Dr. Autumn Starnes

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Growing up in a bustling household with eight siblings in La Crosse, Wisconsin, Dr. Autumn Starnes developed a strong sense of resilience and dedication early on. She graduated from Luther High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree, graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of Wisconsin, where she majored in Psychology and Pre-Medicine.

Dr. Starnes is proud to be a member of the inaugural class of the Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, VA. During her medical training, she gained invaluable experience through rotations at Norton Community Hospital in Norton, Virginia. Following her graduate medical education, she completed her Osteopathic Internship at University Hospitals Richmond Medical Center in Ohio.

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She then pursued a Dermatology residency at University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland, OH, where she conducted research on a variety of topics, including calciphylaxis, mechanisms of hair loss, and the clinical and molecular effects of fractionated laser treatment. Dr. Starnes has published her findings in several medical journals, covering subjects such as lasers, leukemia cutis, cutaneous tumors, and amyloidosis.

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In 2011, Dr. Starnes opened Cutting Edge Dermatology in Wise, VA, followed by The Skin Store in 2014. Cutting Edge Dermatology is a multi-provider practice that serves a rural community, with the nearest dermatology office located 50 miles away. The Skin Store features Dr. Starnes' own line of cosmetics, ProSkin MD, and offers professional cosmetic dermatology services.

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During her residency, Dr. Starnes faced a personal challenge when her husband, Christopher Starnes, M.D., was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. After undergoing a bone marrow transplant in 2009, he enjoyed nearly five years of remission before facing a recurrence in 2013, which led to significant health complications. Dr. Starnes has devoted herself to supporting Chris throughout his recovery from paraplegia and bilateral below-knee amputations.

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In her free time, Dr. Starnes is pursuing a certification in Integrative Dermatology to deepen her understanding of complete skin health, longevity, and comprehensive healthy living. She enjoys the company of her two dogs, Ziva and George, who serve as therapy animals at her practice, helping young patients navigate difficult visits. Additionally, Dr. Starnes dedicates time to cultivating her family’s lives through example and encouragement. She participates in a family Bible study that connects her with relatives in Wisconsin and enriches her Christian journey.

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Autumn and Chris are also avid travelers, enjoying safaris, scuba diving, and immersive cultural experiences.

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In recognition of her significant contributions to the field, Dr. Starnes received the prestigious Photo Medicine Award from University Hospitals Case Western Reserve in 2011, honoring her outstanding research in laser and light treatment.