moy-Fincher-Chipps. She is a clinical faculty member at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and was on staff at Torrance Memorial Medical Center for more than 30 years. 

Lauren Moy, MD, earned her medical degree from Albany Medical College and completed her dermatology residency at Loyola University, where she served as chief resident. She completed her Mohs surgery and cosmetic surgery fellowship at Moy-Fincher-Chipps. She is double board-certified in dermatology and facial cosmetic surgery and is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Tell us about your practice. 

We offer medical and cosmetic dermatology, cosmetic and facial plastic surgery, Mohs surgery, neurotoxins, fillers and other injectables, custom laser treatments, microneedling, and services for skin, hair and nail disorders. We specialize in all skin types and have the best tools to treat all skin types safely.

How is your practice leading the way with women in positions of authority?

Women have a very unique and important role in our practice. It’s been scientifically shown that women surgeons achieve better outcomes with fewer complications. We strive to provide patients with what we would want as a consumer and patient, which sets us apart. We also love our fellow female doctors! We refer often to female physicians in the area and love the relationship we have with them and are always looking for more! It’s an amazing network that is supportive and a great resource for our patients.

In what ways does Moy-Fincher-Chipps stand out in your field?

Our practice excels at skin health and patient care. We all love spending time with and listening to our patients, learning what will work with their lifestyles and their health and aesthetic goals. From skin cancer to aesthetics, we pick the best treatment plan for each patient.

Describe your dream client.

Our dream client is someone who understands that skin health is a lifelong journey and that we are a team. We work with our patients to make sure they go through life healthy and radiant. Our dream client knows that skin health is just as important as daily exercise and a healthy diet.

Speak about the importance of community.

The South Bay is a special place—the people and community are warm and vibrant. Many people living here have grown up locally and embody the warm, optimistic, sunny California spirit. At our practice, the atmosphere is so positive—a mentality also makes us strive to be better doctors to make sure every patient has a great experience and the best result for them.

What words of wisdom do you have for other women in medicine?

Dr. Moy: I think people underestimate women. In medicine, everyone and every specialty has their individual struggle. Being able to stay confident and honest about who I am is one of the things that has gotten me through many struggles. And staying positive!

Dr. Chipps: In the early years of my career, I found that it was best to say “yes” to professional invitations, which provided me exposure and opportunities for professional growth. As my career advances, I am learning to commit my time and energies to the endeavors that allow me to have the strongest positive impacts while balancing my family life and my personal well-being. This allows me to continue to love every day of work and provide my best care for each of my patients.

Dr. Goodlerner: Looking back on my career, what stands out most are relationships. My advice to other women physicians is to enjoy the journey. The bond that doctors have with their patients is unique. As physicians, we can do something good for someone every day. I also appreciate my relationships with colleagues in the Torrance medical community. We are fortunate that our community has attracted top-notch physicians in every specialty. Photographed by Jeffrey Fiterman