Shifa Akhtar, MD

Dr. Shifa Akhtar is a dermatologist and the current 2026-2027 ASDS-accredited Dermatologic Surgery Fellow at DLVSC.

Originally from South Florida, Dr. Akhtar earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience from the University of Miami. She went on to obtain her medical degree from the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, during which she completed a clinical research fellowship at the University of Miami Department of Dermatology and was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She then completed her dermatology residency training at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, Ohio.

Throughout her training, Dr. Akhtar has been actively involved in dermatologic research, authoring numerous peer-reviewed publications and book chapters with work spanning cosmetic and laser dermatology, Mohs micrographic surgery, cutaneous oncology.

Dr. Akhtar is deeply committed to advancing the field of dermatology through professional leadership, advocacy, and service. She was selected to serve on committees within the Women’s Dermatologic Society and the American Academy of Dermatology, where she contributes to initiatives that support improving access to dermatologic care and the future of the specialty. Her commitment to service has also included skin cancer screenings, women’s shelter outreach, and health initiatives serving underserved communities.

Outside of work, Dr. Akhtar enjoys cooking (especially soups), traveling, yoga, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her friends and family. She is excited to explore Charlotte this year alongside her husband and their cat, Biscuit. Dr. Akhtar is thrilled to join DLVSC team and continue developing her expertise in cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery during her fellowship year.