Valerie Hanft, MD

Valerie Hanft, MD received her Dermatology specialty training at the University of Michigan. During her residency, she was selected for subspecialty training in a melanoma fellowship. Dr. Hanft graduated magna cum laude from Duke University and subsequently completed her Doctor of Medicine degree in the top one-third of her class from Duke University School of Medicine. Following medical school, Dr. Hanft completed a transitional internship with Carillion Health System in Roanoke, Virginia.

Dr. Hanft is Board Certified by the American Board of Dermatology and is a member of the Travis County Medical Association.  She has been featured in the “Top Doctors” (Dermatology category) of Austin Monthly Magazine in 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019.

Dr. Hanft has been involved in various research, presentations and publications. She was a member of the FDA Task Force from 2001 to 2005. In 1997, Dr. Hanft embarked on a medical mission in Haiti, providing care in rural clinics and assisting Haitian physicians in area hospitals. Her professional interests are in pediatric dermatology, clinical research and medical dermatology. She brought her knowledge and expertise to Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in 2005.

Dr. Hanft sees patients at our Westlake location.

Learn more about Dr. Hanft: WD Spotlight: Valerie Hanft, MD

Testimonials About Dr. Hanft

• “My experience with WD has always been first rate. Dr. Hanft is fantastic.” — Eugene L. (February 13, 2019)

• “Dr. Hanft has a wonderful patient/doctor demeanor. She makes “going to the Doctor” an enjoyable experience.” — Keith S. (February 7, 2019)

• “The nurse or nursing assistant and Dr. Hanft are fantastic! The provide excellent care!” — George T. (January 31, 2019)

• “Dr. Hanft is so gentle and kind. She shows interest in my life, more than just walking in the room and examining me and walking out. She is very pleasant and explains so well any concerns she might have about my exam. I am extremely pleased with her care.” — Sharon P. (January 31, 2019)

• “The doctor was fabulous.” — Malcolm M. (January 29, 2019)

• “The women at the front desk are courteous, kind, and very quick with processing. Dr. Hanft was spectacular. She is skilled, attentive, kind, and friendly. I feel very comfortable in her presence. She is an excellent physician whom I have utmost confidence in.” — Kenneth H. (January 24, 2019)

• “I love Dr. Hanft and the staff. Everyone is great and super friendly. Great experience.” — Kelly H. (January 18, 2019)

• “Dr. Hanft’s assistant, Lee, was fantastic in quickly getting me an earlier appointment after another patient canceled. That is service above and beyond! And, Dr. Hanft is fantastic in diagnosing and treatment and has a wonderful bedside manner!” — Gary W. (January 17, 2019)

• “You guys rock as does Dr. Hanft…organized, professional & nice!!!” — Jeffery G. (January 15, 2019)

• “Dr. Valerie Hanft is wonderful. Office staff friendly and efficient.” — Jane R. (January 10, 2019)

• “Dr. Hanft has managed my chronic skin condition for ten years now. I absolutely trust her and appreciate her professionalism, dedication, and attention. I owe her being happy about my appearance. My skin gets all sorts of great compliments due to her expertise. In addition, the cosmetic appointments I have had have all been excellent. I love Eden and the great customer service there as well. Westlake Dermatology is a wonderful practice.” — Maria E. (January 9, 2019)

• “Always a pleasure visiting. Dr Hanft is superb!” — James P. (January 4, 2019)

• “The whole experience is very pleasant. My physician, Dr. Hanft, is outstanding, she is caring and conscientious.” — Patricia B. (December 19, 2018)

• “It’s most enjoyable every time I visit!” — George T. (December 18, 2018)

• “My doctor had an amazing attitude and great communications.” — James D. (December 12, 2018)

• “I love Dr Hanft! I will recommend her highly!” — Polly C. (November 27, 2018)

• “I was very satisfied with my visit with the nurse and Dr. Hanft.” — Jennifer B. (November 20, 2018)

• “I especially appreciate Dr. Hanft being on time. Moreover, she and Leah were very welcoming, efficient and thorough.” — Carol H. (November 9, 2018)

• “Dr Hanft is always great. And Sharese is fantastic. They both spoil our family and are spot on taking care of our skin issues.” — Michael J. (October 10, 2018)

• “I can’t think of anything that could have been improved for my visit. The response to all of my concerns exceeded my expectations. Doctor Hanft and all of the staff were very helpful and friendly.” — Gayle S. (October 4, 2018)

• “Dr. Hanft is a fantastic physician.” — Frederick Z. (October 4, 2018)

• “I literally couldn’t be happier with my doctor and Westlake Dermatology. Unless I move, I’ll be a patient until I die.” — Randy M. (August 3, 2018)

• “Always feel comfortable and my questions are always answered.” — Annie W. (July 18, 2018)

• “It was wonderful… Dr. Hanft and her nurse were great!” — Diana E. (July 12, 2018)

• “My visit with Dr. Hanft was excellent, as usual. It is always a pleasure being treated by Dr. Hanft and the assistants that work with her.” — Edward S. (June 11, 2018)

• “Dr. Hanft is on time always, VERY competent, personable, brilliant. She saved my life, diagnosing melanoma 4 years ago this November. I have recommended her to all my friends.” — Diane D. (May 22, 2018)

• “My husband & I have been patients of Dr. Hanft for about 15 yrs & service has always been excellent. She is patient, thorough & we always learn from her & we have referred patients to her. Very satisfied.” — Polly R. (April 20, 2018)

• “Wonderful as was… ‘got me in quick… ‘saw me quickly… price was very fair… and I was out and on my way! There’s nothing I would add as it was a wonderful experience overall.” — Owen C. (April 6, 2018)

• “Everyone I dealt with was very professional and pleasant. Dr. Hanft was so patient with my questions and made me feel important.” — Tomina S. (March 23, 2018)

• “Very happy I went to Dr. Hanft. She was great!” — Cecelia G. (March 11, 2018)

• “Everything was professional and personable. It was a good experience all around.” — Patrica B. (February 15, 2018)

• “Love me some Dr. Hanft! She is so thorough and caring!” — Lilli G. (February 1, 2018)

• “I have been going to this doctor for more than 10 years, and could not be more pleased with the service.” — Michael M. (January 30, 2018)

• “I just love Doctor Valarie Hanft. She has taken good care of me for years!!” — Debra M. (December 13, 2017)

• “The doctor and staff made me feel very comfortable.” — Diana S. (November 23, 2017)

• “Keep on, keeping on! You guys are excellent!!!” — Amy B. (November 21, 2017)

• “I love the office. Dr. Hanft is wonderful and all other personnel are professional, pleasant and helpful.” — Sheron M. (November 14, 2017)

• “Dr. Hanft is great. She is an excellent dermatologist.” — Fernanda C. (November 8, 2017)

• “My visit was extremely enjoyable!” — Mark M. (October 20, 2017)

• “I have been coming to Westlake Dermatology for many years. I love that Dr. Hanft knows me and makes me feel special. Her nurse is also so personable and friendly. I drive a long way but wouldn’t have it any other way to see these 2. Thank You!!!” — Karla M. (October 13, 2017)

• “The place is a real treat to visit, the staff is wonderful and the Dr.’s/Nurses are unsurpassed.” — Charles T. (October 11, 2017)

• “As always, Dr. Hanft greeted me and treated me with the utmost professionalism. I know I’m in good hands and have extended her care to my wife and my grandson.” — Frederick Z. (September 29, 2017)

• “You guys always do a wonderful job and the whole experience is very pleasant. My appointments are consistently on time, friendly, and efficient.” — Kristin S. (September 29, 2017)

• “When I speak with Dr. Hanft, I feel like she really hears what I say and she is very good at explaining processes and expectations.” — Rebecca F. (September 27, 2017)

• “Dr. Hanft is always thorough, professional, and personable. She is a good listener and always gives valuable advice to any questions that I ask. I have recommended her to friends who also really like her.” — Mary Jeanne. (September 22, 2017)

• “I was completely satisfied with my visit with Dr. Hanft. She called me at home the following morning to determine how my treatment was progressing, and whether or not the bleeding had subsided. Thank you Dr. Hanft.” — Edward S. (September 7, 2017)

• “I was quite satisfied and enjoyed my visit. All my interactions were most positive and Dr. Hanft is an outstanding health professional. I am so glad that my dermatologist in Atlanta referred me to Dr. Hanft about five years ago.” — Vic T. (August 23, 2017)

• “I am so satisfied with Westlake Dermatology and Dr. Hanft that I wouldn’t go anywhere else even though they don’t accept my insurance. I don’t trust treating my skin cancer to any other dermatologists. I am always referring people.” — Molly A. (August 4, 2017)

• “Dr. Hanft is a superstar, professional, knowledgeable, caring, and easy to talk with.” — Larry N. (July 26, 2017)

• “No changes needed, first rate experience.” — William M. (July 25, 2017)

• “Nothing would make my visit more enjoyable. I love going to see Dr. Hanft. She’s friendly, professional and efficient. I feel like I am engaged in great preventative and proactive care for my fair skin with our six-month check-ups.” — Ky C. (June 15, 2017)

• “Just love Dr. Hanft!! She is so friendly and thorough!” — Sherrie P. (June 14, 2017)

• “You never get a second chance at a first impression, and my first visit and impression was excellent!” — Robert S. (May 23, 2017)

• “I was able to be checked in and seen by the doctor very quickly. Lovely offices and staff. Thank you!” — Charity E. (May 18, 2017)

• “I appreciate so much the personal level of care and understanding that Dr. Hanft gives to her patients – Westlake Dermatology is not just a great place for cosmetic dermatology but for medical needs as well. Thank you!!” — Shiloh C. (April 27, 2017)

• “I was grateful that they put me on a cancellation list and I got in quickly. Dr. Hanft allayed my fears about some suspicious spots and asked me to follow up in a month to make sure everything checked out alright.” — Catherine A. (April 7, 2017)

• “Dr. Hanft and the rest of the team are great.” — Mike J. (March 9, 2017)

• “It is always a pleasure to visit Dr. Hanft. She is very knowledgeable and professional.” — Ed S. (March 2, 2017)

• “We love Dr. Hanft and her team! Very professional, kind and timely!” — Polly R. (February 23, 2017)

• “The entire exerpience was great and very punctual which I greatly appreciated during the work day.” — McKenzie G. (February 23, 2017)

• “Thank you, there is not much more you can do! I appreciate the courteous service each time I schedule an appointment and the knowledge of Dr. Hanft.” — Tom B. (January 29, 2017)

• “Always is a quick, easy, and good appointment.” — D’Lanna M. (January 19, 2017)

• “I can’t imagine a more enjoyable visit than this recent visit.” — Vic T. (January 17, 2017)

• “Dr. Hanft and all of the staff were great. I was in and out much more quickly than any other doctor I have seen. Very efficient, professional and personalized experience.” — Aaron B. (January 11, 2017)

• “I’m new to the area and difficult to please, my expectations are abnormally high.Great experience from the greeting at the reception desk, then by Francis of Dr Hanft staff, great personality, made you feel at ease. Before making an appointment I researched the staff which were all very impressive. As a new patient, I was fortunate to get in quickly because of a cancellation. Timing. I was also very fortunate to get the doctor I was hoping to see, Dr. Valerie Hanft. Sometimes expectations aren’t met, this was not the case with Dr. Hanft, I could not have been more pleased. She was everything and more as to what I expected, very knowledgeable, professional, great personality made you feel at ease (in the old days it was called GREAT bedside manner), can tell she is genuinely concerned about her patients. Diagnosed my issue immediately and prescribed treatment. Mentally felt better before I left the office. A COMPLETE GREAT EXPERIENCE. I left VERY IMPRESSED.” — Michael C. (January 6, 2017)

• “Dr. Hanft was very professional and took the time to explain my options. I feel very comfortable with her recommendations.” — Dennis H. (January 6, 2017)

• “As usual, I was very satisfied with my appointment. I didn’t even sit down after check in, so there was NO wait time. All of the staff were pleasant and professional. Dr. Hanft was VERY thorough and explained her procedures. Thank you, Westlake Dermatology! See you next year!!” — Carolyn O. (December 31, 2016)

• “Dr. Hanft is the most competent dermatologist I have ever met. She is excellent.” — S.C. (December 21, 2016)

• “I always have a pleasant visit. Never have to wait too long. It’s great. Dr. Hanft is always so professional and efficient, yet personable. Since I am a fair-skinned person, I feel that with these annual or semi-annual skin checks are an important preventive step to detecting skin issues before they become more problematic.” — Ky C. (December 17, 2016)

• “I reluctantly changed to Westlake Dermatology because my previous provider does not accept my current medical insurance. Sharese the MA is incredible and extremely proficient and helpful! I also loved my thorough exam with Dr. Hanft. The person at the check out was also most helpful in assisting me with products for my face. I am very happy and impressed!” — Gary W. (November 18, 2016)

• “Every appointment is always met and fulfilled with the same efficiency. Hardly any waiting time, which we really appreciate!” — Jax C. (November 5, 2016)

• “I am so fortunate to have found Dr. Hanft. She is very knowledgeable, and yet is also so personable. I feel confident in her expertise and any recommendations she makes.” — Jerry W. (October 27, 2016)

• “Everyone I’ve met has been gracious and competent. Valerie Hanft is awesome in every aspect of her work and presence.”  — Jerry W. (October 20, 2016)

• “The staff is friendly, assistants are knowledgeable and friendly. The doctors are outstanding. Dr. Hanft has always been very thorough and has caught some skin conditions early.”  — Cathy F. (October 7, 2016)

• “Everyone is very awesome!!!”  — Maria H. (September 27, 2016)

• “This practice has been my go-to for both medical and cosmetic dermatologic needs for fourteen years.  I find the physicians and staff to be empathetic and professional.  Appointments are unrushed, and the waiting room experience is relaxing.  Bonus points for the bottled water that they offer at every visit.”  — Sandra S. (September 16, 2016)

• “It’s always a great experience!  Feel you all treat me like a Queen.”  — Billie K. (September 8, 2016)

• “Dr. Hanft is informative, gives service with a smile and is prompt and efficient with her services yet willing to answer any and all questions.”  — Jeffrey J. (September 7, 2016)

• “Whenever I have been in to see Dr. Hanft the staff has been very courteous. Always a great experience.”  — Sharon S. (September 2, 2016)

• “As a patient of Dr. Hanft for the past 10 years, I have nothing but great things to say about her! Although my visits are few and far between these days, I still sing her praises to anyone that will listen. Not only is she extremely knowledgeable and upfront, she is kind and sincere.”  — Cassie M. (September 2, 2016)

• “I love my doctor. Very complete with exams and friendly. Always professional. Closer to south location but want to see her so will continue longer commute to see her.”  — Karla M. (September 2, 2016)

• “My experience was both enjoyable and productive.  Dr. Hanft and her assistant are helpful, professional and knowledgeable.  I very much appreciate the advice and the treatment that I am given. Thank you!”  — Ed S. (September 1, 2016)

• “The entire staff was friendly and welcoming. The nurse was knowledgeable and personable. Dr. Hanft was very attentive and thorough.” — Ron C. (August 30, 2016)

• “Physical surroundings of building are spacious and serene, providing lovely views and a calming experience.  Sharese and Dr. Hanft were efficient, professional and friendly.  My visit was very satisfying because of the setting and the wonderful interaction with doctor and staff!”  — Aurye W. (July 28, 2016)

• “Excellent all around.”  — Joseph M. (May 25, 2016)

• “Everyone was so kind and patient.  Thank you!”  — Nora Jane G. (May 3, 2016)

• “Dr. Hanft listens and has made improvements to my skin that have plagued me for almost five years. She is so compassionate and understanding. She makes me feel that my skin will clear up and offers solutions that fit with my small budget. I am so grateful and thankful for everything she has done for me. I may be able to wear a skirt again sooner rather than later :)”  — Yassi O. (April 13, 2016)

• “Excellent.  Almost fun to go to the doctor–which is saying a lot.”  — John T. (March 3, 2016)

• “Staff and Dr. Hanft are wonderful.  Even though it’s a doctor visit it is always a pleasure.”  — Elizabeth K. (March 3, 2016)

• “I really appreciate the attentiveness and professionalism of all the staff. Appointments start on time and the quality of care is excellent.”  — Donald L. (February 24, 2016)

• “We really liked Dr. Hanft!! She was professional, but also very friendly and made us feel very comfortable.”  — Phillip N. (January 15, 2016)

• “Dr. Hanft is the only doctor I don’t dread visiting. Obviously the Westlake office is simply beautiful and lovely place to visit, but the care I receive is what keeps me coming back. Our appointments are pleasant, never rushed, and I feel comfortable to ask questions.”  — Kristin S. (December 18, 2015)

• “Everyone was quick, efficient, and helpful. Thank you!”  — Shannon P. (November 12, 2015)

• “Friendly, fast and thorough visit. It was a pleasure working with you.”  — Katie B. (September 30, 2015)

• “I was pleased with everything from the time I walked in!”  — Patricia D. (September 18, 2015)

• “I always enjoy my time at Westlake and Dr. Hanft is really great! It is the only time that going to the doctor is an enjoyable experience. I’ve been seeing Dr. Hanft for years and just love her bedside manner, truly a great physician!”  — Maren C. (August 13, 2015)

• “I felt very comfortable throughout the whole procedure. Dr. Hanft and Frances were awesome!”  — Michael Z. (August 7, 2015)

• “I was very nervous about this first appointment but everyone was super sweet and it really made me less anxious. Wonderful staff. Thank you all, especially Dr. Hanft.”  — Carol H. (August 6, 2015)

• “Dr. Hanft is WONDERFUL! She takes care of my whole family. I refer her to everyone.”  — Candy P. (July 1, 2015)

• “Very professional and welcoming staff and surroundings. Excellent provider-patient interaction.”  — David S. (June 18, 2015)

• “Excellent health care and patient services.”  — Maria E. (June 12, 2015)

• “I am very satisfied with the care I receive at Westlake Dermatology. The staff is pleasant, the ambiance is excellent, and Dr. Hanft is a most competent and caring physician. I especially appreciate being seen on time!”  — Paula C. (May 13, 2015)

• “My experience was all professional, all the way. Everyone seems very well trained to handle whatever turn the interaction with clients might take. I was very impressed with the level of professionalism exhibited by the physician and all staff. This was my personal experience and extends to what I observed of other clients’ exchanges with the staff. The overall experience looks to be well integrated and aimed at preventing unpleasant surprises. It’s encouraging to see processes in place that anticipate so much of what goes wrong elsewhere and deals with those eventualities in comprehensive and proactive ways. Keep up the good work!”  — David D. (April 29, 2015)

• “Great customer service from the time you arrive until you walk out the facility!”  — Shirley C. (April 22, 2015)

• “Everything was fantastic. Prompt, courteous… positive experience all around. Every single person I encountered was lovely. Dr. Hanft was smart and thorough.  I feel more than comfortable with the care that I received.”  — Katie L. (March 12, 2015)

• “I can honestly say, there really is nothing that could make the experience more enjoyable!  Y’all are absolutely fabulous!  Wish all clinics were ran as smoothly as yours!”  — Sarah D. (March 10, 2015)

• “My first visit with Dr. Hanft was very professional, punctual, and met all expectations. Excellent experience.”  — Bob R. (February 27, 2015)

• “Dr. Hanft is super and I hope I can have her for my dermatologist for the long term.”  — John R. (February 26, 2015)

• “Dr. Hanft was great!  She understood procedure would be somewhat uncomfortable therefore was very patient in taking her time.  I will be back!”  — Lorie C. (February 26, 2015)

• “It is so nice that the Dr actually listens to you and your problems!”  — Cindy L. (February 14, 2015)

• “Sharese and Dr. Hanft were both very cordial, took time to answer my questions and make me feel comfortable. They were thorough, which is very important for a skin cancer screening.”  — Kristen H. (February 12, 2015)

• “Love the atmosphere, service and my physician there.”  — David P. (January 7, 2015)

• “Dr. Hanft is an extremely knowledgeable and professional Dermatologist.  I have visited other Dermatologists over the years, and I have had the best results in my treatments with Dr. Hanft. Thank you.”  — Ed S. (December 18, 2014)

• “Dr. Valerie Hanft is terrific! So knowledgeable, professional and yet so friendly. She is a gem!”  — Claudia M. (December 12, 2014)

• “Dr. Hanft is a wonderful Doctor. She has a friendly demeanor and I always feel comfortable with her while simultaneously, she is obviously quite thorough.”  — Nicholas M. (October 20, 2014)

• “Westlake Dermatology provides my entire family a level of care and service that is unmatched by anyone else in Austin.  Dr. Hanft and her staff are always on time, nice, knowledgeable, accommodating and most generous.  If you care about your skin then give the fine folks at Westlake a shot at your business.  You wont’ be sorry!”  — Charles T. (October 15, 2014)

• “Everything was awesome and I am 100% satisfied! I will definitely be referring Dr. Hanft to others.”  — Samantha R. (October 8, 2014)

• “Personalization of the visit from the front desk to the doctor ‘start to finish’.  Dr. Hanft and her assistant Francis were kind and considerate professionals that make you feel comfortable.  That’s why I drive 60 miles one way to see Dr. Hanft.  I am treated like I matter.  My experience is this sort of one-on-one service is becoming rare in the medical professional world.”  — Dan M. (October 8, 2014)

• “Dr. Hanft is very thorough and kind. She is the reason is drive from Waco!  I’ve recommended her to everyone!”  — Linda P. (September 25, 2014)

• “Great first experience. Friendly doctor, welcoming and made me feel comfortable.”  — Kelly W. (September 16, 2014)

• “I love the clinic, the staff and especially Dr. Hanft.”  — Elizabeth K. (August 13, 2014)

• “Dr. Hanft is a great doctor. She remembers who you are and takes a lot of time to explain everything in detail.”  — Shelley B. (August 7, 2014)

• “It is a comfortable and pleasant setting, and I have great confidence in Dr. Hanft, who seems highly competent, thorough and very honest.”  — Joan G. (June 11, 2014)

• “I love Dr. Hanft!  She’s great at her job, and is super personable, too.  She makes coming for a dermatology appointment like going to see an old friend.”  — Susan S. (June 5, 2014)

• “I love Dr. Hanft. My granddaughters have been seeing her for years.  When I needed to see a dermatologist she was the one.”  — Alicia C. (June 3, 2014)

• “Great experience and quality care! Thank you.”  — Alan H. (May 10, 2014)

• “You do a very good job at making my visits very easy and comfortable.”  — Larry L. (May 8, 2014)

• “The staff is very friendly and everything runs so smoothly!  Alisha was so nice and we love Dr. Hanft!  I wouldn’t change a thing.”  — Alison M. (January 30, 2014)

• “Westlake Dermatology is first class.  Dr. Hanft and her staff provide the highest quality service and concern. I have the utmost confidence in my care.”  — George M. (November 7, 2013)

• “Dr. Valerie Hanft is awesome.  I have been going to her for my skin care for years and she is an excellent doctor.”  — Debra M. (September 18, 2013)

• “I first was seen by Dr. Valerie Hanft and when I couldn’t quite pronounce her name properly she suggested I call her Valerie. Not many physicians are that comfortable with NOT being called Doctor, so I applaude Dr. Hanft for being so personable!”  — Cynthia S. (September 13, 2013)

• “Dr. Hanft is awesome. Very personable, logical, smart and approachable. She is first focused on good health but can also help with cosmetic issues. She is so helpful, nice and super knowledgeable. I also thought the person at the front desk knew a lot about the products. Thank you!”  — Veronica M. (June 27, 2013)

• “The Westlake location is so convenient for me; however, I would drive much if I had to, to make sure I see Dr. V. Hanft.”  — Charlotte K. (June 6, 2013)

• “Dr. Hanft was very personable and knowledgeable. I appreciated her taking the time to discuss my options and be willing to provide advice and guidance. It was great!”  — Alisa H. (May 24, 2013)

• “Everything went perfect and was very pleasant. I especially appreciated that I was seen right at the appointment time and not 30-45 minutes late, as seems to be the norm these days in medical offices. Both the front staff and Dr. Hanft are excellent.”  — Gunnar T. (May 14, 2013)

• “Dr. Hanft is very personable and very thorough.  I would recommend Westlake to anyone because of how caring everyone from the nurse to the doctor and front desk team are.”  — Shelby D. (May 2, 2013)

• “Dr. Hanft provides excellent patient service.  I highly recommend her services.”  — Marilyn B. (May 1, 2013)

• “Parking is great – staff is friendly – I never wait more than 10 minutes in the waiting room and never wait more than 5 minutes for my doctor to come in – check out is easy and office is very nice and clean.  My visits with Dr. Hanft are always quick and easy.”  — Alison M. (April 30, 2013)

• “It was encouraging to meet Dr. Hanft and have confidence in her from the start.  She has the extraordinary ability to combine the skills of an exceedingly thorough and expert dermatologist with a fabulous bedside manner of caring, empathy and kindness.  Going above and beyond, she answered my dermatology-related questions at the time of my first visit with her, AND followed up with a subsequent phone call to find out how I was doing after she found out I was just informed about a serious and difficult medical condition.  Westlake Dermatology is an upscale office, and, as exemplified by Dr. Hanft, an impressive medical team who make patients feel like they are people as opposed to numbers. I also so-appreciate the staff supporting Dr. Hanft  – they are very helpful and accommodating!”  — Elizabeth G. (April 7, 2013)

• “After my appointment, I recommended Dr. Hanft and Westlake Dermatology to two people when I returned to work.”  — Gail B. (April 6, 2013)

• “I love all the good magazines in your office. Also, I really love my doctor. Valerie Hanft is personable and knowledgeable. I feel she cares about my health.”  — Peggy S. (March 20, 2013)

• “I have always been very impressed with the staff at WL Dermatology.  Very polite, and knowledgeable.  I can’t say enough great stuff about Dr Hanft.  She always takes the time to answer questions, and is very thorough in her exams.  All in all, a great experience!  Thanks.”  — Janine T. (March 8, 2013)

• “I love everything about Westlake Dermatology and always feel exceptionally well cared for during my visit.  Dr. Hanft has the perfect combination of sympathetic interest and confidence-inspiring medical knowledge.”  — Kelly S. (March 2, 2013)

• “The staff treated me friendly and professionally.  I always walk away feeling that my needs were met.”  — Cindy K. (February 11, 2013)

• “My daughter saw Dr. Hanft for acne and I saw her for a mole scan. She and her nurse were wonderful to both of us. I was very impressed with the brand new melanoma scan technology. The Melafind takes a super-magnified picture and shows how the mole looks at different depths in the skin.”  — Cissy R. (December 9, 2012)

• “Very nice facility and polite personnel.”  — Martyn T. (November 30, 2012)

• “Dr. Valerie Hanft does a great job in balancing the most important aspects of her job; she is extremely medically knowledgeable while still very much an approachable person. Over the years I’ve had conversations with her that ranged from a new iPhone release to a pre-cancerous mole (that Dr. Hanft identified and had removed). Dr. Hanft answers all my questions in a casual and non-judgmental way, and seems to understand the doctor’s office experience from a patient perspective. I would recommend Dr. Hanft and Westlake Dermatology to anyone.”  — Dustin H. (October 17, 2012)

• “Quick and Easy, I like efficient handling so I can get back to work. I was in and out the door in about 30 minutes.”  — Ben M. (October 10, 2012)

• “Everyone is always so nice, from the Ladies at the check-in to Dr. Hanft.  I’ve recommended Westlake to many, many friends over the years, and they all love it, too!!”  — Maren C. (August 10, 2012)

• “I thoroughly appreciate the professionalism of every person that I deal with at Westlake Dermatology – from the scheduler to the doctor.  And I’m so impressed with our timing.  I recently waited 2 hours at another doctor’s appointment and had to leave before the doctor came in.  I got in and out of your office in 30 minutes.  Awesome!”  — Sharla D. (August 3, 2012)

• “We are so appreciative of the care we receive from Dr. Valerie Hanft.  What an asset she is to Westlake Dermatology.”  — Barbara T. (July 26, 2012)

• “Dr. Hanft always makes me feel completely comfortable. The staff is always super friendly and welcoming! I love it here!!”  — Jenny D. (July 13, 2012)

• “Your staff is always friendly and well organized.  I appreciate that the wait time has always been within 15 minutes or less of the scheduled appointment time.”  — Thomas W.

• “Dr. Hanft is awesome. I had 3 people recommend her to me and I now highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for a great dermatologist. She is so easygoing and really gets to know you and your skin issues so she can make your treatment just right for you. And the office is very relaxing and the staff is very friendly.”  — Nicole W.

• “Dr. Hanft is always very nice.  She takes the time to answer all of my questions and she never rushes through an appointment.  Because of her wonderful care, my entire family goes to Westlake Dermatology.  Thank you!”  — Michelle P.

• “Valerie takes a very personal and ongoing  interest in her patients.  She is an outstanding doctor, but just as important she also really connects with her patients. She always remembers my previous visits and what we did and what we talked about. We will be moving out of state in March and I will truly miss her.” — Barbara V.

• “Dr. Hanft was excellent. Solved the problem, explained ‘how and why’, and was a pleasure to interact with.” — Craig T.

• “The friendly and courteous staff is terrific!!!!! Dr. Hanft also very thorough and a great communicator.” — Edward W.

• “Dr. Hanft is an excellent physician, my one and only regret is that my daughters and I live so far from your Westlake location…  Thank you Westlake Dermatology for providing my family with an excellent medical staff.” — Patricia C.

• “I have been consistently satisfied with Dr Hanft and the entire staff. I have total confidence in the Doctor’s work and her assessment of my condition(s).” — Steve S.

• “Love Malia and Dr. Hanft.  I’m so thankful for all their help.”  — Morgan C.

• “My experience at Westlake Dermatology has been exceptional. Dr. Hanft has been awesome. She is very knowledgeable and professional. She is also attentive and extremely patient. Her assistant has also been outstanding and most helpful.”  — Kenneth H.

• “As Always – Wonderful!  Dr. Valerie Hanft made time in her very busy schedule to see me and provide her top-tier care.  I am always thankful and appreciative of the staff’s excellence and kindness!”  — David T.

• “The staff and doctors are amazing. Dr. hanft takes time to explain things and to make sure that I was comfortable the entire appointment. I loved the tapping that the assistant provided during my procedure. It really helped relax me while my moles were being removed.”  — Russell C.

• “Every aspect of my visit was professional and comforting.”  — Jason C.