F O O D T R E N D S : New spots for specialty ramen
F
E KE
YOURS EL
J A N U A R Y 2022 TOP DOCTORS
H
P
EALT HY
/ THE KINJAZ DANCE CREW / SUEÑOS IN LAGUNA BEACH
TOP DOCTORS JANUARY 2022 $5.95
E N I X E A M AG AT I L L S V AT A H IN E R AD M A M D DO N LI A H IN
TOP DOCTORS 2022
747 PH Y SICI A NS 80 SPE CI A LT IE S THIS YE AR ’S PHYSICIANS OF E XCELLENCE WERE JUDGED BY THE
OR A NGE C OUN T Y ME DIC A L A S S O C I AT ION
T O B E A M O N G T H E M O S T A C C O M P L I S H E D A N D C A R IN G . How did the doctors get on this list? Turn to PAGE 83 for the selection process.
January 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 71
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 Unless otherwise noted, physicians are M.D.s, K designates Kaiser physicians, who accept only Kaiser patients.
ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY
William E. Berger Asthma, nasal allergies, food allergies Mission Viejo 949-364-2900 Warner W. Carr Food allergies, asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis Mission Viejo 949-364-2900 Wan-Yin Chan Immune deficiency Orange 714-633-6363 Sarah Field Food allergy, eczema, asthma, eosinophilic esophagitis Orange 714-633-6363 Bruce Friedman Asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, food allergy, eczema Fountain Valley 714-549-9330 Donald S. Levy Angioedema, eosinophilic esophagitis, urticaria, atopic dermatitis Orange 714-639-7847 Lisa Lim K Garden Grove 833-574-2273 Christina Schwindt Food allergies, asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis Newport Beach 949-791-3202 William N. Sokol Jr. Asthma Newport Beach 949-645-3374
ANESTHESIOLOGY
Kyle Ahn Regional anesthesiology, perioperative medicine, medical education Orange 714-456-8744
Armen Chalian Pain management Santa Ana 714-619-5383 Katherine Chiu Pediatric anesthesiology Orange 714-456-5501 Daniel S. Choi K Regional anesthesiology Irvine 949-485-9261 David Cipolla Newport Beach 949-764-6954 Rakhi Dayal Pain medicine Orange 714-456-7002 Adam Djurdjulov Newport Beach 949-764-6954 Scott Engwall Orange 714-456-7414 R. Ryan Field Neuroanesthesiology Orange 714-456-5501 Anna L. Harris Perioperative care Orange 714-745-6883 John M. Harris Pediatric anesthesiology Orange 714-509-8130 Peter Hodgson Ambulatory care Newport Beach 949-764-6954 Tsengting John Hsieh Pain management Newport Beach 949-764-5438 Eric Huang K Irvine 949-932-2440 George Istaphanous Pediatric anesthesiology Mission Viejo 949-478-2741 Richard J. Kelly Cardiothoracic anesthesiology Orange 714-456-5462 Joseph Kim Pediatric anesthesiology Santa Ana 714-619-5383
72 O R A N G E C O A S T • January 2022
Robert F. Kopel Critical care medicine Newport Beach 949-764-6954 Manoj Kulkarni Pediatric anesthesiology Santa Ana 714-619-5383 Erin McHale Perioperative medicine, ambulatory anesthesia, women's health Newport Beach 949-764-6954 Debra E. Morrison Pediatric and neonatal anesthesiology Orange 714-393-9521 Ariana M. Nelson Interventional pain medicine Irvine 949-824-7246 Corey K. Nelson Preoperative clinic, medical education, simulation Orange 714-456-5501 Jon Nguyen Patient safety and practice management Orange 714-619-5383 Kyle Paredes Orange 714-715-1288 Lynnus Peng Web-based medicine, medical legislation Fullerton 714-279-8665 Govind R. Rajan Critical care medicine, cardiac anesthesiology Orange 714-456-7812 Afshin Shabanie Pain management Santa Ana 714-619-5383 Stephen Skahen Neuroanesthesia Newport Beach 949-764-6954 Kristin Smith Ambulatory anesthesia, women's health Newport Beach 949-764-6954
WHAT IT’S LIKE TO …
BATTLE LEUKEMIA AS A TEEN Fullerton native Nick Meza’s diagnosis led him to creating a cancer support group and starting a career in robotics.—as told to Chelsea Raineri was diagnosed in December 2013 at CHOC—that was halfway through my senior year in high school. If you looked at me then, I didn’t look unhealthy. My initial symptoms were fatigue and the lymph nodes on my neck were really swollen. I thought I maybe had strep throat, but my doctor had a hunch that it was cancer. When I was diagnosed, they said I had cancer for about a month. They couldn’t determine exactly the kind of cancer, so I went through more tests until they diagnosed it as T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. When I first met my oncologist, he told me my attitude is going to be 50 percent of the battle, so I had a positive outlook (during) my whole experience. Patients get depressed, and how could you not? There’s a possibility you could die. But I tried to not to focus on that too much. The worst part of it was the cranial radiation. One of the warnings from the doctor was that it could affect my brain function and how I process information. I was worried because I was going to community college and there are a lot of concepts and theories to understand. It was harder to focus and pay attention and remember things. I studied more than twice what you should because it was harder for me to process the information. I met my girlfriend, Lauren Aslanian, in 2014. We were diagnosed at the same time. She had nonHodgkin’s lymphoma. She and I along with a few other patients started the Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program at CHOC, which is basically focused on giving patients, survivors, and their siblings the comfort and support of having friends who have been through something similar; it’s a support group without the support group feel. Before COVID-19, we had gone on retreats. We went to Lake Arrowhead and learned about different types of cancer, how to mentor people, and how to grieve losses because being part of the cancer program does not come without its fair share of sadness. I think I’ve experienced more loss than most people have in a lifetime. It’s sad, but we’re all in it together; and when we’re down, we can come around and pick each other up. My treatment was 3 1/2 years long, so I finished in April 2017. I did community college for four years, and then I transferred to Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona. I majored in mechanical engineering with an emphasis in robotics, which was partially inspired by my experience in the hospital.
I
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 Anil Tiwari K Cardiac anesthesiology Irvine 949-932-2284 Chi Ukishima K Perioperative, regional Anaheim 888-988-2800 Shermeen Vakharia Cardiovascular anesthesia Orange 949-824-7246 Eric K. Wellmeyer Pediatric anesthesiology Santa Ana 714-619-5383 William C. Wilson Monitoring, critical care medicine, patient safety Irvine 949-822-3594 Steve Yun Dental office anesthesia Orange 714-320-0084
ANESTHESIOLOGY PAIN MEDICINE
James A. Kim Interventional pain management Newport Beach 949-566-8688
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
There was a robot that does surgeries called the da Vinci Surgical System, and I thought that was the most fascinating thing ever. In my senior year, we had to complete a design project; you come up with a problem to solve and you engineer something to solve that problem. My team decided to design a robotic prosthetic leg, which also came from my experiences in the hospital. One of the people on my team was a software and computer engineering double major. One day, he told me he wanted to start a company in the robotics space, and I said, “Me too.” We started Orca Engineering and have worked on a small software robotics project for a cryogenics company as well as a project for our school, which was inspired by the work I did during my internship at Space X. Lauren was also inspired by her experience at the hospital. She’s going to nursing school and hopes to work on the same floor where we were diagnosed and treated at CHOC. I made the best of the situation overall, and I wouldn’t change what happened.
Jorge Castellanos Newport Beach 949-548-9611 Radhakrishan (Ray) S. Gandhi Interventional cardiology, aortic valve disease Newport Beach 949-515-4515 Richard Haskell Newport Beach 949-548-9611 Dipti Itchhaporia Digital transformation in healthcare, health equity Newport Beach 949-548 6634 Brian Kolski Structural heart disease, transcatheter valve therapy Orange 714-564-3300
Fernando Mendoza General cardiology, echocardiography, nuclear cardiology Los Alamitos 562-598-3200 Pranav Patel Interventional cardiology, heart valve disease, PAD Orange 714-456-7589 Satinder Swaroop Interventional and preventive cardiology Irvine 949-836-5872
CHILD ABUSE PEDIATRICS
Van Nguyen Greco Child abuse/injury prevention Orange 714-880-7812
CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY
Matthew Koury Evidence-based care at the community level Newport Beach 949-891-0307 Hoang (Wayne) Nguyen Consult/liaison, neurodevelopmental, eating disorders, OCD Orange 714-509-8232 Sina Safahieh ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders Newport Beach 949-207 6775
CHILD NEUROLOGY
Suresh Gurbani K Epilepsy Anaheim 888-988-2800 Andrew McIntosh Epilepsy, neurodevelopmental disorders Laguna Niguel 949-249-3780 Daniel Shrey Infantile spasms, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, refractory epilepsy Orange 714-509-7601
Maija-Riikka Steenari Epilepsy Orange 714-509-7601 Sharief Taraman Clinical informatics Orange 714-509-7555 Minodora Totoiu Down syndrome Orange 714-509-7555 Mary L. Zupanc Pediatric epilepsy Orange 714-509-3605
CLINICAL BIOCHEMICAL GENETICS
Virginia Kimonis Dysmorphology, neuromuscular, lysomal storage diseases, metabolic Orange 714-456-5792 Raymond Wang Lysosomal disorders, gene therapy, gene editing Orange 714-509-8852
CLINICAL CARDIAC ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY Michael Panutich Atrial fibrillation, ablation, arrhythmias, pacemakers, defibrillators Newport Beach 949-548-9611
CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE
Bhavini Jaiswal ECMO Newport Beach 949-764-6875 Michael Katz Neurocritical care, advanced cardiovascular medicine Fullerton 714-992-3969
DERMATOLOGY
Vince Afsahi Skin cancer treatment and laser surgery Tustin 714-508-0754 Michelle Aszterbaum Skin cancer Newport Beach 949-525-0700
January 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 73
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 Bobby F. Awadalla Comprehensive medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology Mission Viejo 949-545-6605 Jonathan Baron Skin cancer surgery Santa Ana 714-547-5151 Tanya Evans Clinical trials Laguna Niguel 949-707-5734 Zenovia Gabriel Newport Beach 949-655-7417 Linda Golkar Medical and pediatric dermatology Yorba Linda 714-577-6666 Matthew Goodman Skin cancer and Mohs surgery Newport Beach 714-955-1214 Kristen M. Kelly Laser surgery, vascular birthmarks, scar treatment Irvine 949-824-0606 Marit K. Kreidel K Irvine 949-262-5600 Patrick K. Lee Mohs micrographic surgery Irvine 949-824-1661 Anne Marie McNeill Laser surgery, cosmetic dermatology, vulvar dermatology Newport Beach 949-707-7886 Nissan Pilest Irvine 949-727-3800 Rana Rofagha Sajjadian K Mohs surgery Irvine 888-988-2800 Hege Grande Sarpa K Mission Viejo 888-988-2800 Brian R. Toy Medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology Mission Viejo 949-364-6580
DEVELOPMENTALBEHAVIORAL PEDIATRICS
Peter J. Chung Autism and technology Santa Ana 949-267-0400 Robin B. Steinberg Epstein Autism, ADHD, anxiety, learning disorders Santa Ana 949-267-0400
DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY
Arash Anavim Quality and patient safety Orange 714-456-6921 Azita Behrashi Breast radiology Mission Viejo 949-413-5592 Michael BrantZawadzki Neuroradiology, physician management, health policy, research Newport Beach 949-764-5942 Joseph E. Burns Musculoskeletal imaging and intervention Orange 714-456-7237 Miles Chang Body imaging, ultrasound Newport Beach 949-764-5736 Luke Cheung Ultrasound, CT, MRI Newport Beach 949-764-5736 Eleanor Chu Neuroradiology Orange 714-456-6921 Freddie Combs Breast radiology Costa Mesa 949-515-3544 Stephen Feig Breast imaging Orange 714-425-6340 Maryam GolshanMomeni Musculoskeletal radiology, pediatric radiology Orange 714-456-6921
74 O R A N G E C O A S T • January 2022
Mohammad Helmy Ultrasound, body imaging Orange 714-456-8977 Roozbeh Houshyar Prostate cancer Orange 714-456-6921 Michael Jung Neuroradiology Irvine 949-645-3534 J. Andrew Keyoung Advanced body MRI imaging Newport Beach 949-764-5736 January Lopez Breast imaging Newport Beach 949-764-5780 Mark Masotto Abdominal and urologic imaging Orange 714-997-4762 Kenneth Meng Breast imaging Orange 714-771-8360 Kirk Ohanian Neuroradiology Orange 714-997-4762 Elizabeth Pusey Women's imaging Newport Beach 949-645-2321 Hieu Truong Nuclear medicine, PET-CT, musculoskeletal imaging Orange 714-771-8171 Dan Vu Thoracic and cardiac imaging Orange 714-997-4764 Scott Williams Body imaging, cardiovascular imaging, 3D imaging Newport Beach 949-764-5736 Nina Woldenberg Breast imaging Newport Beach 949-764-5780 Humberto Wong Cardiac imaging Newport Beach 949-764-5736 Melissa Yu Neuroradiology Newport Beach 949-764-5736
WHAT IT’S LIKE TO …
CARE FOR PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC DISEASES Dr. Joyce Yu-Chia Lee started the first pharmacistled medication management clinic at the UCI Health Family Health Center in Anaheim, where she treated Tantya Strong of Buena Park. —as told to Valerie Takahama oyce Yu-Chia Lee: My first day starting at UCI was the first day of the workfrom-home order. Initially, I was waiting awhile to start the clinic, but then I realized that chances are there will never be a perfect time. We want to make sure that these patients’ care won’t get delayed because of the pandemic. It’s called a CMM or Comprehensive Medication Management clinic. I call it by the acronym CARE PILLS for what the pharmacists do. “C” stands for closer monitoring, for example. I didn’t want it to be named after a condition, such as diabetes clinic or hypertension clinic. I want it to be more patient-friendly. Chronic diseases have no cures. A lot of times, these conditions will need continuous monitoring. As we get older, our body function changes, so the medications patients are on won’t be the same throughout their entire lives. Those need to be adjusted according to their kidney function, for example, or the disease progression. The pharmacists have a huge role in helping these patients because the medications are the key to keeping them in control. The purpose of this CMM clinic is to look at the patient more holistically. We don’t just look at medication and forget about everything else. For myself, I remind patients that if you can continue with lifestyle modifications, if you can exercise and tolerate it, if you can try to control the disease by selecting food portions and food types, I might be able to reduce the medications for you. Sometimes lifestyle modification can get really tiring and some patients get really stressed. They will need a figure who will be a cheerleader. “You’re doing great! Keep it up.” They need encouragement. Chronic diseases mean you are coexisting with the condition for the rest of your life. I always encourage them to take control of their conditions and not let the condition take control of them. You have to decide who’s going to be the boss.
J
Tantya Strong: I saw Dr. Lee first in November of 2020. She asked me to walk her through a regular day during the week and a day on the weekend. “What do you do for a job?” She asked questions to get to know
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 EMERGENCY MEDICINE
me as an individual. She wanted to put herself in my shoes. In 2013, I was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, or the medical term IIH, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, which is basically fluid on the brain. I’ve had three brain surgeries. My blood pressure was uncontrolled. It was all over the place. One day it was like, “Oh, you’re in normal range.” Then three hours later it was like, “Now you’re dying.” Dr. Lee said, “OK, I want you to try this drug.” We tried it; it wasn’t working. Thinking outside the box medication-wise, she said, “We’re going to try something else.” The new medications balanced out everything. Now every time I go to the doctor, it’s nothing like it was before. Because of the pandemic, I’ve never met her in person, but anytime we connected on a video chat, she was very happy to see me, and I was very happy to see her. Knowing that I had somebody on my side who cares—and you can tell she cares about her job and her patients. With Dr. Lee, I wasn’t just a number. She actually took the time to make me feel like an individual person.
Amin Abdi Emergency and point-of-care ultrasound Laguna Beach 949-364-1400 Patrick Aguilera Fountain Valley 714-966-8105 Eric Alcouloumre Newport Beach 949-764 5689 Carrie Chandwani Orange 714-456-5705 Ahmed Elrefaie Irvine 949-764-4624 Darrin Fryer Travel medicine Newport Beach 949-764-5689 Matthew J. Hunt Newport Beach 949-764-8376 Albert Jin K Anaheim 714-644-2800 Robert Katzer Emergency medical services, air medical transport Orange 714-456-5239 Timothy Korber Sports, COVID-19 Fountain Valley 714-966-8105 Richard Kozak Mission Viejo 949-364-1400 x7476 Shadi Lahham Orange 714-456-5705 Mark I. Langdorf Medical education Orange 714-456-5239 Gregory S. LaSala Medical toxicology Orange 714-543-8911 Brian S. Lee Physician leadership and clinical informatics Orange 714-543-8911 John B. Lee Mission Viejo 949-365-2202 Shahram Lotfipour Public health and injury prevention Orange 714-456-2326
Robert McCormick K Medical informatics Anaheim 714-644-2842 Matthew Mullarky Orange 714-543-8911 Todd R. Newton K Anaheim 714-644-4103 Megan Boysen Osborn Medical education Orange 714-456-5239 Karin Reed Newport Beach 949-764 5689 Michael Ritter Toxicology Mission Viejo 949-365-2202 Melissa A. Rudolph Informatics, quality Orange 714-543-8911 Dina Seif Infusion medicine, ketamine treatment, emergency ultrasound Laguna Beach 949-364-1400 x7476 Chien Sun K Irvine 949-932-2800 Michelle Tom Hospice, geriatrics, population health Laguna Hills 949-452-3569 Shannon Toohey Orange 714-456-5239 Alisa Wray Orange 714-456-5705 Christepher Yao Orange 714-543-8911
ENDOCRINOLOGY, DIABETES, AND METABOLISM
Sandra Kwak Thyroid disorders Newport Beach 949-645-8800 Andrew Reikes Thyroid issues, osteoporosis, diabetes, pituitary diseases Irvine 949-824-8600
Priya K. Shah Thyroid disease, thyroid cancer, PCOS, diabetes Orange 714-771-5700 Qin Yang Irvine 949-824-8600
FACIAL PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Rami Batniji Deep plane facelift/ necklift, rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty Newport Beach 949-650-8882 Steven Daines Face and neck lift, rhinoplasty, injectables Newport Beach 949-209-1622 Alexis D. Furze Sinus, rhinoplasty and nasal surgery Newport Beach 800-498-3223 Simon Madorsky Nasal reconstruction, rhinoplasty Newport Beach 949-719-1800 Sunny Park Nasal/ear reconstruction, rhinoplasty, otoplasty, blepharoplasty Newport Beach 949-873-5089 Brian J.F. Wong Rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, nasal reconstruction Irvine 949-824-7997
FAMILY MEDICINE
Fred Alamshaw, D.O. K Yorba Linda 888-988-2800 James H. Ashizawa San Juan Capistrano 949-661-9600 Ani Atoian K Irvine 888-988-2800 Thomas Badin Preventive health care, annual physical exams Santa Ana 714-355-9444
January 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 75
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 Rhett Bartolome, D.O. K Post hospital transition of care Anaheim 833-574-2273 Neetu A. Bhola K Geriatrics Anaheim 888-988-2800 Lance Brunner K Geriatrics, infection control Brea 888-988-2800 Thanh Bui K Plant-based diet Garden Grove 714-741-3572 Ming (Andy) Chen, D.O. K Physician education, physician wellness, medical mission Santa Ana 800-464-4000 Clifford Clinton K Orange 888-988-2800 Wendy Coling K Preventive care, women's health Anaheim 888-988-2800 Kara Cummins K Graduate medical education Santa Ana 714-967-4766 Alec V. Does K Hypertension Yorba Linda 714-985-3533 Liza Eshilian-Oates K Women's health Anaheim 714-380-7436 Everard Tesoro Esteban K Lifestyle medicine Anaheim 833-574-2273 Cindy Evans K Developmental disabilities Tustin 888-988-2800 Fred Galluccio Full family, international emergency, sports medicine Newport Beach 949-646-4865 Debra Gutierrez Diabetes Brea 714-449-6900 Elena Hetts K Anaheim 888-988-2800
Shiho Ito Spirituality and whole person care Orange 714-456-8000 Brian Y. Kim Sports medicine Irvine 949-824-8600 William Kim K La Palma 714-562-2389 Elaine King Newport Beach 949-629-2600 Heather Kranitz, D.O. K Mission Viejo 833-574-2273 Christopher Kroner Sports medicine Irvine 949-824-8600 Quynh-Hoa Le, D.O. K Santa Ana 888-988-2800 Michael Y. Lee Leadership and burnout coaching Irvine 949-899-8309 Kevin Liao K HIV La Habra 833-574-2273 Jo Lieberman-Pan Women's health, preventative medicine Fountain Valley 714-549-1300 Lucio Loza K Diabetes, community medicine Santa Ana 714-967-4693 Depinder Mann K Diabetes mellitus Huntington Beach 833-574-2273 José Mayorga Santa Ana 714-480-2443 Scott McIver, D.O. K Aliso Viejo 949-425-3142 Tannaz Meisami Women's health, pediatrics, preventative care Newport Beach 949-644-1025 Sofia Meraz K Women's health, community medicine, behavioral medicine Santa Ana 714-967-4777
76 O R A N G E C O A S T • January 2022
Timothy Munzing K Residency training Santa Ana 714-967-4766 Tan Q. Nguyen Medical humanities Anaheim 714-456-7002 Hiroki Noda K La Habra 714-423-0637 Brian Paik Irvine 949-791-3103 Andrew M. Park K Lake Forest 888-988-2800 Michael Provenghi K Diabetes, medical education Santa Ana 888-988-2800 Debra Reigel K Anaheim 833-574-2273 Doreen Rioux, D.O. Yorba Linda 714-528-4211 Jason Shen K Yorba Linda 714-941-4230 Hal S. Shimazu Lipids, geriatrics Orange 714-997-2899 Angelique Sporty, D.O. K Tustin 888-988-2800 Samuel Sunshine Family and sports medicine, functional medicine Foothill Ranch 949-460-9111 Laura MacKenzie Tangredi, D.O. Osteopathic manipulation Orange 714-639-2600 Baotran Vo Maternity care, women's health Irvine 949-824-8600 Tina Walker K Geriatric medicine, end-of-life care Yorba Linda 714-685-3500 William J. Wang K Brea 888-988-2800 Ken L. Williams Jr., D.O. Irvine 949-333-2999
WHAT IT’S LIKE TO …
GO FROM DOCTOR TO PATIENT Dr. Sarah Lopez Korc of Costa Mesa underwent treatment for breast cancer during the pandemic and came through a better physician. ’m an ER doctor and the patient safety officer at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. I remember in January and February of 2020 being really concerned about an unfamiliar illness that was arriving in the states. By April, there was a lot of fear. I have three young sons, and I was worried about bringing this new illness home. I was trying to stay away from them. I wasn’t allowed upstairs to tuck them in. I slept in a separate room. I remember coming home from a particularly difficult shift late; it was 3 in the morning. I showered, and that’s when I felt my breast nodule. It totally woke me up. I knew. My primary physician, Dr. Elizabeth Yanni, she’s one of the people who really helped save me. She didn’t blow me off. She said, “Oh, this is concerning. Come in tomorrow.” I had just turned 40, so I hadn’t gotten any of my screening mammograms yet. She sent me to get my mammo and an ultrasound, and sure enough, they told me it looked abnormal. I was driving home from the hospital when I got the call with the (biopsy) results. I just remember the doctor telling me, “We see that you have breast cancer. It’s triple negative (meaning fewer options for treatment).” I could barely hear what she was saying because I could hear my heartbeat in my ears. My husband is a physician at Hoag. We got on our phones and texted everyone we knew for recommendations for breast surgeons. Dr. Sadia Khan popped up on different lists. When we looked into it, we recognized that Hoag had this very comprehensive breast cancer center with oncology, radiology, and radiation oncology. I did six months of chemo, including Adriamycin, which one of the doctors nicknamed “the red devil” because it completely tears you apart. I got chemo on Wednesdays so that I could do my admin work and run my meetings on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesday mornings. By Friday, I would be sundowning. Then all Saturday, I’d be either puking or on the bathroom floor, feeling terrible. At the beginning, I was trying to be stoic, a good sport. But then, I was just like, I’m going to die. I was down to 90 pounds. I knew it was working because my breast, where the tumor was, was so painful, I could tell that the tumor was dying. My hair fell out. I had oral lesions. My esophagus, my stomach hurt. It was just a really terrible process. The nurses at the infusion center, they were just
I
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 Alex T. Wu K Residency education, community outreach, preventative care Brea 888-988-2800
FAMILY MEDICINE SPORTS MEDICINE
James C. Hwang K Ultrasound guided procedures, minimally invasive surgery Irvine 888-988-2800
FEMALE PELVIC MEDICINE AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
amazing. They could have had a really rough day, but they never showed it. They’re going through the pandemic, too. Some of them shared with me that they had kids at home doing Zoom (school). They asked about my family and how I was doing. They treated me like a person, like a human being. They saw me. Which is really hard to explain. But they saw me. Dr. Khan was the same way. She never saw me as “the triple-negative breast cancer.” She saw me as Sarah, who’s a physician and has a family and wants to get back to that life. Today, 18 months later, I’m in remission. I am cancer-free, but I’m cautiously optimistic. I’m fullforce back at work at Harbor-UCLA as patient safety officer there and full-force back in the ER working with residents, and I can’t tell you how wonderful it is. You know how I say that the nurses at the infusion center saw me? Well, when I go to work, I see my patients. The good thing is I work with residents so I can help train them to see their patients as people and take their complaints seriously and be able to give some reassurance or follow-up. I have a sticky note on my computer. It says, “Do something that matters.” It is a definite reminder of how fleeting life is. This experience has definitely taught me to savor every moment. —V.T.
Noelani Guaderrama K Irvine 888-988-2800 Jun Ihara K Pelvic prolapse surgery Anaheim 888-988-2800 Felicia L. Lane Orange 714-456-5967 Jennifer K. Lee K Urogynecology Anaheim 714-644-2380 Emily Whitcomb K Irvine 888-988-2800
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Alaa Abousaif Endoscopy, obesity, functional GI disorders Orange 714-835-7700 Donald Abrahm Hepatology Newport Beach 949-631-2670 Shahrooz Bemanian Colonoscopy, endoscopy, cancer prevention, fecal incontinence Irvine 949-612-9090 Kenneth J. Chang Orange 714-456-6187 Philip T. Chen Cap assisted underwater colonoscopy Irvine 949-556-6192
Andrew Q. Giap K Advanced endoscopy, endoscopic ultrasound, biliary endoscopy Anaheim 888-988-2800 Dalia Ibrahim Internal medicine, ketamine therapy, weight loss Laguna Hills 949-452-3933 John G. Lee Endoscopy Orange 714-456-6745 Paul S. Lee Colorectal cancer prevention Irvine 949-612-9090 Roxanne Giselle Lim Acid reflux, small bowel bacterial overgrowth Newport Beach 949-760-0398 Haig Najarian Liver disease Orange 714-835-7700 Phuong Nguyen Therapeutic endoscopy, gastrointestinal cancer, endoscopic fundoplication Newport Beach 949-764-5760 Nimisha Parekh Inflammatory bowel disease, medical education Orange 714-456-6745 Abhay Parikh Newport Beach 949-548 6652 Jason Samarasena Barrett's esophagus, pancreatic cancer, endoscopic resection Orange 714-456-6745 Hardeep Singh Endoscopic ultrasound, hepatology, GI bleeding Newport Beach 714-835-7700 David B. Stanton Inflammatory bowel disease Orange 714-835-5100 Victor Yu Irvine 949-612-9090
GERIATRIC MEDICINE
Lisa M. Gibbs Complex geriatric care, dementia, frailty Orange 714-456-7007 Sonia Sehgal Healthy aging, preventive health care Orange 714-456-5530 Steven P. Tam Orange 714-456-7007
GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY
Lisa Abaid Robotic surgery Newport Beach 949-642-1361 Robert Bristow Orange 714-456-5968 John V. Brown Robotic surgery, gynecologic cancer treatment Newport Beach 949-642-1361 Noah Rodriguez K Minimally invasive and robotic surgery Irvine 949-932-5687 Jay P. Shah K Minimally invasive surgery Irvine 949-485-9412 Devansu Tewari K Ovarian cancer, healthcare policy Irvine 949-932-5692 Krishnansu Tewari Robotics, ovarian cancer surgery, clinical trials Orange 714-456-8020
GYNECOLOGY
Patricia Korber Contraception, menorraghia, menopausal symptoms Newport Beach 949-423-7384 Heather Macdonald Breast surgery Irvine 949-557-0186
January 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 77
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 HEMATOLOGY
Lauren PinterBrown Lymphoma Orange 714-456-8000 Richard Van Etten Leukemia and myeloproliferative neoplasms Orange 714-456-8031
HEMATOLOGY AND MEDICAL ONCOLOGY Nishan Tchekmedyian Lung and prostate cancer clinical research Huntington Beach 714-252-9415
INFECTIOUS DISEASE Lanny L. Hsieh Orange 714-456-5726 Tuan Ta HIV Santa Ana 714-664-0045
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Kareem Aboutalib, D.O. K Hospitalist medicine Anaheim 714-644-2000 Hany Bashandy Hospitalist Newport Beach Erica Childs K Santa Ana 888-988-2800 Emilie L. Chow Pediatrics Orange 714-456-7016 Jane Curtis Diagnosis and management of complicated cases Santa Ana 714-288-3230 Karen Don Fountain Valley 714-965-2500 Hoang S. (Bryan) Dong K International health Anaheim 714-644-2000 Michael Gray Hospital medicine Newport Beach Susan Hodes K Hospitalist Anaheim 888-988-2800
Ke-Qin Hu Liver specialist in various liver diseases Orange 714-456-7642 Patty Huang Hospital medicine Newport Beach 877-742-4624 Sonali Iyer Hospital medicine Orange 714-456-5960 Joel Katz Hospitalist, inpatient medicine and quality improvement Newport Beach 877-742-4624 Ewa Kontny Geriatrics Irvine 714-614-2917 Meenu Kwatra K Adept stakeholder of quality review, ethics Irvine 949-932-5000 Henry (Hyun Doo) Lee K Irvine 949-932-5000 Theodore Lee K Hospitalist Irvine 888-988-2800 Victoria Leigh, D.O. Tustin 714-505-7110 David Liao Hospital medicine Newport Beach 888-655-8463 Melanie Lin Preventative care, coding Anaheim 888-449-9303 Michael Liu K Anaheim 714-644-2000 Priya Bhatia Monahan K Hospital medicine, mind-body wellness Irvine 949-932-5000 Bavani Nadeswaran Bariatric medicine Orange 714-456-8773 Maryam Rahimi Orange 714-456-7016 Sonal Sakariya Hospitalist, transitions of care Orange 714-628-3136
78 O R A N G E C O A S T • January 2022
Bahar Sedarati Digital health, organizational leadership, emotional intelligence Irvine 310-980-1781 Rajesh Swaroop K Quality and patient safety Irvine 833-574-2273 Amy Teresi Endocrinology Newport Beach 949-644 3568 Tuan Trinh Fullerton 714-447-5027 Lawrence Richard Van Meter Newport Beach 949-566-8179 Samy A. Younis Geriatric medicine, women's health, chemical dependency Irvine 949-451-9292
INTERNAL MEDICINE WITH A FOCUSED PRACTICE IN HOSPITAL MEDICINE Weston Chandler Hospital medicine Newport Beach Alex Leung Fullerton 714-447-5027
INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY Ihab Alomari Structural heart disease Orange 714-456-3868
INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY
Nadine Abi-Jaoudeh Interventional oncology Orange 714-456-2389 Dayantha M. Fernando Interventional oncology and liver directed therapies Orange 714-456-7237 Trushar Patel Vascular/venous disease, interventional oncology Newport Beach 949-764-7365
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO …
FIGHT CANCER AND COVID-19 AT THE SAME TIME Erin Soto, a young mother of four from Rancho Mission Viejo, uses her experiences to support and inspire cancer patients. he scary part about colorectal cancer is the symptoms are very easy to dismiss. There are digestive problems that can range from constipation to diarrhea or both. You can get (those symptoms) from eating too much cheese. So I dismissed them for a really long time, a dangerously long time. I was 37. I was in very good health. I’m a runner. I don’t smoke. I had gone in for a full physical and was given a clean bill of health. Then on Thanksgiving of 2019, I woke up that night because I’d eaten a lot of food on the holiday, and I had this terrible pain. I thought my appendix had burst. I had no idea what was going on, but it was unbearable. The doctors ordered up a colonoscopy, and that’s how I was diagnosed. With colon cancer, when caught early enough, you can have the surgery and move on with your life. But I found out that it was in the lymph nodes, and I was going to require chemotherapy and ongoing treatment. After eight months, I was on round 11 of treatment, the end was in sight. It was Fourth of July 2020—before we had vaccinations and before we knew much about treating COVID-19—and I let my guard down a little too soon. I ventured out of my house, and I got COVID-19, and it hit hard. I was unconscious. My mom drove me to Kaiser Permanente in Irvine. I was in the ICU within an hour. I got very sick, very fast. Fluid filled my lungs. I was on my belly. I was unable to breathe. They were at the point of bringing in supplemental oxygen. You’re isolated, you’re alone. Not having my husband or my family or my children around and growing so weak. … I’ll admit at the weakest point, I kind of said to the universe and to God, “Maybe this is meant to happen. So just take me now. I don’t think I can do this anymore.” Somehow, by what the doctors say, it was a miracle, really: In a matter of a few days, I went from being dangerously sick to being discharged. And it was so amazing that when they wheeled me out, all the nurses lined the hallways. They were working tirelessly. They are true heroes. They said, “The fact that you, of all patients, are getting out in seven days gives us hope to keep going.” It was really emotional. I have so much respect for everyone at Kaiser in Irvine, all of my doctors, all of the people who cared for me. I’m coming up now on my first year of being cancer-
T
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE
Judith Chung Diabetes and pregnancy Orange 714-456-5967 Anna M. Galyean K Prenatal ultrasound, pre-term labor, cervical insufficiency Irvine 949-932-5652 Tamera J. Hatfield Orange 714-456-7879 Jennifer Jolley Prenatal diagnosis, fetal intervention Orange 714-456-5967 James Kurtzman Twins, preterm prevention, cervical insufficiency, ultrasound Irvine 949-336-7337 Carol Major Diabetes and highrisk pregnancy Orange 714-456-6707
MEDICAL ONCOLOGY
free, and I’ve written a book, “The Mother of All Fights.” I really wanted to share very personal details of what I learned. One of the main topics I cover is what parenting with cancer is like. My children ranged in age from 4 to 11 when I was diagnosed. As much as you want to protect your children from having to deal with crises, everybody is going to go through this together. It was really hard on all of us. One of the biggest takeaways I learned is that as much as we tried to have our children feel comfortable in coming to Mom or Dad if something upset them, they still have hard questions. And sometimes they didn’t feel comfortable coming to ask me. So they’d go to their teacher or they’d go to the parent of a friend. Making sure that you have specific people you trust available to check in with your children is some of the best advice I can offer.—V.T.
Samina Ahmed K Anaheim 888-988-2800 Paul Coluzzi Breast cancer Orange 949-870-6778 Farshid Dayyani Orange 714-456-8000 Angela G. Fleischman Myeloproliferative neoplasm, blood cancers Costa Mesa 949-999-2400 Deepa Jeyakumar Leukemias, myelodysplastic syndrome Orange 714-456-5153 Haresh S. Jhangiani Novel therapies, research, teaching Fountain Valley 714-698-0300 Khosrow Mahdavi Hematologic malignancies, benign hematology Costa Mesa 949-999-2400
Nataliya Mar Genito-urinary malignancies Orange 714-456-8000 Edward L. Nelson Hematologic malignancies Orange 714-456-5153 Tara Seery Cellular therapy, GI oncology Irvine 949-764-5347 Wade Smith Breast cancer Newport Beach 949-763-2204 Jason Zell, D.O. Colorectal cancer, cancer prevention Orange 714-456-5153
NEONATAL MEDICINE
Fayez M. BanyMohammed Orange 714-456-6933 Rebecca J. Coleman Resuscitation/simulation, palliative care, breastfeeding, nutrition Orange 714-456-6933 David Hicks Orange 714-456-3096 Sudeep Kukreja Medical volunteerism, patient advocacy Orange 714-509-4373 Jina Lim Orange 714-509-4373 Prasanthi K. Mishra K Quality improvement, physician wellness Anaheim 714-644-7040 Yona Nicolau Orange 714-456-6933 Piyush Patel K Anaheim 714-644-7040 Katarzyna J. Tesmer Aesthetic medicine Orange 714-509-3096 Cherry C. Uy Orange 714-456-6933
NEONATALPERINATAL MEDICINE
Irfan Ahmad Surgical NICU and quality improvement Orange 714-509-8632 Amir Ashrafi Neonatal cardiovascular intensive care and hemodynamics Orange 714-509-4373 Muhammad Aslam Stem cells, lung disease, pulmonary hypertension Orange 714-456-6933 Daryoush Bassiri EMR, neonatal educational outreach Orange 714-509-4373 Kushal Bhakta Care of extremely low birth weight infant Orange 714-509-3096 Christine Bixby Breastmilk medicine Orange 714-509-4373 John Cleary Cardiac and mechanical support for neonates Orange 714-509-3096 Marielle Nguyen K Developmental care preterm infants, quality improvements Anaheim 714-644-7040 Lavonne Sheng Infection prevention, antibiotic stewardship Orange 714-509-4373 Sandra ShortBartlett K Life support, respiratory syncytial virus Anaheim 714-644-7040 Monica N. Sondhi Orange 714-509-8882 John Tran Neuro-critical NICU Orange 714-509-3096
January 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 79
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 NEPHROLOGY
Behzad Alimohammadi K ESRD and home dialysis Irvine 949-932-2507 Stephanie Cheung K Anaheim 888-988-2800 Kamyar KalantarZadeh Orange 714-456-5142 Sinjoo Kim K Anaheim 714-644-2305 Tam Pham K Irvine 888-988-2800 Uttam Reddy Kidney transplantation Orange 714-456-5142 Connie M. Rhee Orange 714-456-5142
NEUROLOGY
Yama Akbari Neurocritical care, coma, cardiac arrest, consciousness Irvine 949-824-1888 Daniela A. Bota Neurological oncology Orange 714-456-7214 Sirichai Chayasirisobhon K Epilepsy Anaheim 714-644-2325 Cyrus Dastur Neurocritical care Orange 714-456-7210 Mark J. Fisher Stroke neurology Orange 714-456-5091 Joey Gee, D.O. Headache medicine Mission Viejo 949-542-8002 Namita A. Goyal Neuromuscular disease Orange 714-456-2332 Xiao-Tang Kong Neuro-oncology Orange 714-456-8311
Tahseen Mozaffar Neuromuscular disorders Orange 714-456-2238 S. Mohammad H. Shafie Ischemic/hemorrhagic stroke, TIA, cerebrovascular disease Orange 714-456-7637 Sara J. Stern-Nezer Neurocritical care, stroke, medical education Orange 714-456-7890 Gaby T. Thai Orange 714-456-6806
NUCLEAR MEDICINE Tatiana Kain Molecular imaging Orange 714-456-6132
OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY
Morris Ahdoot Infertility, high-risk pregnancy, menopause symptoms Irvine 949-453-1173 Kathy M. Anderson Regenerative medicine Santa Ana 714-547-7575 Monica Aszterbaum Minimally invasive and robotic surgery Irvine 949-559-1911 Leon Baginski Laparoscopic/robotic surgery, endometriosis, high-risk obstetrics Mission Viejo 949-276-6266 Julisa Bravo K Teaching and mentoring Santa Ana 714-796-4812 Dennis J. Buchanan Fullerton 714-992-5350 Jennifer Butler OBG hospitalist Orange 714-456-7733
80 O R A N G E C O A S T • January 2022
Scott E. Capobianco Certified in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery Mission Viejo 949-364-1040 Rebecca Conrad Dominguez Newport Beach 949-283-3379 Christopher T. Donnelly K Minimally invasive surgery Santa Ana 949-932-7031 Janis D. Fee Maternity, robotic surgery, adolescent gynecology Orange 714-282-1892 Nicte Flores K Irvine 949-932-5655 Felice Gersh Women's health/integrative medicine Irvine 949-753-7475 Debra R. Gierut K San Juan Capistrano 888-988-2800 Afshan B. Hameed Maternal heart disease, anticoagulation in pregnancy Orange 714-456-7879 Tabetha Harken Family planning, cesarian scar pregnancies Orange 714-456-5967 Christina Hong K Minimally invasive gyn surgery, colposcopy, HPV Irvine 888-988-2800 Candace Howe Chronic pelvic pain Newport Beach 949-646-2800 Cambria L. Kang K Minimally invasive surgery, value based healthcare Irvine 833-574-2273 Christine Kim OB hospitalist medicine, medical education Orange 714-456-7733
WHAT IT’S LIKE TO ...
DELIVER A BABY AT 24 WEEKS Jessica and Seth Inyang of Anaheim became parents four months earlier than planned. —as told to Astgik Khatchatryan essica: I had a great pregnancy up until I started getting severe shortness of breath. I went to my OB, and she recommended I go to the ER at Hoag and they admitted me. I had developed preeclampsia, and I was only 24 weeks and five days. They were trying to get my blood pressure under control. I spent one night in the hospital and then the next day they said they had to deliver the baby. It was scary, but we met with Dr. (Marlin) Mills and he really made us feel like we could trust them. Seth: He was very comforting. I just didn’t know what to expect at all. When they first admitted Jessica, they said she’d have to stay until the baby was delivered, so I thought, “Wow, I guess we’ll be here for quite a few weeks.” Then suddenly she was being delivered the next day. I just went with the flow. Jessica: April 22, I had an emergency C-section and our daughter, Westin, was born, only 1 pound 1 ounce. Later the doctors told us she was probably even less than that because they weighed her with all the tubes and everything. Seth: She did let out a small little cry. Jessica: Dr. Vladana Milisavljevic, the head of the NICU, had told us what to expect once they delivered the baby. She said the No. 1 thing is her lungs, because they’re not fully developed. She was smaller than a Barbie doll. They had to intubate her and keep her warm. It was really scary. It was a packed theater. So many doctors, nurses, and respiratory specialists. It was an all-hands-on-deck situation. We didn’t really realize how rare (our situation) was until we spent the next four months in the NICU. Other preemies would come in who were small, but none of them was as small as Westin. Seth: We had one major scare two days in. I had been able to go to the NICU, but Jessica was still recovering, so she hadn’t even been able to see Westin. Jessica: At 4 in the morning, two nurses came into our room and said, “We think you need to come see the baby.” That was a very scary moment. There were a lot of doctors and nurses around her and we just prayed over her and she pulled through. It wasn’t until much later one of the respiratory therapists said to us that they thought that they were going to lose her that night. Seth: She had a collapsed lung, and I knew it was serious because one of the doctors, I was talking to him and he was just sweating. He was stressed. And I
J
TOP DOCTORS | 2022
was telling him, “Hey it’s going to be fine. I trust you guys.” And then after that scare, it was just ups and downs. At first, she still had the breathing tube in, and I don’t even know the names of all the machines they had to use. It was always two steps forward and one step back. Jessica: The doctors and nurses were so great making sure that we knew what we were in for. They became like family to us because we got to know them so well. Even the receptionists and parking attendant. Westin’s original due date was Aug. 7, and we were able to take her home Aug. 13. She didn’t have to go home with oxygen. She was perfectly healthy. The nurses made her a graduation cap, and everyone signed it. Seth: I always knew she was going to make it home. I was never really worried. Jessica: He was strong for the both of us.
Michael Krychman Sexual medicine, survivorship, menopause, vulvar health Orange 949-764-9300 Phong Q. Lai, D.O. K Resident education and medical missions Irvine 888-988-2800 Vivian Lin Fullerton 714-992-5350 Neal Lonky K Colposcopy, health policy and management Anaheim 888-988-2800 Akta Patel K Santa Ana 714-796-4881 Rachel Perry Family planning Orange 714-456-2911 Manuel Porto High-risk pregnancy, fetal therapy, twins Orange 714-456-6427 Paula Richter K Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery Irvine 888-988-2800 Lauren A. Rubal Reproductive endocrinology and infertility, integrative medicine Newport Beach 949-415-6704 Debora Sedaghat, D.O. Fountain Valley 714-966-2112 Betty Shen K Irvine 949-932-5613 Vinita Jain Speir Newport Beach 949-644-2722 Patrick Thein Orange 714-809-8784 Mary C. Washburn K Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery Anaheim 714-795-1055 Carla Wells High-risk obstetrics and robotic surgery Irvine 949-559-1911
Lawrence B. Werlin Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis Irvine 949-726-0697
OPHTHALMOLOGY
Sean Adrean Specialist in retina, macula, vitreous diseases Fullerton 714-738-4620 Suri Appa K Vitreoretinal specialist Tustin 833-574-2273 Anand Bhatt Cataract and glaucoma surgery Santa Ana 714-541-4185 Sanford Chen Vitreo-retinal disease and surgery Newport Beach 949-646-3242 David Chia Comprehensive ophthalmology, cataract, glaucoma, eyelid surgery Irvine 949-753-1163 Emma Clay Comprehensive ophthalmology Los Alamitos 562-598-7728 R. Wade Crow Neuro-ophthalmology Irvine 949-824-7944 Rishi Doshi K Medical retina Tustin 888-988-2800 Charles W.G. Eifrig Retina surgery Laguna Hills 949-707-5125 Melanie Ho Erb Lasers, injectables, cosmetic and oculoplastic surgery Irvine 949-727-0102 Marjan Farid Cornea, cataract, refractive surgery Irvine 949-824-2020 Sumit (Sam) Garg Cararact/corneal surgery Irvine 949-824-2020
Ronald N. Gaster Cornea, cataract, refractive, cross-linking surgery Fountain Valley 855-393-3622 Carl T. Hartman Cataract surgery Los Alamitos 562-598-7728 John A. Hovanesian Cataract, refractive, cornea and pterygium surgery Laguna Hills 949-951-2020 John Hwang Retina surgery and diseases Laguna Hills 949-707-5125 Jeffrey Joseph Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery Newport Beach 949-424-3524 Peter Joson Glaucoma and cataract surgery San Clemente 949-489-2218 Sanjay Kedhar Cornea, cataract, uveitis, ocular inflammation Irvine 949-824-2020 Diana H. Kersten Cataract/refractive surgery, anterior segment disease Laguna Hills 949-951-2020 Brian T. Kim Retina, cataracts Laguna Hills 949-951-2020 Edward W. Kim Cataract surgery, anterior segment diseases Laguna Hills 949-951-2020 Kenneth B Krantz K Oculoplastic surgery Santa Ana 888-988-2800 Baruch D. Kuppermann Retina Irvine 949-824-8089 Ken Lin Glaucoma and cataract surgery Irvine 949-824-7944
January 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 81
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 Stephanie Lu Retina and vitreous Irvine 949-824-6256 Desmond McGuire Retina surgery Santa Ana 714-543-6020 Ashish Manilal Mehta K Pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus Yorba Linda 714-864-9501 Mitul Mehta Vitreous retina surgery AMD diabetic retinopathy Irvine 949-824-2020 Sameh Mosaed Cataract and glaucoma surgery Irvine 949-824-4122 Nika Omid Laser cataract surgery, cosmetic eyelid surgery Irvine 949-652-2020 J. Sebag Vitreous, macula, retina, surgery, lasers, injections Huntington Beach 714-901-7777 Samir Shah Custom laser cataract surgery, corneal transplantation Huntington Beach 714-965-9696 Shaival Shah K Pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus Tustin 888-988-2800 Aisha Simjee Orange 714-771-2022 Jeremiah Tao Oculoplastic, orbital, and facial cosmetic surgery Irvine 949-824-2020 Michael K. Tran Comprehensive ophthalmology, cataract, glaucoma Westminster 714-839-2077 Matthew Wade Cornea, refractive surgery, Lasik, cataract Irvine 949-824-4122
Alison Wong K Cataract surgery La Palma 888-988-2800 Timothy T. You Retinal subspecialist Santa Ana 714-972-8432 Jared Younger Laser cataract surgery Fountain Valley 714-546-2020 Kevin Yuhan K Cataracts, cornea, refractive, ocular surface tumors Mission Viejo 800-443-0815
OTOLARYNGOLOGY/ HEAD-NECK SURGERY Gurpreet S. Ahuja Pediatric airway; ear, nose, and throat disorders Orange 714-633-4020 William B. Armstrong Head and neck oncology, thyroid/ parathyroid surgery Orange 714-456-5750 Ashley Balaker Hearing loss and balance disorders Newport Beach 949-364-4361 Naveen Bhandarkar Rhinology/sinus and skull base surgery Orange 714-456-5753 James Bredenkamp Endocrine surgery and oncology Mission Viejo 949-364-4361 Felizardo Camilon Jr. Pediatric otolaryngology Orange 714-836-6607 Theodore Chen K Rhinoplasty, skin cancer reconstruction, thyroid surgery Irvine 888-988-2800 Michael Cho Sinus disorders, ear disorders Mission Viejo 949-364-4361 Dennis Crockett Pediatric otolaryngology Mission Viejo 949-364-4361
82 O R A N G E C O A S T • January 2022
Roger L. Crumley Sleep apnea, laryngology, general ENT Orange 714-456-8766 Hamid Djalilian Ear and skull base surgery, hearing balance disorders Orange 714-456-5853 Rohit Garg K Rhinology and skull base surgery Anaheim 714-644-2093 Kevin Huoh Pediatric otolaryngology, pediatric thyroid surgery, vascular malformations Orange 714-633-4020 David Keschner K Rhinology Irvine 949-233-0281 Harrison Lin Neurotology and skull base surgery Orange 714-456-5753 Jagmeet Mundi Sinus surgery; head and neck cancer Irvine 949-364-4361 Nguyen Pham Hearing disorders, cochlear implants, cleft care Orange 714-633-4020 Terry Shibuya K Skull base surgery, H&N surgery oncology Anaheim 714-644-2093 Jack Shohet Hearing loss rehabilitation Newport Beach 949-631-4327 Christopher Thompson Sinus disease Mission Viejo 949-364-4361 Sunil Verma Voice and swallowing Orange 714-456-5753 Phillip Wells San Clemente 949-496-2307 TURN TO PAGE 152 for the continuation of Top Doctors 2022
WHAT IT’S LIKE TO ...
RECEIVE A STEM CELL TRANSPLANT After battling lymphoma for two years, Sean Ramos underwent the life-saving procedure at UCI Health, the only place in O.C. where adults can get stem cell transplants. was diagnosed in April 2018. I was not feeling well. Chronic fatigue, feeling really run down. I went to the emergency room because I was having terrible stomach pain. They did an MRI and informed me that I had lymphoma. I was originally misdiagnosed in that I did have lymphoma but the type of lymphoma was inaccurate. I live in Riverside, so this was at a different hospital. My wife pushed to get a second opinion because we felt like we were not getting the proper care. That’s when I met Dr. Pinter-Brown at UCI Health, and we got everything squared away. It turned out I had a pretty rare form of lymphoma that was very aggressive. I was on an aggressive regimen of chemotherapy every three weeks until September or October. And then I got my first stem cell transplant. At the time, UCI didn’t have the stem cell program, so I had to go to City of Hope. I did an auto transplant with my own stem cells. After that, I was cancer-free for a little over a year, and then I got rediagnosed in early 2020. The next step was an allo transplant, which is from a donor. I was still under the care of Dr. PinterBrown. She called me and said, “Hey, we have started a stem cell program, and we have a great doctor, Dr. (Stefan) Ciurea. We can get you in and get you into remission, and within a month we can do a stem cell transplant.” I have six sisters. They were lining up to be donors. It was a little bit of a competition about who was going to be the best match. My youngest sister ended up being the donor. They had to cleanse me of the cancer and drop my immune system to zero. Like pushing a reset button. And they harvested the stem cells from my sister’s blood. There’s always a risk factor, although minimal. They had to give her a growth factor injection to get her body to make more stem cells than normal. But it’s a lot less painful than what they used to do, which is getting stem cells from bone marrow. The transplant was done Oct. 28, 2020. It’s my new birthday. Recovery can take a year or longer, so it has been tough. It’s had its ups and downs, but more ups than downs. I’m not where I want to be yet in terms of energy levels, but with some real diligent work I feel like I will get stronger. So far, there’s no indication of any cancer. All of my bloodwork has been fantastic. I
I
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 To be selected for the 2022 Physicians of Excellence, applicants were required to meet the following baseline criteria: Be certified by a member board of the American Board of Medical Specialties, a member board of the American Board of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, or an equivalency board recognized by the Medical Board of California or Osteopathic Medical Board of California Be in good standing with Medical Board of California or Osteopathic Medical Board of California
Maintain primary practice in O.C. for the past five years (post-residency, fellowship training)
Be in practice within specialty field for the past five years (post-residency, fellowship training)
Applicants were required to meet at least two of these four criteria, as determined by the Selection Committee. Discretion was used. Physician Leadership
Recent (within past three years) positions as an elected or appointed member of a medical organization. Excludes full-time paid administrative positions, though a paid position as a medical director is acceptable. Recent (within past three years) elected/appointed positions as a member of a peer-review organization/journal.
Teaching/Mentoring/Medical Research/Scientific Advances
Recent (within past three years, with at least one in past year) medical school or university faculty appointment and/or involvement in teaching of other physicians, medical students, and pre-med students, or other healthcare professionals on an ongoing basis. Delivering medical education (within past three years, with at least one in past year) Currently (within three years) active in peer-reviewed clinical research activities, have unique skills within field of nomination. Pharmaceutical clinical trials do not qualify.
Humanitarian Service
Current (within past three years, with at least one in past year) activities and names of affiliated organizations while serving as a volunteer physician outside applicant’s regular practice, not receiving compensation, or philanthropic activities supporting medicine. This does not include providing care as part of applicant’s regular practice for which applicant was not compensated.
Unique Contributions and Community Service
Current (within one year) significant community leadership positions such as PTA president, district school board member, youth coach, scout leader, etc. Community service outside medicine, or other unique contributions
Orange County Medical Association Board of Directors, 2021-22 Christopher Celio, M.D., president Vijay Dhar, M.D., president-elect William O. Woo, M.D., secretary-treasurer Jason Cord, M.D., immediate past president Eric H. Ball, M.D. Nikan Khatibi, D.O. Atashi Mandal, M.D. Shalini Shah, M.D. Alpesh Amin, M.D., UC Irvine Connie Bartlett, D.O., St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group
Amber Burnette, M.D., Southern California Permanente Medical Group Crispina Chong-Han, M.D. – Southern California Permanente Medical Group Anjalee Galion, M.D., CHOC Pediatric Subspecialty Faculty Angelia Sidarta, D.O, St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group Kerrie Buehler, medical student co-representative Christopher Sahagian, medical student co-representative
Physicians of Excellence Selection Committee
Members of the OCMA Board of Directors and the Physicians of Excellence Selection Committee are not eligible to be selected as a Physician of Excellence.
can’t stress enough the importance of the inception of the UCI stem cell transplant program. I would not be here without the savvy of Dr. Pinter-Brown and Dr. Ciurea and his team. People will give you the rah-rah story: “You can’t quit, you’ve got to fight, stay positive.” And the bottom line is you really truly are fighting a battle. It takes a physiological toll and a huge mental toll. If you don’t have a strong support system, it can be devastating. I wish everyone had the support system I have. My work truly supported me in any way they could. My sisters were a great support system. I have four children (ages 20, 17, 13, and 8) and they really stepped up. With them, not fighting is not an option. How can I look at my kids every day and just say I’m quitting? I’d be quitting on them. My wife was my rock and biggest advocate. When your world is turned upside down, you need someone like that to guide you in the right direction. —A.K.
William Woo, M.D., chair, physician recognition committee; OCMA secretary-treasurer; assistant chief of Family Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Orange County; volunteer clinical professor, Department of Family Medicine, UC Irvine; past president, California Academy of Family Physicians Orange County Chapter Whitney Ayers, MPA, regional vice president, Hospital Association of Southern California Katie Cawelti, Director of operations at Curt Pringle & Associates, chair and executive committee member of the Advisory Board for the Orange County Salvation Army, advisory council member for the Salvation Army Anaheim Adult Rehabilitation Center., past president of the Orange Chamber of Commerce Board, past committee chair and executive committee member for the Orange County Forum, 2020 Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce 40 under 40 honoree Jason Cord, M.D., OCMA past president and physician recognition committee member; regional chair breast imaging, SCPMG; chief of radiology and interventional radiology, Orange County radiology, SCPMG; government relations lead, Orange County, SCPMG Vivien Chan, M.D., DFAPA, DFAACAP; chief of psychiatry and mental health services,, student health center, UCI; clinical professor, department of psychiatry and human behavior, UCI Health; medical director, Virtual Care Collaborative UC Office of the President Health sponsored by UC San Diego Health;
American Academy of child and adolescent psychiatry, co-chair transitional age youth college student mental health committee Orange County Psychiatric Society Child & Adolescent Psychiatry committee chair Dona Constantine, R.N., B.S., senior risk management and patient safety specialist, Cooperative of American Physicians Inc. Nicholas J. Dolle, CFP associate vice president, financial advisor, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management Katrina Foley, Orange County Supervisor for the Second District; Orange County Behavioral and Mental Health Advisory Board. Lawyer and former mayor of Costa Mesa Richard S. Frankenstein, M.D., past president, California Medical Association; past president OCMA; master of the American College of Physicians Darla S. Holland, M.D., past president OCMA; delegate, CMA house of delegates, vice chair CMA Council on medical services, partner emeritus, SCPMG Tom Loats, MSW, MPA, director, behavioral health services, St. Joseph Hospital (retired) Neha Savalia, M.D. – internal medicine physician; St. Jude Heritage Medical Group Joanna Tan, M.D., past president, OCMA; board of trustees, California Medical Association; physician site medical director, St. Jude Heritage Medical Group; chair, physician wellness, Providence St. Joseph OCHD Jay Zubrin, M.D., past president, OCMA James Peterson, executive director, OCMA
January 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 83
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL P R O F E S S I O N A L S PROFILING THE “BEST OF THE BEST” IN THE O.C. HEALTHCARE COMMUNITY.
January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 93
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
NEWPORT CHILDREN’S MEDICAL GROUP Pediatrics, Adolescent Care, Pulmonary & Critical Care Caring for children takes a special commitment. Serving Orange County for more than 45 years, Newport Children’s Medical Group provides coverage from newborn and primary care to hospital and intensive care. Dr. Zach Reda, medical director: “We guarantee same day & virtual visits in one of our five locations.” NCMG offers 7-days-a-week office hours. When it comes to your child’s health, there is no substitute for experience. NCMG team are all board certified in pediatrics. specialists with additional training in pediatric pulmonary & critical care, hospital medicine, weight control and concussion management. 94 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
For the past 30 years Dr. Reda has served Los Angeles and Orange Counties in the fields of pediatrics, pulmonary and critical care & hospital medicine. His extensive experience with critically ill children has helped him make early diagnoses and ensured better outcomes for his patients. He was selected by hi peers as one of the “Best Doctors of America.” He was also selected as one of the “Best Doctors in CA,” as featured in Los Angeles magazine for the past nine years. He was voted by his peers in the Orange County Medical Association as one of the top doctors in his field, As seen in Orange Coast Magazine for the past 15 years. Every year, Dr. Reda participates in
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
DISTINGUISHED STAFF
multiple international meetings to ensure the best care for his patients. He served on the faculty of UC Irvine and UCLA, and as medical director of PICU at Fountain Valley Regional Hospital for 15 years. NCMG offers pulmonary function testing, BMR caloric measurement, and in-house lab testing, among others. Exercise CPET helps evaluate endurance and exercise intolerance. “We don’t only provide high-quality care, we most importantly care,” says Dr. Reda. NCMG was voted best pediatric practice in Southern California, as seen on KCOP-TV Channel 13’s “Best of L.A.” TV show. • Guarantee same day sick visit [virtual or in person] • Drive Thru Covid testing PCR 1-hour results • Drive Thru Rapid Antigen Covid testing 1-hour results • Covid Vaccine for ages 5-11 years • Open 7 days a week including after hours and most holidays • 24/7 on-call board certified specialist response • Most insurance accepted including Covered California
• Asha Misra, MD, FAAP - Trained at Monmouth University medical center, NJ - Board certified in Pediatrics - Special interest in Newborn and Adolescent Medicine - Served OC communities for over 25 years • Cara Todd, MD, FAAP - Trained at UC Davis - Board Certified in Pediatrics - Special interest in Newborn and Adolescent Medicine - Served OC communities for the past 25 years
• Valerie Sheppard, MD, FAAP - Trained and served as chief resident at Loma Linda University. - Board certified in Pediatrics. - Honored as one of the Top Doctors OCMA, 2021 • Glenn Katz, MD, FAAP - Trained at Miami Children’s Hospital Florida - Extensive experience serving OC over 40 years • Johanna Rodriguez, MD, FAAP - Trained at the university of Puerto Rico, B.C. in Pediatrics - Special interest in newborns, adolescents & inpatient care - Honored as one of the Top Doctors OCMA 2021 • Sandra Kellum, MD, FAAP - Trained & served on the faculty at St. Joseph Children Hospital, New York, college, NJ - Special interest in newborn & Adolescent care
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Newport Children’s Medical Group Newport Beach / Costa Mesa / Irvine / Laguna Beach / Huntington Beach (949) 644-0970 newportchildren.com
Fashion Island Office 1401 Avocado St., Ste. 802 Newport Beach Hoag Hospital
• Alexander Tu, MD, FAAP - Trained at Georgetown, B.C in Pediatrics - Special interest in Newborns, International health & fluent in Mandarin - Honored as Top Pediatrician award 2020
• Frances Duda, MD, FAAP - Trained at USC, special interest in adolescents & ADHD - Extensive experience serving OC over 40 years
• Outdoor evaluation for sick visits
• Telemedicine consultation seven days a week
• Zacharia Reda, MD, FAAP, FCCP - Served OC + LA over 30 years - Honored as one of the “Best Doctors in America” - Honored by OCMA as one of the Top OC Doctors for the past 15 years - Served as Chairman, Department of Pediatrics, and medical director of PICU at FVRH for 15 years - Served as associate medical director of Miller Children’s Hospital PICU - Trained and served on the faculty of USC, UCLA and UCI - Board certified in pediatrics and pediatric critical care & hospital medicine - Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics & College of Chest Physician
Laguna Beach Office 31862 Coast Hwy., Ste. 302 Laguna beach Saddleback Memorial
• Jennifer Nguyen Simpson, MD, FAAP - Graduated from Ross University School of Medicine Trained at Flushing Hospital Medical Center in New York City. - Special interests in newborn care, behavioral & development and adolescent medicine - Dr. Simpson is fluent in English and Vietnamese • Elsa Fernandex, MD, FAAP - Served the community for more than 40 years and as Professor of Pediatrics at UCI
Irvine Office 16300 Sand Canyon, Ste. 488 Irvine Hoag Irvine
Costa Mesa Office 1640 Newport Blvd., Ste. 210 Costa Mesa Hoag Hospital
Mission Office 26800 Crown Valley Pkwy., Ste. 510 Mission Viejo Mission Hospital January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 95
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
CITY OF HOPE ORANGE COUNTY CONGRATULATES 2022 PHYSICIANS OF EXCELLENCE Nishan Tchekmedyian, M.D. Hang T. Dang, D.O., FACOS, FACS Wade Smith, M.D. 96 Ora nge C oast • January 2022
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
City of Hope is answering a call to provide highly specialized cancer care to Orange County. We’re delivering pioneering treatments, nationally recognized compassionate care, and top clinical experts to treat even the most aggressive cancers. We offer nearly 1,000 clinical trials each year and breakthrough treatment options, all delivered by a compassionate team of experts who take your hand and never let go. Our 1,000 physicians, scientists and researchers focus on only one thing—ending cancer.
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
Among our extraordinary cancer experts are the physicians recognized by Orange County Medical Association as Physicians of Excellence for 2022: Nishan Tchekmedyian, M.D. – Recently named Regional Medical Director for City of Hope Orange County, Dr. Tchekmedyian is a board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist who has led innovative research in immunotherapy for advanced prostate cancer and a new targeted therapy for a rare mutation seen in lung and other cancers. Dr. Tchekmedyian has received numerous honors for his research and high-quality, patientfocused care. Hang T. Dang, D.O., FACOS, FACS – Dr. Dang is a fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist with aesthetic fellowship experience who focuses on the treatment of benign and malignant breast diseases at City of Hope Newport Beach Fashion Island. Dr. Dang provides high-quality, patient-focused and personalized cancer care. She has significant experience educating women about breast cancer and is active in numerous professional organizations.
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE
City of Hope Orange County Huntington Beach Irvine Sand Canyon Newport Beach Fashion Island Newport Beach Lido CityofHope.org/OC
Wade Smith, M.D. - Dr. Smith is a boardcertified medical oncologist who specializes in breast cancer treatment and is the Director of Clinical Research at City of Hope Newport Beach Fashion Island. He is an expert in immunotherapy, especially for the treatment of chemotherapy-resistant breast and other cancers. Dr. Smith is a frequent speaker on metastatic breast cancer and remains heavily involved in educating his community on breast cancer awareness/early detection. Thank you, OCMA, for recognizing physicians who bring a higher level of advanced cancer care to Orange County. They are the future of hope. January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 97
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
THE SKIN CANCER AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY CENTER (SCARS CENTER)
AREAS OF EXPERTISE • Skin Checks • Skin Cancer Diagnosis, Management and Treatment • Mohs Surgery • Skin Cancer Reconstruction • Melanoma Treatment
(Left to Right)
Alexander Miller, MD Matthew Goodman, MD Alyssa Flanders, PA-C Adam Aronson, MD Skin Cancer and Reconstructive Surgery Center is Orange County’s premier skin cancer center. The collaborative team approach combines dermatologists, plastic surgeons, pathologists, and surgical oncologists for optimal skin cancer treatment. We are a highly experienced group of physicians dedicated to the treatment of skin cancers. From skin cancer prevention to melanoma treatment, from cancer reconstruction to scar revision, our physicians deliver exceptional results.
98 Ora nge C oast • January 2022
AWARDED 2022
• Nonsurgical Cancer Treatment • Superficial Radiation Therapy • Scar Treatment and Revision
PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE
Our team also leads the way in research with surgical innovations and melanoma treatment. We have established and facilitated the SCARS Center Skin Cancer Conference, held monthly for more than a decade. This unique forum of physicians and scientists, from both academia and private practice, provides an opportunity to share cases, research, and techniques among colleagues on the cutting edge of skin cancer management.
The Skin Cancer and Reconstructive Surgery Center Newport Beach 180 Newport Center Drive, Suite 158 Newport Beach, CA 92660 (949) 719-1800 Yorba Linda 17451 Bastanchury Road, Suite 103A Yorba Linda, CA 92886 (714) 961-0143 ocskincancer.com
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
THE APPEARANCE CENTER OF NEWPORT BEACH Plastic surgery, facial rejuvenation, fillers and injectables
The Appearance Center of Newport Beach offers a comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation. Our board-certified surgeons and dermatologists are experts in combining surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures to achieve natural results. Our practice focuses on facial rejuvenation, facelift, rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty, injectables, facial reconstruction and Mohs reconstruction. Two of our physicians, Dr. Simon Madorsky (our founder) and Dr. Steven Daines, were recently named among America’s Best Plastic Surgeons
Surgical Rejuvenation • Facelift
• Neck Lift
(Left to Right)
Shea Pickering, PA-C Simon Madorsky, MD Steven Daines, MD Justin Karlin, MD
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE
by Newsweek, for both rhinoplasty and facelift surgery. Additionally, Dr. Madorsky was named a top 20 doctor for rhinoplasty in the country. Dr. Justin Karlin, an oculoplastic surgeon and a professor at UCLA, also brings the sophistication of a world class center to the team. Our Appearance Center physicians also share their skills with the SCARS Center (Skin Cancer and Reconstructive Surgery Center). This collaboration allows them to use their talents, from complex reconstructions to scar revisions, to restore form and function to skin cancer patients.
• Rhinoplasty • Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) • Brow Lift • Chin Augmentation • Scar Revision Nonsurgical Rejuvenation • Fillers & Injectables
• Laser Skin Resurfacing • Lip & Cheek Enhancement • Eyelid Rejuvenation • Chemical Peels • Botox
The Appearance Center 180 Newport Center Drive, Suite 164 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-200-1615 appearancecenter.com January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 99
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
SAMIR A. SHAH, MD, MS, FACS Beach Eye Medical Group
Consistently recognized as one of America’s Top Ophthalmologists, Dr. Samir Shah’s clinical expertise lies in advanced cataract surgery, laser vision correction, the latest forms of corneal transplantation, and pterygium excision. Known for his commitment to exceptional patient care, Dr. Shah graduated as valedictorian of his college class at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York. After completing his medical studies at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor, he went on to finish his residency at the prestigious Jules Stein Eye Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles. His exceptional resume combines education, experience and expertise, including a competitive fellowship specializing in Cataract, Cornea, and Refractive Surgery at the world-renowned Johns Hopkins Hospital – Wilmer Eye Institute in Baltimore, Maryland. As a leader in his field, Dr. Shah has published book chapters and peer-reviewed journal articles and has been involved in training future ophthalmologists in the United States as well as abroad. At Aravind Eye Hospital in Madurai, India, he helped restore vision to countless indigent patients so they could lead a fulfilling life again. Passionate about continuing education, he is uniquely skilled in the most advanced technology and surgical techniques available anywhere in the world, and offers patients the most cutting-edge care for optimal outcomes. Respected by patients and peers, Dr. Shah is honored to have many of his fellow physicians trust him with surgery on their own family members. “We offer refined surgical techniques, state-of-the-art equipment, and world-class ophthalmic technology to create vision that will amaze you,” he says. “You have to see it to believe it!”
AWARDED 2022 DIPLOMATE
• The American Board of Ophthalmology
MEMBER
• The American Academy of Ophthalmology • The American Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery • The Cornea Society • The California Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons
100 Ora nge C oast • January 2022
PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Beach Eye Medical Group Huntington Beach 18582 Main Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 714-965-9696 Irvine 4870 Barranca Parkway, Suite 210, Irvine, CA 92604 714-965-9696 Long Beach 2650 Elm Avenue, Suite 108, Long Beach, CA 90806 562-427-5409
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
PHUONG “PHOENIX” NGUYEN, MD Advanced Endoscopy
Dr. Phuong “Phoenix” Nguyen is a board-certified gastroenterologist who is a nationally recognized expert in the field of Gastroenterology and one of Southern California’s most experienced physicians in using endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) to improve diagnosis and treatment. Her expertise includes minimally invasive approaches to the treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), bile duct diseases (ERCP), fecal incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, obesity management and other advanced procedures. Dr. Nguyen graduated from the David Geffen School of Medicine of UCLA in 1990. She completed her residency in internal medicine at Graduate Hospital in Philadelphia. Then completed a fellowship in gastroenterology at the University of California, Irvine. Dr. Nguyen is passionate about helping patients suffering from GERD, a chronic digestive disease that occurs when the liquid of the stomach travels back up into the esophagus, which can lead to tissue damage. While maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet can help reduce the risk of GERD, it is also treatable by medications and sometimes surgery such as the Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication or TIF procedure for reflux.
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Phuong “Phoenix” Nguyen, MD One Hoag Drive, Building 39, Newport Beach, CA 92663 949-764-5760
“GERD symptoms might be obvious or can be silent. GERD is a mechanical failure of lower esophagus that when weakened over time can cause acid reflux,” explains Dr. Nguyen. “Patients suffering from GERD may experience heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, and other troubling symptoms that negatively impact quality of life.” Known for her expertise, dedication and quality of care, Dr. Nguyen adds, “It is a great honor to be recognized as a Physician of Excellence in the GI space, as it is truly a passion of mine. It is a privilege to have the pleasure of treating so many patients who trust me and count on me for their healthcare.” January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 101
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
JOHN SAITO, MD, FAAP, FCCP Board Certified in Pediatrics, Pulmonary, and Sleep Medicine Dr. John Saito is especially focused on finding and fixing “Toxic Sleep,” a term that he coined to represent poor sleep quality due to disordered breathing plus hypoxia (lack of oxygen) during sleep. “Toxic Sleep” not only increases risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, cancer, and dementia, but also increases acute COVID-19 disease severity along with prolonging chronic post-COVID-19 symptoms. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Saito has been recognized for his advocacy and charity work in Orange County. “My practice is uniquely focused during the COVID-19 102 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
pandemic on preventing irreparable lung damage and disability associated with COVID-19 disease in children and adults from all walks of life.” Dr. Saito received his medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, and completed his residency at Orlando Regional Health System, Orlando, FL. His pediatric pulmonology fellowship was completed at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, N.C. His sleep training was completed at Cook Children’s Medical Center, Fort Worth, TX. He specializes in the care of children and adults with respiratory and sleep disorders.
As the director of the Saito Rejuvenation Center, he says the most rewarding aspect of his work is helping clients, “Breathe Well. Sleep Well. Live Well.”
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE John Saito, MD, FAAP, FCCP 7150 Euclid Street, Suite 316 Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714-486-3996 MySleepMD.com
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
MELANIE HO ERB, MD
Laser Cosmetic and Oculoplastic Surgery
Dr. Melanie Ho Erb is a leading expert in Orange County and Los Angeles in eyelid surgery, fillers, botulinum toxins, and lasers. She is a double boardcertified eyelid expert in Oculoplastic Surgery and Ophthalmology. She has performed thousands of successful surgeries, injections, and laser treatments over the course of her career. Dr. Erb exemplifies “A Surgeon’s Hands, A Woman’s Touch” with her approachability, honesty, gentle touch, and warm bedside manner. As a female surgeon, Dr. Erb understands the desires of female patients. As an Asian surgeon, Dr. Erb creates a natural-looking double eyelid. Many men visit Dr. Erb to continue to look masculine and youthful. Dr. Erb will reveal your inner vitality to the outside world. “I really strive to understand my patient’s goals,” she says. “I explain all of the possible options, and together we pick what works best for them.”
AREAS OF EXPERTISE • • • • • • • • • •
Laser Upper Lid Blepharoplasty (lid lift) Lower Lid Blepharoplasty (bag and dark circle removal) Asian Blepharoplasty (double eyelid surgery) Ptosis Repair (make eyes bigger) Brow lift Removal of Bumps including Xanthelasma Botox Facial Fillers Laser skin resurfacing Skin care with prescription strength bleaching creams and skin care products
AWARDS • • • •
Vitals Patient Choice Award annually since 2010 Vitals Compassionate Doctor Award annually since 2010 Named a Southern California Super Doctor annually since 2010 Named an Orange County Top Doctor/Physician of Excellence in Orange Coast magazine
Dr. Erb provides a natural, refreshed look by using a combination of surgery, injectables, and/or lasers, guided by her gentle touch, artistic eye, and perfectionism. Dr. Erb performs all of the lasers, injections, and surgeries herself. Most surgeries are done in her office procedure room with relaxing pills, lots of numbing cream, numbing eyedrops, and numbing injections – many patients fall asleep and later are astonished with how comfortable and relaxing the whole process was! “When patients are absolutely thrilled after their surgery or injectable, some cry tears of joy, others say that I have given them back their confidence back, and others say that I have truly changed their life. The patients’ joy is what I find most rewarding.”
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Melanie Ho Erb, MD 16300 Sand Canyon Avenue, 10th floor, Suite 1007 Irvine, CA 92618 949-727-0102 DrErb.com LaserCosmeticSurgery.com January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 103
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
GORETTI HO TAGHVA, MD LEA Plastic Surgery
One of the first things people notice about Goretti Ho Taghva, MD – her professional passion. What she promises at LEA Plastic Surgery: artistry, science, and a woman’s touch. While Dr. Taghva understands the aesthetic enhancements patients seek, she also celebrates their inherent beauty. “In this new age of social media, a lot of body image issues stem from unrealistic ideals of what women should look like,” the board-certified surgeon says. She points to online images that are often photoshopped, creating unattainable beauty standards. “Natural femininity isn’t that artificial look portrayed. You still want to look like yourself, just better.” Trained at Brown University and USC’s Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Integrated Program, Taghva performs non-surgical and surgical techniques, including minimally invasive and endoscopic approaches on diverse procedures ranging from mommy makeovers to rhinoplasty. Additionally, she’s a leading national expert in Asian blepharoplasty, having tailored treatment plans that respect ethnic standards. Signature treatments include Taghva’s “MiniFacelift,” which combines minimally invasive technologies to achieve results similar to a conventional face and neck lift, but with minimal scarring. Clients also turn to Taghva for breast augmentation using fat transfers to the breasts in lieu of implants. “Patients have become educated about the possible side effects of implants and are looking for something more natural,” she says. What Taghva considers success? “When patients tell me their friends say they’re looking great, but can’t tell what they’ve had done.”
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE 104 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
LEA Plastic Surgery 20360 SW Birch Street, Suite 180 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-945-2168 leaplasticsurgery.com
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
ANNE LUHAN, MD, FACS, ABVLM RPHS, CWSP Elite Vein Institute
Spider Veins, Varicose Veins, venous stasis ulcers… There are myriad vein conditions that cause pain, heaviness, restless legs, as well as selfconsciousness. The good news – there is help for these issues. Offering patients individualized treatment options is Dr. Anne Luhan of Elite Vein Institute. After graduating from Germany’s University of Ulm, Dr. Luhan continued her studies at Harvard University, the University of Arizona and University of California, Irvine. Discovering a passion for vein care, she dedicated herself solely to this specialty. “Treatment nowadays is revolutionary,” Luhan says. “It’s straightforward, very little to no pain, no anesthesia, fast recovery and an immediate return to daily activities.”
Luhan founded Elite Vein Institute, building a team of certified nurses, medical assistants and highly specified venous ultrasound technicians to provide a complete spectrum of vein care focusing on everything from the tiniest spider vein to the most complex varicose vein and open skin ulcers. Treatments are performed in the office, with minimal downtime, little discomfort and a fast return to daily activities. Most are covered by major insurance companies, as well as Medicare. Building even more confidence in patients is Dr. Luhan’s reputation. The double-board certified surgeon has been chosen as “Physician of Excellence in the OC” multiple years
in a row. Additionally, she’s on the board of several national venous care organizations. Given Dr. Luhan’s credentials and her expertise, patients can feel secure in putting their full trust in her hands.
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Elite Vein Institute 26691 Plaza, Suite 140 Mission Viejo, CA 92691 949-388-4800 EliteVeinInstitute.com January 2022 • Or a ng e Coast 105
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
MARCUS ROSENCRANTZ, MD, FACOG Reproductive Health and Wellness Center As a boutique infertility practice, Reproductive Health and Wellness Center focuses entirely on highest quality, personalized, and attentive patient care. “Our mission is to offer our patients the highest success rates by providing the most comprehensive care while maintaining more affordable prices in Orange County and beyond,” says Dr. Marcus Rosencrantz, an Orange County Physician of Excellence. “During my training, I fell in love with women’s health care and the science and technology that is involved in helping patients conceive.” When you need assistance achieving your dreams of starting a family, you want compassionate, individualized, and evidenced-based care that focuses on the whole patient. At RHWC, you will see your board-certified fertility doctor every visit and receive the most comprehensive fertility treatments combined with state-of-the-art science and technology. The center also offers a brand new IVF laboratory with 106 Ora nge C oast • January 2022
acupuncture, nutrition, therapy, and more. By combining IUI (Intrauterine Insemination), IVF (In Vitro Fertilization), Egg freezing, and more with individualized wellness programs, RHWC is achieving incredible success rates along with the highest patient satisfaction. “We are reinventing fertility care and we are having amazing success,” adds Dr. Rosencrantz. “There is truly no greater joy than helping people achieve their dreams of parenthood. We would love to help your family join ours.”
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Reproductive Health and Wellness Center 23141 Moulton Pkwy., Suite 204 Laguna Hills, CA 92653 949-516-0606 reproductivehealthwellness.com
SERVICES • Diagnostic testing and evaluations • Male and Female fertility tests • IVF • Intrauterine insemination • Ovulation induction • Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection • Egg Freezing • Donor Egg IVG • Male Fertility Care • Surrogacy • Preimplant Genetic Testing
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
DANIEL S. YANNI, MD, FAANS Disc Comfort, Inc.
Dr. Daniel S. Yanni is a board certified and spine fellowship trained neurosurgeon and is also one of the few surgeons in the country who specializes in Minimally Invasive and Complex Spine Surgery. Rated number one by his peers and patients alike, Dr. Yanni continues to research and develop new innovative approaches to surgical problems at his Disc Comfort, Inc. practice in Newport Beach. “We bring the wealth of knowledge from the University academic days and marry it to a private practice concierge style model that provides the highest caliber of personalized care,” he says. Dr. Yanni was a teenager in a high school anatomy class when he decided to become a neurosurgeon. He graduated summa cum laude from UCLA in Neuroscience. His passion for Neurological Surgery grew further while in medical school at the University of California, San Diego. “I was impressed by the anatomy and wiring in the brain and spine—how electrical signals are translated into motion, sensation, memories and speech,” says Yanni. Ever focused on innovation, Dr. Yanni performs spine surgery through key-hole sized incisions, a minimally invasive procedure that allows patients to be released within hours or days and return to work within weeks. In addition, Dr. Yanni also performs traditional open surgery for complex, deformity, and revision cases. He is also the project director for Augmented Reality in Spine Surgery (new technology in spine surgery) and serves on the Executive Board as Co-Director of Development for the Lumbar Spine Research Society. “Any patient suffering from neck pain, back pain or difficulty walking – this is what we are here for.”
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE
Disc Comfort, Inc. 1501 Superior Avenue, Suite 214 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949-515-0051 office 949-515-0052 fax yannimd.com January 2022 • Or a ng e Coast 107
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
JOHN PARK, MD Newport Beach Plastic Surgeon
“My priority as a plastic surgeon is the health and happiness of my patients. I am dedicated to providing a personalized approach, first by listening to each patient’s goals and concerns, followed by patient education and treatment planning that is tailored for each person,” Dr. John Park is the only plastic surgeon in the country who is double board certified in Plastic Surgery and Ophthalmology, with subspecialty training in Oculoplastic Surgery. With his unique background and expertise, he applies the best knowledge and techniques to address each patient’s aesthetic goals. Dr. Park believes the most important things to do as a physician is to listen. Each patient is unique and has different goals they would like to achieve. Dr. Park provides quality, compassionate care utilizing a welldesigned, proven, personalized surgical approach. Nothing is more rewarding for Dr. Park than sharing in the joys and positive experience with each patient. Dr. Park graduated from UC Berkeley, and earned his medical degree at the USC Keck School of Medicine. He then completed an ophthalmology residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, the top ranked program and one of the best hospitals in the country, and a two-year Oculoplastic Surgery fellowship at the Mayo Clinic, the top-ranking hospital in the nation, and at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Park then completed his plastic surgery residency at UC Irvine. With his unique specialty and subspecialty training and experience, Dr. Park serves as faculty at UC Irvine, training future plastic surgeons and oculoplastic surgeons. As a plastic surgeon committed to providing patients with natural-looking results, Dr. John Park provides quality, compassionate care utilizing a proven, safe, and personalized surgical approach to help his patients look and feel their very best.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE • Facelift
• Tummy Tuck
• Necklift
• Body Contouring
• Breast Augmentation
• Mommy Makeover
• Breast Lift
• Browlift
• Liposuction
• Eyelid Surgery
108 Ora nge C oast • January 2022
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE John Park, MD 180 Newport Center Drive, Suite 170 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-354-6556 johnparkmd.com
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
MICHAEL K. LEE, MD Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Dr. Michael K. Lee is a highly trained, double board-certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. His area of expertise encompasses cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the face, breast, and body. Dr. Lee specializes in breast augmentation, breast lift and reduction, breast implant removal and revisions, mommy makeover, tummy tuck, high-definition liposuction, Brazilian butt lift, facelift, rhinoplasty, eyelid rejuvenation, and more. In addition, he provides comprehensive care after cancer treatment, facial fractures, and trauma.
a plan together that can be tailored to meet their wants and needs.
Known for his compassionate and personable approach, Dr. Lee helps patients achieve exceptional outcomes by truly listening to all of their concerns. Dr. Lee strives to provide the best patient care to help reach the desired outcome. He believes in taking the time to listen to the patient and formulating
“My greatest joy is helping a patient realize that they can achieve a goal, whether it is being happy with themself after overcoming cancer or helping them gain self-confidence,” he says. “It is a true honor to be a part of a patient’s journey, and in the end, I want to be able to exceed their expectations.”
Dr. Lee grew up on the beautiful island of Oahu in Hawaii. He received his medical degree at the John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawaii. Dr. Lee then underwent surgical training at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He served as Administrative Chief Resident and was awarded by his peers as the Best Chief Resident. He continued his training with a fellowship in Plastic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine.
CREDENTIALS AND ACCOLADES • Diplomate of The American Board of Surgery • Diplomate of The American Board of Plastic Surgery • Elvin L. Shelton Award for Excellence • The Dr. Frank and Mary McDowell Award for Excellence in Surgery
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Michael K. Lee, MD, FACS 26732 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite 585 Mission Viejo, CA 92691 949-364-2277 michaelkleemd.com January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 109
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
RANJAN GUPTA, MD
Board-certified Orthopaedic Surgeon/Shoulder Specialist Dr. Ranjan Gupta is an award-winning, internationally recognized surgeon with expertise in shoulder surgery. Respected by both patients and peers for his clinical skills and academic excellence, Dr. Gupta’s practice sees a high volume of shoulder surgery, ranging from minimally-invasive arthroscopic procedures to shoulder replacements. With over 20 years’ experience in his field, Dr. Gupta remains dedicated to providing exceptional patient care. Patients seek his expertise for complex surgical revisions, travelling from across the country for his clinical judgment and positive outcomes. He ensures that patients understand not only the purpose of their surgical procedure but also the risks and how to maximize their healing and recovery.
AWARDS The only orthopaedic surgeon to be recognized with all of the following awards: • NIH Career Development Award from the National Institute for Neurologic Disorders & Stroke • Marshall Urist Young Investigator Award from the Association of Bone & Joint Surgeons • Kappa Delta Award from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Research Society
• Andrew J. Weiland Medal from the American Society of Surgery of the Hand • Charles S. Neer Award from the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon recognizing outstanding clinical investigations contributing to the understanding, care and prevention of injuries to the shoulder
DISTINCTIONS • Super Doctors (2012-2021)
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
• American-British-Canadian Traveling Fellowship from the American Orthopaedic Association
• Minimally-invasive arthroscopic shoulder surgery
110 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
“I am inspired by seeing how a patient’s quality of life improves after surgery, whether it be by decreased pain, or improvements in their range of motion and function. My goal is to help people return to the activities they love.”
• Best Doctors (2011-2021)
• Sterling Bunnell Traveling Fellowship from the American Society of Surgery of the Hand
• Joseph H. Boyes Research Award from the American Society of Surgery of the Hand
Passionate about education and research, Dr. Gupta has not only received teaching awards from his students and surgical trainees, but also consistently contributes to the field by performing and publishing both clinical and basic science research. He has authored more than 100 publications, while training and mentoring the next generation of young orthopedic surgeons.
• Shoulder replacement (anatomic and reverse)
• Rotator cuff injuries • Shoulder instability • Shoulder fractures
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE University of California, Irvine 101 The City Drive South, Pavilion III Orange, CA 92828 1640 Newport Boulevard, Suite 230 Costa Mesa, 92627 714-456-7012 RanjanGuptaMD.com
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE DEPARTMENT OF ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine, is founded on a commitment to the highest caliber of clinical care, cutting edge research, and innovative education. The Department has expanded in recent years to include all aspects of musculoskeletal medicine including minimally invasive joint replacement, hip preservation services, cartilage regeneration, and other services frequently not available elsewhere in Orange County. This year, we are proud to announce the addition of experts in orthopedic oncology/ joint arthroplasty (Dr. Amanda Goldin), complex spine surgery/trauma surgery (Dr. Sohaib Hashmi), and foot and ankle surgery (Dr. Naudereh Noori). Dr. Goldin is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in adult and pediatric orthopaedic oncology. Her clinical interests include the treatment of bone and soft tissue sarcomas and skeletal metastatic disease. Dr. Hashmi is a dual fellowship-trained orthopaedic spine and trauma surgeon. Dr. Hashmi specializes in the management of cervical, thoracic and lumbosacral spinal disorders. His clinical interests include complex spinal pathologies from trauma, UCI Health Orthopaedic & Spine Center 101 The City Dr. South, Pavilion 3 Orange, CA 92868 714-456-7012
tumor, deformity including scoliosis and flat back syndrome, degenerative disc disease and athletic injuries.
and friends. As a result, our surgeons have been selected for a variety of peernominated awards including:
Dr. Noori is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in surgical and nonsurgical treatment of foot and ankle conditions. Her clinical interests include reconstructive surgery, total ankle joint replacement, arthroscopic surgery, foot and ankle sports injuries, minimallyinvasive surgery, trauma, and arthritis.
2022 Orange County Medical Association Physician of Excellence Award: Nitin Bhatia, M.D., Ranjan Gupta, M.D., Andrew Hsu, M.D., Yu-po Lee, M.D, Greg Rafijah, M.D., John Scolaro, M.D., David So, M.D.
Representing the only University-based orthopedic providers in Orange County, our faculty have been selected by their peers for membership in exclusive international organizations including the Cervical Spine Research Society, the Scoliosis Research Society, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons. As members of these organizations and others, the department presented or published over 50 peer-reviewed research projects in the past year, by far the most of any group in Orange County, and we continue to receive awards and competitive funding for our ongoing work. Additionally, the department is particularly proud that our faculty are frequently asked to take care of other physicians’ families
UCI Health Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center 1640 Newport Blvd., Ste. 230 Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949-515-5210
UCI Health Tustin 1451 Irvine Blvd. Tustin, CA 92780 714-838-8878
2021 Southern California Super Doctors: Nitin Bhatia, M.D. (Hall of Fame, 11 consecutive years), Ranjan Gupta, M.D., Yu-Po Lee, M.D., Greg Rafijah, M.D., John Scolaro, M.D., Charles Rosen, M.D., David So, M.D., John Scolaro, M.D., 2021 Southern California Rising Stars Award: Andrew Hsu, M.D., Jesse Kaplan, M.D., James Learned, M.D., Philip Lim, M.D., Russell Stitzlein, M.D. If you have an orthopedic problem, or if you need a second opinion, please contact the UC Irvine Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. We look forward to getting you back to the highest quality of life possible.
AWARDED 2022
UCI Health Gottschalk Plaza 1 Medical Plaza Dr. Irvine, CA 92697 949-824-8600
PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE
UCI Health Laguna Hills 23961 Calle De La Magdalena, Ste. 200 Laguna Hills, CA 92653 949-238-4100
uciortho.com | ucihealth.org/medical-services/orthopaedics January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 111
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
ALEXIS D. FURZE, MD Nasal, Sinus and Facial Plastic Surgeon Specialist Alexis D. Furze, M.D. is a top doubleboard-certified surgeon in Nasal and Sinus Surgery as well as Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. An Orange County Medical Association Physician of Excellence, Dr. Furze also holds surgical fellowships with the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. With advanced training and extensive experience, Dr. Furze has performed more than 20,000 functional and aesthetic facial surgeries. He routinely performs highly effective, minimally invasive procedures, including balloon sinuplasty, a novel treatment that resolves breathing issues without the trauma and downtime of traditional sinus surgery. His individualized approach to rhinoplasty improves the appearance of the nose to his patients’ specifications. Dr. Furze serves as the Chairman of his multi-specialty department at Hoag Hospital and holds medical 112 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
directorships within the community. He is also the facial and reconstructive surgeon for the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Long Beach and regularly donates his medical expertise and surgical time to local healthcare charities.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
With offices conveniently located on the Hoag Newport Beach campus, Dr. Furze is a top choice for nasal, sinus and facial plastic surgery in Orange County and surrounding areas.
• Nasal Breathing, Sinus and Septum Surgery
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Alexis D. Furze, MD 520 Superior Avenue, Suite 270 Newport Beach, CA 9266 800-498-FACE (3223) drfurze.com
• Rhinoplasty and Revisions • Injectables and Fillers
• Balloon Sinuplasty • Anti-Aging Facial Procedures, including Eyelid Lifts • Facial Trauma Reconstructive Surgery • Facial Scar Revision • On-site Imaging Services
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
ANNE MARIE MCNEILL, MD, PHD Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery As President and Medical Director of Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Dr. Anne Marie McNeill is a respected board-certified dermatologist who specializes in dermatologic surgery, vulvar dermatology and cosmetic dermatology. Named a “Top Doc” in Orange Coast Magazine, Dr. McNeill has also been featured as a Physician of Excellence and recognized in several other publications for her expertise. “I founded Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery 11 years ago with the goal of providing the best medical and cosmetic care that could be obtained anywhere,” she explains. “We now have a staff of 35, including three board-certified dermatologists and a board-certified plastic surgeon, each with unique expertise in everything from skin care, skin cancers, diet and skin, muscle toning and body shaping, eyelid rejuvenation and facial aging to medical dermatology.”
Ever on the cutting edge, the practice offers over 40 devices and technologies for rejuvenation, skin care and body shaping, including the fractionated CO2 and TruSculpt Flex. “Fractionated CO2 uses an older technology, the CO2 laser, to stimulate collagen in a safe and controlled manner,” says Dr. McNeill. “It gives the most dramatic improvement in skin quality and appearance, and also improves skin health. TruSculpt Flex is a new muscle stimulation device which helps to build muscle almost anywhere on the body. I love these devices that help cosmetically but also improve function and health.” Known for her commitment to exceptional patient care, Dr. McNeill focuses on skin health and beauty, treating the whole patient. “In Southern California, we have beautiful sunny weather year-round, but this often creates sun damage, skin cancers, sunspots and skin laxity,” she adds. “In our practice, we focus on improving the skin’s health and appearance with combinations of lasers, surgery, education and skin care.”
EDUCATION AND TRAINING • M.D. and Ph.D., Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California, Irvine • Internship in Internal Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles • Residency in Dermatology, University of California, Irvine
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery 1441 Avocado Avenue, Suite 702 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-706-7886 | @nbdps newportbeachdps.com January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 113
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
ELIZABETH J. PUSEY, MD Women’s Medical Imaging
As a board-certified radiologist with decades of experience, Dr. Elizabeth Pusey is known as a compassionate physician who believes healthcare is a partnership with her patients. Dr. Pusey and her teamwork with you to assess personal risk for breast cancer and choose the best options for detection. With the newest low dose 3D mammography and complete bilateral breast ultrasound offered for patients with dense breasts during the same visit, Dr. Pusey has been highly successful in finding very small early-stage breast cancers. Fibrocystic patients also find a true partner in monitoring and caring for their sometimes painful breast conditions. The intimate size of Dr. Pusey’s practice allows her and her team to build a unique and lasting relationship with every patient.
CREDENTIALS AND EXPERTISE • • • • • • •
Board Certified Radiologist B.S.,M.I.T.; M.S., UC Berkeley; M.D.,U.C. San Francisco Interventional Radiology Fellowship, UCLA Internship, Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco Fibrocystic Breast Specialist CEO, Rural Wellness Healthcare CEO, Avem Foundation
SERVICES • • • • •
Digital 3D Mammography Tomosynthesis (low dose) Bone Density Ultrasound: Breast
114 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
• • • •
Thyroid Abdominal Obstetrics Pelvic
With her B.S. degree from MIT., M.S. degree from Berkeley, and medical degree from UC San Francisco, Dr. Pusey’s lifelong dedication is driven by the passion she has for improving and maintaining the long-term health and wellness of her patients. Dr. Pusey also has a particular passion for accessible healthcare. Her company Rural Wellness Healthcare has transformed three critical access hospitals in Stroud, Anadarko, and Fairfax, Oklahoma into top-quality healthcare facilities and vital resources for the rural communities they serve. She also heads the Avem Foundation, a nonprofit supporting local programs that enhance the quality of life in rural communities.
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Women’s Medical Imaging 361 Hospital Road, Suite 528 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949-645-2321 Epuseymdinc@gmail.com DrPusey.com
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
NEWPORT HARBOR ANESTHESIA CONSULTANTS MEDICAL GROUP Newport Harbor Anesthesia Consultants Medical Group (NHAC) was founded over 30 years ago and has grown with the community to become a diverse group of 65 physicians. Well-known as a premier group of anesthesiologists in Orange County, the group is a physician-only practice, directly providing the highest quality of anesthesia care. NHAC provides anesthesia services at Hoag Hospital affiliated surgical locations and multiple private centers throughout Orange County. The Group also has longstanding relationships with many top plastic surgeons in Orange County, providing consistent, high-quality care at their private centers. NHAC physicians have trained at renowned institutions including Harvard, Stanford, UCI, UCLA, UCSF, USC, Virginia Mason, and Yale. Many members have fellowship training in specialized fields of anesthesiology
including Cardiothoracic, Obstetric, Critical Care, Neuro-Anesthesia, Regional and Pain Management. NHAC is proud to be on the forefront of anesthesiology and prides itself on delivering modern, state-of-the-art anesthesia care to the community. The “Enhanced Recovery After Surgery” and non-opioid pain management initiatives it continues to develop constantly contribute to programs like Hoag’s Robotic Surgery Center of Excellence. NHAC is among only five other non-academic departments in the world in achieving the designation as an Obstetric Anesthesia Center of Excellence in 2020. It was also awarded the Four-Star Excellence Award by Professional Research Consultants for being a top anesthesia group in the nation and received the maximum stars from Medicare on all reported quality measures.
NHAC provides care for everyone from healthy outpatients to critically ill patients, in the operating room, on the labor floor, in the ICU, endoscopy center, cardiac cath lab, interventional radiology suite, and ambulatory surgery center. The team is honored to care for patients during joyful experiences such as the birth of a child, as well as supporting patients facing serious concerns.
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Newport Harbor Anesthesia Consultants Medical Group 351 Hospital Road, Suite 420 Newport Beach, CA 92663 949-764-5438 newportharboranesthesia.com January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 115
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
CHOC CHILDREN’S SPECIALISTS OTOLARYNGOLOGY Drs. Kevin Huoh, Gurpreet Ahuja, Qiu Zhong, Jay Bhatt, Nguyen Pham Expertise, integrity, and professionalism. These are the attributes that form the foundation of the Otolaryngology Division of CHOC Children’s Specialists. The CHOC Pediatric Otolaryngology Division is the only group in Orange County that is exclusively dedicated to pediatric ear, nose and throat disorders. The division’s highly acclaimed surgeons are all board-certified and have received their pediatric fellowship training at various top institutions in the country. The division’s surgeons are completely dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for ENT problems in children of all ages–from newborns to teens-while fostering a trusting and professional relationship with our patients and their families. The three senior members, Dr. Ahuja, Dr. Pham and Dr. Huoh have been recognized by the Orange County Medical Association as “Physicians of Excellence”.
Children’s Hospital’s multidisciplinary clinics, consistent with CHOC Children’s commitment to providing the finest care to all of OC’s children. The division is fully committed to providing state-ofthe-art treatment options for routine as well as complex pediatric ear nose and throat/head and neck disorders. The division’s areas of expertise range from common management of tonsil and adenoid disorders and recurrent ear infections, to management of complex airway disorders, pediatric sinus disease, cleft lip and palate defects, gastroesophageal reflux related ENT issues, voice and speech problems, surgical management of head and neck masses and birth defects, and surgical management of hearing loss.
The division’s surgeons actively participate in a variety of CHOC
SPECIALTIES
• Intracapsular tonsillectomy/ adenoidectomy • Cochlear implants and BAHAs • Congenital and Acquired Masses of the Head and Neck • Surgical Management of Voice and Swallowing disorders • Airway reconstruction • Surgery for Sleep Apnea • Cleft Lip and Palate • Sinus Disease • Pediatric thyroid and parathyroid surgery
AWARDED 2022
• Vascular and Lymphatic Malformations
PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE
Our surgeons are available at five convenient locations throughout Orange County as listed below: 1010 W. La Veta Avenue, Suite 710 Orange, CA 92868
446 Old Newport Boulevard Newport Beach, CA 92663
250 E. Yale Loop, Suite 200 Irvine, CA 92604
770 Pacific Coast Highway Seal Beach CA 90740
Phone 714-633-4020 | Fax 714-953-5462 | specialists.chocchildrens.org/otolaryngology 116 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
26691 Plaza, Suite 130 Mission Viejo CA 92691
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
EDINGER PEDIATRICS A CHOC Primary Care Practice
We know that you are the ultimate protector of your children’s health. At Edinger Pediatrics, our caring pediatricians partner with you to provide personalized care in a warm and friendly environment to help keep your children healthy every step of the way. Edinger Pediatrics’ mission is to provide the highest level of pediatric care possible, by putting our patients first and being involved in pediatric education, teaching and research. Being up to date on the latest medical education and technology allows us to offer painless tests, utilize specialized technology for monitoring difficult to treat illnesses (such as asthma), and perform many office procedures and tests. We have also spent years involved in FDA-sponsored vaccine research. We offer pediatric care for all children from birth through teens including well checks, immunizations, sick visits, sports physicals, and more. Additionally, our medical office staff is well trained, child-friendly, and professional. Our providers see newborns at Orange Coast Memorial and Hoag Presbyterian Hospitals. We look forward to seeing your family to address all your pediatric needs. Harry Pellman, MD, FAAP Awarded OCMA 2022 Physician of Excellence Dr. Pellman received his medical degree with honors from the University of Illinois. His internship was at LA County-USC Medical Center, and he completed his pediatric residency training at the University of Illinois Research Hospital in Chicago. After service in the U.S. Army, he joined Edinger Medical Group Pediatrics Department (now Edinger Pediatrics). He has been very active in the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) both nationally, as a member of the infectious disease, breastfeeding and armed service (West) sections, and locally, in its Orange County Chapter as President, education chair, breastfeeding coordinator and PROS (Pediatric Research in the Office Setting) chair. He is a clinical professor of pediatrics at University of California, Irvine, and has been involved for many years with both FDA-sponsored and independent vaccine research in children. He and his wife have five daughters and seven grandchildren.
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
Mai-Khanh Tran, MD, FAAP Dr. Tran graduated cum laude from Harvard University. Following a brief stint as a financial analyst on Wall Street, she received her medical degree from the Dartmouth University/Brown University Medical Program. She completed her pediatric residency and training at UCLA. She has been, and continues to be, very involved in volunteer activities in the Vietnamese community as well as international medical missions She has also been involved in both FDA-sponsored and independent vaccine research. Shelley Chacon, MD, FAAP Dr. Chacon received her Doctorate of Medicine from UC Davis. She completed her pediatric internship and residency at UC Irvine, which included training at CHOC Children’s Hospital, Miller Children’s Hospital in Long Beach and UC Irvine Medical Center, and then served at CHOC as a staff attending physician and hospitalist. She has been with Edinger Medical Group Pediatric Department (now Edinger Pediatrics) for more than two decades. She has done both FDA-sponsored and independent vaccine research in children, participated in several international medical mission projects and remains active in her church and community. Teresa H. Lee, MD, FAAP After graduating from UC Berkeley, Dr. Lee went on to obtain her Doctorate of Medicine degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. She completed her pediatric residency at the University of California, San Diego and has been practicing full-time for over 20 years. She served at a Spanish speaking community clinic, established a private pediatric office, and worked for a large multispecialty medical group. Dr. Lee’s main goal has always been to work closely with families to nurture happy and healthy children. She also speaks conversational Cantonese.
Edinger Pediatrics 9900 Talbert Avenue, Suite 201 Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714-509-4600 choc.org/locations/ edinger-pediatrics
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 117
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
VMR INSTITUTE FOR VITREOUS MACULA RETINA VMR is a leading facility for disorders of vitreous, macula, and retina. Widely-recognized for delivering expert yet compassionate care in a private setting, VMR offers exceptional individualized attention. We are also noted for a team of Ivy League-educated physicians who are global leaders in the field. “We have spent decades specializing in diseases of vitreous, macula, and retina,” says Dr. Sebag, “and offer the most advanced eye care available anywhere”. Nationally and internationally-recognized for cutting-edge diagnostics and therapeutics, VMR’s doctors provide the latest approaches to complex problems of the eye. While the majority of eye care is delivered at the Institute, VMR’s physicians operate at six local hospitals and outpatient surgery centers. Dr. Sebag explains, “VMR surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, most expertly at the Newport Bay Surgery Center (NBSC, a Hoag affiliate), which is dedicated solely to the eye, with staff who are proficient in eye surgery.” “It is an honor to walk into a room as a doctor and walk into a life, thanks to the trust our patients extend us. We take that privilege very seriously and find it extremely gratifying to improve vision on a daily basis, very often curing blindness.”
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE VMR Institute for Vitreous Macula Retina 7677 Center Avenue, Suite 400, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 714-901-7777 | VMRinstitute.com 118 Ora nge C oast • January 2022
J. SEBAG, MD, FACS, FRCOphth, FARVO • Graduate, Columbia and Harvard • Senior Research Scientist Doheny Eye Institute, UCLA • Professor Clinical Ophthalmology Stein Eye Institute, Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA • OCMA Physician of Excellence 2014 & 2022 LAWRENCE P. CHONG, MD • Graduate, USC and Harvard • Director of Retina Doheny Eye Institute, USC (1990–2010) • Professor Clinical Ophthalmology Keck Medicine, USC • Staff Surgeon Hoag Hospital, Los Alamitos, Newport Bay Surgery Center (NBSC) WEI “WAYNE” GUI, MD • Graduate, Cornell and Yale • Recipient Stein Eye Institute Excellence in Research Award, UCLA • Clinical Instructor of Ophthalmology Stein Eye, UCLA • Staff Surgeon Hoag, NBSC, Memorial Surgery Center, Saddleback Surgery Center
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
LAWRENCE B. WERLIN, MD, FACOG Coastal Fertility Medical Center
We are celebrating 39 years of helping couples create their families in Orange County. Dr. Lawrence B. Werlin is one of the nation’s most noted Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (REI) specialists. He pioneered the use of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) in Southern California. He believes that educating patients regarding their fertility and their options is paramount. Due to his passion for teaching, we have compiled a number of seminars available on our website, coastalfertility.com, to introduce the public to the world of fertility treatment. In addition, he informs the younger population about fertility preservation and freezing their eggs for the future. This gives them a better understanding and hope of what this field of medicine can achieve. Coastal has been one of Orange County’s leading providers of reproductive care to infertility patients since 1982. “Our lives are connected to
our patients, and it becomes a lifetime relationship. Our patients keep us in their lives and update us on all their milestones ” Dr. Werlin states. The center’s primary goal is personalized patient care. Coastal and its dedicated staff are widely recognized for their compassion, as well as their special attention to the individual needs of their patients.
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Coastal Fertility Medical Center 15500 Sand Canyon Avenue, Suite 100 Irvine, CA 92618 949-726-0600 CoastalFertility.com
HONORS AND AWARDS • Orange Coast Magazine’s Physicians of Excellence 2005-2021 • Los Angeles Magazine’s Super Doctors 2008-2021 • America’s Best Doctors 1996-2020 • America’s Most Compassionate Doctor 2010-2014 • Patient’s Choice Award 2008- 2014 • Who’s Who in America 1998-2014 • Who’s Who in Medicine and Healthcare 2002-2010
January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 119
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
MARK KAN, MD, FACOG LAUREN SUNDHEIMER, MD, MS, FACOG Newport Fertility Center- CCRM Orange County
When your dreams of starting a family require the support of caring and experienced fertility experts, Newport Fertility Center offers the dedicated and individualized care you need. Dr. Mark Kan and Dr. Lauren Sundheimer offer the kind of one-on-one attention only available at an intimate boutique practice. “Family is so important and being able to help grow families is something I find so rewarding,” says Dr. Sundheimer. “I love the science and technology in the field and that it is always evolving and changing to help us get the best outcomes.” Newport Fertility Center- CCRM Orange County started in Orange County in 2005, with the state-ofthe-art IVF laboratory built in 2014 in partnership with the Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine network 120 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
(CCRM). This partnership provides patients on the West Coast of the U.S. with continued access to NFC’s outstanding patient care and outcomes, as well as leading fertility technology. “I am honored to be named a 2022 Physician of Excellence by the Orange County Medical Association,” says Dr. Mark Kan, the director and founder of the Newport Fertility Center. Dr. Kan is a Board-Certified specialist in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility with over 25 years of experience and has worked with some of the pioneers in IVF. Dr. Sundheimer is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and is also Board Certified in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Passionate about helping her patients achieve their goals of starting a family, Dr. Sundheimer provides a comprehensive,
holistic approach to fertility, fertility preservation, and reproductive endocrinology. “There is nothing better than helping build families and make people’s dreams come true!”
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Newport Fertility Center- CCRM Orange County 3501 Jamboree Road, Suite 1100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-222-1290 newportfertility.com ccrmivf.com
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
MATTHEW J NYKIEL, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon As an internationally recognized aesthetic body contouring expert, Dr. Matthew J. Nykiel is both an esteemed educator who trains other physicians in body contouring techniques and a highly regarded speaker. A decorated board-certified plastic surgeon and international VASER Liposuction Trainer, Dr. Nykiel’s attentive, perceptive, and talented skills make him a sought-after plastic surgeon to many actors and influencers, and anyone seeking exceptional results. Dr. Nykiel exclusively uses the most advanced technologies and techniques to perform his innovative surgeries, all while holding true to his mission: empowering self-expression, goal-setting, improving happiness, and educating. Never one to pursue a cookie cutter approach, Dr. Nykiel helps patients achieve their goals using a personalized treatment plan. He is a leading expert in butt augmentations, Brazilian Butt Lifts, liposuction, high definition body sculpting, tummy tucks, body contouring, and breast augmentation. His stellar work has been featured in high profile publications such as People, OK!, BET, New Beauty, and more. He is also a part of an educational iHeart Radio podcast titled “Under the Knife with Dr. Matthew Nykiel,” and has appeared on Sirius XM The Doctors channel, as well as Fuse TV. Dr. Nykiel and his associates make it their priority to provide a welcoming, safe environment to ensure the confidence and wellbeing of patients before, during, and after their cosmetic procedure. Your safety, mental, and physical health are his practice’s number one priority. In addition to body contouring and enhancement, Dr. Nykiel’s menu of services also includes a variety of MedSpa and non-surgical procedures such as fillers, Botox, Dysport, high-definition body sculpting, and microneedling. Dr. Nykiel has been helping people achieve their aesthetic beauty goals for more than nine years – he can help you, too.
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE
Matthew J Nykiel, MD 1401 Avocado Avenue, Suite 501 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-429-0890
1113 Alta Avenue, Suite 103 Upland, CA 92786 909-301-0102 buttsbydesign.com January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 121
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
MICHELLE ASZTERBAUM, MD The Dermatology Center of Newport
Orange County is known for its glorious sunshine, but, unfortunately, this sunshine often damages the health and beauty of your skin. As a board-certified dermatologist and Orange County Physician of Excellence for almost two decades, Dr. Michelle Aszterbaum takes pride in bringing the latest breakthroughs in skin cancer prevention and cosmetic technologies to her patients. Dr. Aszterbaum and the team at the Dermatology Center of Newport offer patients an unhurried and personalized visit with special attention to detail in order to provide the highest quality care in medical and cosmetic dermatology. “I’m very interested in the science of the skin. For the last 20 years, I have continued my original research career at UCSF on people with a high risk for developing skin cancers, testing medications and supplements that help reduce their risk.” says Dr. Aszterbaum, whose work has been published in several journals, including the New England Journal of Medicine. Committed to her own continuing education, Dr. Aszterbaum loves communicating her latest learnings to her patients. “We provide dermatology care with a customized and caring approach,” she explains. “I was raised in Orange County– I treat all of my patients like family.” In addition, Dr. Aszterbaum offers state-of-the-art cosmetic techniques for facial skin rejuvenation. Mindful of her patients’ busy lifestyles, she emphasizes gentle treatments that result in only minimal downtime while offering agedefying and natural-looking results.
SERVICES • MOHs and dermatologic surgery • Injectables • Laser Treatments
“Now that I am over 50, I have a very personal understanding of the challenges of aging to our skin. Nevertheless, I’m happy to report that we have many tools to reverse sun damage and the effects of gravity. These tools can make a dramatic difference in cosmesis and really contribute to a person’s self-confidence. I’m especially looking forward to introducing the new and exciting innovations in dermatology coming out in 2022.”
• Vein Treatments
MEMBERSHIPS AND APPOINTMENTS • Associate Clinical Professor, Dermatology, University of California, Irvine • Vice President, Orange County Dermatologic Society • Past Chair of Hoag Hospital Department of Dermatology
122 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE The Dermatology Center of Newport 360 San Miguel Drive, Suite 406 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-525-0700 dermatologyofnewport.com
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
COASTLINE ORTHOPAEDIC ASSOCIATES Robotic Spine Surgery and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery For over three decades, Coastline Orthopaedic Associates has been dedicated to restoring active lifestyles for patients throughout Southern California. The team of six board-certified orthopaedic experts cover all specialties in general orthopaedics, sports medicine, fractures, pediatric orthopaedics, joint replacement surgery, hand surgery, spinal disorders, and foot and ankle problems. Coastline Orthopedics prides itself in providing exceptional patient care by spending time listening and treating the entire individual to provide a superior experience at every level.
PRACTICE PHYSICIANS • ZAFAR S. KHAN, MD, Spine Surgery • PAYAM FARJOODI, MD, Spine Surgery • KATHRYN C. PERKINS TIFT, MD, Pediatric Orthopaedics • LAUCHLAN CHAMBERS, MD, MPH, General Orthopaedics, Reconstruction & Sports Medicine
With a large group of diverse sub-specialists, the practice is able to provide care to almost all orthopaedic conditions, from childhood through geriatrics. All of the surgeons at Coastline are exceptionally trained at the finest institutions in the world, offering the highest caliber of care.
• TIMOTHY T. CHENG, MD General Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine
“We strive to help our patients achieve their best possible health and restore their quality of life. Our passion is to relieve our patients’ pain and disability – there is nothing more rewarding than returning our patients to their full wellness potential with confidence,” says Dr. Payam Farjoodi.
• Arthritis
Using advanced technology and minimally invasive techniques, Coastline’s surgeons provide outpatient back, neck, hip, and knee surgery that allows patients to go home the same day. In addition, many of Coastline’s surgeons use robotic technology to perform more precise and safe procedures that are at the forefront of orthopedics.
• Joint Replacement Surgery
“There is tremendous satisfaction in helping patients become active again and eliminating their discomfort and pain,” notes Dr. Kathryn Perkins Tift. “When they come back doing so much better, they typically are so grateful for what we have done for them. That’s why we love what we do.”
TREATMENT AREAS • Sports Medicine • Fractures and Trauma • Spine Treatment • Arthroscopic Surgery
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE
Coastline Orthopaedic Associates 8700 Warner Avenue, Suite 140 Fountain Valley, CA 92708 714-850-7300 coastlineortho.com January 2022 • Or a ng e Coast 123
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
KEN L. WILLIAMS, DO, FISHRS, ABHRS Diplomate of the American Board of Hair Surgery, Board Certified Primary Care Medicine
Dr. Ken Williams, named by the Orange County Medical Association as a 2022 Physician of Excellence, is dedicated to the art and science of hair restoration. Dr. Williams began his medical career and surgical practice in 1986 as a primary care physician, and he later transitioned his practice to cosmetic medicine and surgery exclusively focused on the medical and surgical treatment of men and women suffering from hair loss disorders. “My specialty allows me to provide high-quality and exceptional care that ultimately improves the psychological well-being of my patients,” says Dr. Williams. With over three decades of experience in private practice, Dr. Williams is well-respected by patients and peers, and enjoys hospital privileges at St. Joseph Hospital, Hoag Hospital, and Children’s Hospital of Orange County. As one of a few hair surgeons in Orange County who has written surgical textbooks and published papers in medical literature, Dr. Williams also lectures internationally on hair surgery, and certifies hair surgeons as an oral examiner and written examination committee member on the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery. With a highdegree of expertise, Dr. Williams performs all of the critical-to-quality steps of hair transplant surgery unlike other plastic surgeons and dermatologist who delegate the procedure to technicians. “I personally suffered from advance stages of hair loss and realized how hair surgery and medical treatment stabilization improves hair thinning and the quality of life for my patients.”
CREDENTIALS AND CERTIFICATIONS • Diplomat and Board Member of American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (ABHRS), the only surgical organization that certifies hair surgeons. • Fellow, International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) • Author, International Lecturer, and Researcher of Hair Loss Disorders
124 Ora nge C oast • January 2022
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Orange County Hair Restoration 15785 Laguna Canyon Road, Suite 390 Irvine, CA 92618 949-333-2999 OrangeCountyHairRestoration.org
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
PRACTICE FOCUS • Brain Aneurysms and AVMs • Brain Tumors and Skull base surgery • Brain and Spine Trauma • Hydrocephalus and Shunt procedures • Trigeminal Neuralgia and facial pain • Minimally invasive and robotic spine surgery
EDUCATION • Undergraduate University of California, Berkeley • Medical School USC Keck School of Medicine • Neurosurgery Residency Baylor College of Medicine / MD Anderson Cancer Center • Cerebrovascular Fellowship Drexel Neurosciences Institute
VIKAS RAO, MD, FAANS Orange County Neurosurgical Associates Dr. Vikas Rao is a board-certified fellowship trained Neurosurgeon specializing in brain surgery, cerebrovascular and endovascular neurosurgery, brain tumor treatments, and minimally invasive spine surgery. One of only a few “dual-trained” vascular neurosurgeons in Southern California, Dr. Rao offers both surgical treatments and minimally invasive endovascular treatments for the management of brain vascular diseases. He is a specialist in the treatment of brain aneurysms, stroke, brain bleeds, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and carotid stenosis. With his training he treats complex cerebrovascular disorders like brain aneurysms either with surgery or minimally invasive catheter-based treatments via a tiny nick in the wrist or groin. Since he can offer both styles of treatment, patients can weigh the pros and cons of both options and make the ultimate decision on their care.
Dr. Rao is also a highly skilled brain tumor surgeon, having trained at the world-famous MD Anderson Cancer Center. Ever on the leading edge, Dr. Rao offers the latest technology and treatments for brain tumors including awake craniotomies, minimally invasive “key-hole” approaches for brain surgery, computer guided surgical tools, fluorescent guided tumor surgery and stereotactic radiosurgery. In addition, Dr. Rao believes in performing “hair-sparing” and cosmetically sensitive brain surgery. “I was born in Orange County and I returned here to raise my family and build a career of providing high-quality specialized care to patients in my community,” says Dr. Rao. “As a small team, my practice is able to provide patients personalized attention. I spend a lot of time with my patients and try to explain everything in as clear a manner as possible so that they are informed about their options,” he says.
CURRENT POSITIONS • Providence Mission Hospital, Mission Viejo o Co-director Cerebrovascular Neurosurgery o Director of Neurooncology o Director of Neurotrauma • Memorial Care Saddleback Medical Center, Laguna Hills o Medical Director, Stroke and Neurointerventional Service • On staff at Hoag Hospital, Newport Beach
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Orange County Neurosurgical Associates 26732 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite 541 Mission Viejo, CA 92691 949-388-7190 drvikasrao.com January 2022 • Or a ng e Coast 125
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
THOMAS RAMBACHER, DPM, FACFAS, FAPWCA
Podiatry Hotline Foot and Ankle
No cookie cutter procedures here. Instead, Podiatry Hotline Foot and Ankle focuses on diagnostic podiatry. In terms of bunions, this means personalized, patient-specific three dimensional bunion corrections. “There’s a revolution happening in bunion surgery,” Thomas Rambacher, DPM, FACFAS, FAPWCA says. “This cutting edge approach keeps all three planes of correction in mind.” Taken into consideration – the patient’s activity profile, expectations and post-surgery shoe gear requirements.” The goal when approaching different levels of bunions and functional requirements, Dr. Rambacher says, “Getting people back to their lifestyle as soon as possible.”
DISTINCTIONS • Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons • Fellow of the American Professional Wound Care Assoc.
• Double Board Certified in Primary Care in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery • Cutting edge technology in a compassionate environment • Podiatry Hotline gives you direct access to the doctor
• Diagnostic Podiatry identifies underlying conditions for accurate diagnosis • Friendly Staff
• Contracted with most insurance AREAS OF EXPERTISE • Regenerative Medicine
• Surgical Alternatives
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Corns and Calluses
• Bunions
• Sports Medicine
• Laser and Toenail Fungus • Peripheral Neuropathy
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Virtually Painless Surgery
126 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
• Arthritis
This focus on the foot as a whole is used to restore its highest level of function and activity possible for the client’s foot. “All of the bunion corrections we have offer an early return to activity and walking,” Rambacher says. Depending on the type of correction made, this can be immediately, or within the first week of surgery. As a certified provider for by all the minimally invasive bunion procedure companies, Rambacher says “Now is the best time ever to have bunion surgery because of new three dimensional products available.” There’s no one-size-fits-all approach used, instead, surgeries are tailored towards what’s best for each specific client. “Whether you’re an 80-yearold who plays with your grandkids, a 60-year-old pickle ball player, 30-year-old competitive runner or a 20-year-old who loves wearing high heels,” Dr. Rambacher says, “I’ve mastered these procedures so I can give you exactly what you want and need out of life.”
• Cracks and Fissures • Flat Feet
• Hammer Toes
• Wound Care Specialist
Podiatry Hotline Foot and Ankle 26302 La Paz Road, Suite 101 Mission Viejo, CA 92691 Office: 949-916-0077 Text: 949-203-1803 podiatryhotline.com
S P O N S O R E D CONT E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
YING CHI, MD
Orange County Hand Surgery Specialists A common joint to suffer from arthritis: Basal joint of the thumb. “It’s the most mobile joint in the body, so overuse is a common,” Ying Chi, MD, the double board-certified founder of Orange County Hand Surgery Specialists, says. With overuse comes pain, swelling, loss of grip and weakness with pinching. Patients turn to DR. Chi for ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition (LRTI), aka Thumb Basal Joint Arthroplasty. “LRTI maintains range of motion and pain goes away,” Dr. Chi says. After a six-week recovery period, the results of this outpatient surgery can last a lifetime. Thumbs aren’t the only fingers getting attention in DR. Chi’s office. She specializes in a 15-minute surgery done under local numbing for trigger finger tendonitis. “Patients can regain range of motion, with no more locking, clicking and pain.” DR. Chi tackles Dupuytren’s Contracture, too, a condition that causes restricted motion in the fingers and, in severe cases, a clenched fist. “I perform a highly technical microsurgery to remove the Dupuytren’s cord and release contractors that wrap around the nerves and arteries of the hands and fingers.” Left unaddressed, common hand issues, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, can result in irreversible nerve damage. DR. Chi, who’s a clinical assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery at the University of California-Irvine Medical Center, also educates the public about common hand disorders through her YouTube channel, In Good Hands with Dr. Chi. “An evaluation by a hand surgeon is always best,” she says. “Many times, we can perform non-surgical or surgical procedures before a problem becomes too severe and patients can achieve full recovery.” Two passion projects of Dr. Chi’s – the recently launched Chí Beauté, an antiaging hand rejuvenation systems available at chibeaute. com, and inspiring future orthopaedic surgeons, especially young women looking to enter the field.
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE
Orange County Hand Surgery Specialists 11190 Warner Avenue, Suite 307 Fountain Valley, CA 92708
15000 Kensington Park Drive, Suite 350 Tustin, CA 92782 714-434-3518 ochandsurgery.com January 2022 • Or a nge Coast 127
SPON SORED C ON TEN T
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
ALEXANDER TAGVA, MD
Orange County Neurosurgical Associates
Dr. Alexander Taghva is a fellowship-trained, board-certified neurosurgeon specializing in the treatment of neck pain, low back pain, spine and brain disorders. While the issues he treats are complex, in simple terms, Dr. Taghva is in the practice of improving people’s quality of life. “My practice is unique in that I offer several treatment modalities to address a particular problem. I am able to offer patients a wide variety of cutting-edge interventions including spinal cord stimulation, deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor, and minimally-invasive alternatives to spinal fusion.” Conditions treated by Dr. Taghva include sciatica, spinal stenosis, brain tumors, Parkinson’s disease, as well as other conditions requiring brain or spine surgery. Recognizing that surgery is not always the best option, he offers unique nonsurgical options as well. “Many patients with prior spine surgery or those who are not candidates for spine surgery are often left without options to treat their persistent chronic low back or neck pain. Recent advancements in the technology of spinal cord stimulation allow us to treat these patients more successfully than ever before with low-risk, outpatient procedures. In addition, being at the forefront of surgical technologies means we can optimize both patient outcomes and comfort. For example, we now can offer fully asleep, image guided DBS for Parkinson’s disease and have seen excellent outcomes with this approach.”
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Orange County Neurosurgical Associates 26732 Crown Valley Pkwy., Suite 541 Mission Viejo, CA 92691 949-388-7190 alextaghvamd.com 128 Ora nge C o ast • January 2022
Dr. Taghva received his medical degree from the prestigious Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Prior to that, Dr. Taghva graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Southern California with a degree in biochemistry. He completed his residency in neurological surgery at the University of Southern California and completed additional fellowship training in Neuromodulation at the Ohio State University. Dr. Taghva is a diplomate of the American Board of Neurological Surgery, a fellow of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, and a member of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons.
SPO N S O R E D C O N T E NT
TOP MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL S
DALIA IBRAHIM, MD, MPH DINA SEIF, MD, MBA Infuse Ketamine Treatment Center
Infuse Ketamine Treatment Center offers a breakthrough treatment for mental health and chronic pain patients who have not found relief with traditional treatment. The center is operated by Drs. Dalia Ibrahim and Dina Seif, two board-certified physicians who have been helping patients find hope and healing with ketamine since 2019. In recent years, researchers and physicians have seen the astounding effects ketamine has for those with mental health issues and mood disorders, including depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. In fact, ketamine can rapidly improve symptoms in patients who do not get relief from antidepressant and antianxiety medications; clinical trials have demonstrated that up to 80% of people who suffer from depression
or suicidal thoughts get significant improvement in their symptoms after ketamine infusion therapy. If you are considering ketamine therapy, you want experienced care you can trust. Dr. Ibrahim is double board-certified in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology and has expertise managing medications for mood disorders and pain conditions. Dr. Seif is board-certified in Emergency Medicine and has extensive experience with ketamine in the emergency setting as well as managing psychiatric emergencies and pain crises. Both Dr. Ibrahim and Dr. Seif are members of the American Society of Ketamine Physicians and participate in collaborative work within the multidisciplinary ketamine community. “Our clinic provides a safe, calming environment for our patients to
experience the benefits of ketamine treatment. All evaluations and treatments are administered by a physician and each treatment is customtailored for the unique, individual needs of each of our patients,” says Dr. Seif. “We take pride in the time we spend getting to know our patients and feel privileged to help them on their path to wellness.”
AWARDED 2022 PHYSICIAN OF EXCELLENCE Infuse Ketamine Treatment Center 24411 Health Center Drive, Suite 430 Laguna Hills, CA 92653 949-452-3933 Infuseketamine.com January 2022 • Or a nge Coa st 129
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 83
PAIN MEDICINE David W. Lee Fullerton 714-879-0050
PATHOLOGY
Nazila Zekry Breast pathology Newport Beach 949-764-5636
PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIOLOGY
Christina Kendrick K Anaheim 714-644-3461 Nhat (Nathan) Le K Irvine 949-932-2446 Ramin Zolfagari K Irvine 949-932-2448
PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY
Anjan S. Batra Electrophysiology/ arrhythmias Orange 714-509-3939 Francesca A. Byrne Fetal cardiology, sports screening, noninvasive imaging Laguna Hills 877-430-7337 Anthony Chang Artificial intelligence, innovation in healthcare Orange 714-509-3939 Nita Doshi Pediatric/fetal cardiology, single ventricle survivorship Orange 714-509-7576 Nafiz Kiciman Congenital heart disease, simulation based education Orange 714-509-3939 Wyman W. Lai Noninvasive imaging, fetal cardiology Orange 714-509-3939 Uthara Mohan Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, athletic cardiac screening Newport Beach 949-646-1495
Gira S. Morchi Interventional pediatric cardiology Orange 714-509-3939 Pierangelo Renella Advanced cardiovascular imaging Orange 714-509-3939 Yuliya Turiy Costa Mesa 877-430-7337
PEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE
James Cappon Patient safety and quality Orange 714-509-8620 Jason Cook Crisis resource management, traumatic brain injury Orange 714-509-8620 Michele Domico Cardiac intensive care, extracorporeal life support Orange 714-509-8658 Gary Goodman Drowning prevention Orange 714-509-8620 Andrea Guardenier Orange 714-509-8620 Juliette Hunt Pediatric cardiac critical care medicine Orange 714-509-8658 Jason Knight Telemedicine Orange 714-509-8620 Patricia Liao International health, community outreach Orange 714-509-8620 Paul Lubinsky Orange 714-509-8620 Adam Schwarz Research trials Orange 714-509-8620
152 O R A N G E C O A S T • January 2022
PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE
Seth L. Brindis Orange 714-543-8911
PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY
Alan Cortez K Pediatric diabetes, transgender medicine, growth Tustin 888-988-2800 Mark Daniels Diabetes technology and pubertal disorders Orange 714-509-8634 Daina Dreimane Growth disorders in children Orange 714-509-8634 Nikta Forghani Diabetes, puberty, turner syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta Orange 714-509-8634 Himala Kashmiri, D.O. Thyroid cancer, ambiguous genitalia, growth Orange 714-509-8634 Christina Reh Type 1 diabetes, CFRD, transgender, Turner syndrome Orange 714-509-8634
PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY
Phyllis F. Agran K School health, injury prevention Tustin 714-329-2180 Ashish Chogle Functional and motility related gastrointestinal disorders Orange 714-509-4099 Jeffrey Ho, D.O. Intestinal rehabilitation, hepatology, capsule endoscopy Orange 714-509-4099 Mitchell Katz Orange 714-509-4099
Anup Patel Eosinophilic esophagitis Orange 714-509-4099 Barry Steinmetz Inflammatory bowel disease and eosinophilic esophagitis Costa Mesa 949-646-6224
Delma Nieves Pertussis, pneumococcus Orange 714-509-8403 Jasjit Singh Infection prevention, vaccines, global health Orange 714-509-8403
PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY/ ONCOLOGY
PEDIATRIC NEPHROLOGY
Geetha Puthenveetil Hemoglobinopathies, vascular anomalies, hemostasis-thrombosis, gene therapy Orange 714-509-8459 Naveen Qureshi K Anaheim 714-644-4824 Amit Soni Hemostasis/thrombosis, bone marrow failure Orange 714-509-8459
PEDIATRIC HOSPITAL MEDICINE
Jennifer D. Linzmeyer, D.O. K Simulation and critical care transport Anaheim 714-644-2000 Laura Totaro Orange 714-509-8826
PEDIATRIC INFECTIOUS DISEASES
Felice Adler-Shohet Bone and joint infections, TB, recurrent fever Orange 714-509-8403 Antonio Arrieta Immunocompromised hosts and antifungals Orange 714-509-8403 Negar Ashouri Kawasaki disease, antimicrobial stewardship Orange 714-509-8403
Patricia Veiga Orange 714-509-8324
PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY
Van Huynh Acute leukemia, immunotherapy, CAR T-cell therapy Orange 714-509-4348 Carol Lin Leukemia/lymphoma program, cancer survivorship program Orange 714-509-4348 Elyssa Rubin Sarcomas, neuroblastomas, other solid tumors Orange 714-509-4348 Lilibeth Torno Sarcoma, cancer survivorship, histiocytosis, ovarian/ testicular tumors Orange 714-509-4348
PEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY
Susan Gage Bronchopulmonary dysplasia, cystic fibrosis, asthma Orange 714-509-8709 Amy Harrison Asthma, lung disease, prematurity, post-COVID Newport Beach 949-220-0510 Neal Nakra Pediatric sleep medicine Orange 714-509-7679
Pornchai Tirakitsoontorn Cystic fibrosis, asthma, bronchoscopy, chronic cough Orange 714-509-7679 Anchalee Yuengsrigul Asthma, chronic lung disease, cystic fibrosis Orange 714-509-8622
PEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY AND SLEEP MEDICINE Chana Chin Orange 714-997-3000 John Saito Post-COVID Syndrome Fountain Valley 714-537-7718
PEDIATRIC RADIOLOGY
Azam Eghbal Orange 714-509-9160 Liliane Gibbs Pediatric teleradiology Anaheim 714-458-8992 W. Nathan Holmes Orange 714-509-9160
PEDIATRIC SPORTS MEDICINE Kelly F. Davis Orange 714-633-2111 Chris G. Koutures Anaheim Hills 714-974-2220
PEDIATRIC SURGERY
John German Pilonidal cysts Orange 714-361-4480 Maryam Gholizadeh Pediatric surgical oncology Orange 714-364-4050 David L. Gibbs Orange 714-364-4050 Mustafa Kabeer Pectus excavatum, hernia, neonatal Orange 714-364-4050
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 Vinh Lam Minimally invasive surgery, neonatal congenital anomalies Orange 714-361-4480 Peter Yu Minimally invasive, thoracic and fetal surgery Orange 714-364-4050
PEDIATRICS
Steven Abelowitz ADHD, development, anxiety, depression Newport Beach 949-759-1720 Behnoosh Afghani Infectious diseases, medical education, outreach Orange 714-509-2562 Sinda Althoen Santa Ana 714-288-3230 Katherine Andreeff Pediatric hospital medicine Orange 714-509-8826 Paulina J. Avendano Behavioral pediatrics San Clemente 949-429-7700 Yvonne Bach K Garden Grove 888-988-2800 Jennifer Birkhauser Well/sick care Huntington Beach 714-477-8001 Bette Carlson Newborns, nutrition, adolescents Costa Mesa 714-668-2525 Annie Carr K Anaheim 888-988-2800 Dayna Chin Pediatric hospital medicine Orange 714-509-8826 Melitza J. CobhamBrowne Adolescent health, medical education and mentorship Santa Ana 657-282-6355 Matthew K. Coulson Clinical informatics, immunizations Laguna Hills 949-448-0656
Angela S. Dangvu Breastfeeding support Tustin 714-565-7960 Nancy Daisy Dodd K Infectious disease Anaheim 888-988-2800 Afif El-Hasan K Asthma San Juan Capistrano 888-988-2800 Svetlana Gorodetski Pediatric hospital medicine Orange 714-509-8826 Jennifer Ho Pediatric hospital medicine Orange 714-509-8826 Lisa Hoang Mental health, early development, sleep, asthma Mission Viejo 949-242-6915 Irene Kan K Anaheim 888-988-2800 Daniel Kang Hospital, medical education Orange 714-456-5631 Renuka Kar Neonatal-perinatal, hospital medicine Orange 714-509-3096 Romit Kar Teaching Newport Beach 949-662-0152 Altaf Kazi K Community medicine, child maltreatment Tustin 714-430-2616 Quynh Kieu Child development, global health Fountain Valley 714-546-6575 Connie Lin K Dermatology, injury prevention Santa Ana 888-988-2800 Liberty Lowe K Lifestyle medicine San Juan Capistrano 949-234-2098 Jennifer Lusk Pediatric hospital medicine Orange 714-509-8826
Suzanne McNulty Sports medicine, mental health, learning disabilities Mission Viejo 949-206-0001 Elenea M. Medina K Santa Ana 888-988-2800 Anjali Monga Autism and adolescent pediatrics Irvine 949-733-2800 Penny R. Murata Medical education Santa Ana 657-282-6355 Maria Nguyen K Garden Grove 833-574-2273 Hanh-Uyen Nguyen-Tang Orange 714-509-8826 Leticia Oliveros Health disparities latino community, immunizations, obesity Anaheim 657-282-6356 Sarah O'Loughlin Preventive care, newborns, asthma Orange 714-628-3230 Lori Openshaw Newborn care, infant/child nutrition, lactation Laguna Hills 949-951-5437 Dilip Patel Growth and development of high-risk neonates Orange 714-509-8632 Sameer Pathare Pediatric hospital medicine Orange 714-509-8826 Georgie Pechulis Pediatric hospital medicine Orange 714-509-8826 Harry Pellman Vaccinology, breastfeeding, nutrition, education Fountain Valley 714-509-4600 Myriam B. Perez K Perinatal medicine Anaheim 714-644-3303
Sharon T. Pham K Pediatric hospital medicine, physician advocacy Anaheim 714-644-2000 Zacharia Reda Pediatric pulmonary and critical care Newport Beach 949-644-0970 Varalakshmi Reddy Pediatric obesity Santa Ana 714-334-9355 Johanna RodriguezToledo Breastfeeding Mission Viejo 949-364-8700 Valerie Sheppard Newport Beach 949-644-0970 David Shinmei K La Habra 833-574-2273 Michelle Solomon K EHR, workflow, breastfeeding, food insecurity Garden Grove 714-741-3408 Barbara Stefanides K Chronic pain in pediatrics Mission Viejo 949-455-4327 Taylor Tran Newborn care Santa Ana 714-288-3230 Eric Troyan K Nutrition and asthma Mission Viejo 833-574-2273 Trung Tristan Truong Infants, children, adolescents Rancho Mission Viejo 949-542-7700 Patrick Van Winkle K Anaheim 888-988-2800 Roopa Viraraghavan K Infectious disease, tropical and travel medicine Anaheim 833-574-2273 Tommy Wang Medical education Orange 714-456-5631
Michael A. Weiss, D.O. Population health Orange 714-509-7030 Katherine Williamson Healthy active living Ladera Ranch 949-388-1798
PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION Eric Chang Pain management Orange 714-598-1745 Danielle Perret Karimi Pain medicine Irvine 949-824-7246
PLASTIC SURGERY
Michael A. Bain Aesthetic surgery, wound and hyperbaric medicine Newport Beach 949-720-0270 Semira Bayati Aesthetic surgery, noninvasive rejuvenation, laser specialist Newport Beach 949-756-0400 Gregory R.D. Evans Aesthetic surgery, cancer reconstruction Orange 714-456-5253 Jon M. Grazer Aesthetic surgery Newport Beach 949-644-1240 Sanjay Grover Aesthetic surgery of the face, body Newport Beach 949-759-9551 Daniel Jaffurs Pediatric plastic and craniofacial surgery Orange 714-456-5253 Michael K. Lee Mission Viejo 949-364-1010 Michael McConnell Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery Fullerton 714-446-5180 Dong Jun (John) Park Aesthetic and oculoplastic surgery Newport Beach 949-777-6883
Keyian Paydar Aesthetic surgery, breast, body, face, neck Newport Beach 949-755-0575 Nirav Savalia Aesthetic and reconstructive surgery Newport Beach 949-759-0980 Hisham Seify Cosmetic surgery Newport Beach 949-251-1502 Michael Sundine Facelift, rhinoplasty, cosmetic surgery Newport Beach 949-706-3100 Robert E. Tuchler K Irvine 949-932-5105 Raj Vyas Facial aesthetic and reconstructive surgery Orange 714-456-5282 Robert M. Wald, Jr. Cosmetic surgery Fullerton 714-738-4282 Garrett Wirth Aesthetic cosmetic surgery Newport Beach 949-706-9988
PSYCHIATRY
Gustavo Alva Neuropsychiatry, Alzheimer's disease, major depressive disorders Costa Mesa 833-487-2582 Rimal Bera Adult psychiatry Orange 714-456-6898 Barton J. Blinder Child psychiatry, eating disorders, psychoanalysis and neuroscience advances Newport Beach 949-640-4440 Weiming (David) Chu Child and adolescent psychiatry Santa Ana 714-543-5609 Neel Doshi, D.O. K Child and adolescent psychiatry Santa Ana 714-644-6480
January 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 153
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 Reza Farokhpay Young adult psychosis and bipolar Orange 714-456-7304 Anju Hurria Child/adolescent psychiatry, wellness, and autism Orange 714-456-5902 Aaron Kheriaty Medical ethics Orange 714-456-5902 Nishant Kumar, D.O. K Addiction psychiatry and addiction medicine Laguna Hills 714-644-6480 Mahnaz Pezeshpour K Treating adults, children, adolescents with ADHD Santa Ana 714-644-6480 Adrian Preda Orange 714-456-8688 David Safani Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, pediatrics Orange 714-456-5902 Pranav Shah K Wellness, mindfulness, chronic pain Santa Ana 714-644-6480 Felicia Wong K Emergency and consultation-liaison psychiatry Irvine 833-574-2273
PULMONARY DISEASE
Devang Savani Pulmonary, sleep, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary fibrosis Placentia 714-577-9500
PULMONARY DISEASE AND CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE
Joseph L. Chan K Anaheim 714-644-2156 George M. Girgis Sleep medicine Tustin 714-772-8282 Robert Goldberg Asthma Mission Viejo 949-364-3330 Usman Shah Sepsis clinical research, post-critical care recovery Newport Beach 949-764-6876 Andy Tran Pulmonary hypertension Fullerton 714-992-3000 x3226 Bassam Yaghmour Pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure Orange 714-456-7720
PULMONARY DISEASE, CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE, SLEEP MEDICINE
Rahul M. Kale Sleep disorders San Juan Capistrano 949-443-4303
RADIATION ONCOLOGY
Allen M. Chen Orange 714-456-8074
REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY AND INFERTILITY
Jane Frederick Assisted reproductive technologies Newport Beach 949-287-5600 Mark Kan IVF Newport Beach 949-222-1290 Daniel Potter Pre-implantation genetic testing, gender selection Newport Beach 949-287-5600
Jooby Babu Santa Ana 714-836-6800
154 O R A N G E C O A S T • January 2022
Marcus Rosencrantz Infertility, IVF, egg freezing Laguna Hills 949-516-0606
RHEUMATOLOGY
Sheetal B. Desai Lupus, APS, scleroderma, myositis Orange 714-880-7812 Allen R. Schenk Musculoskeletal ultrasound, osteoporosis/DEXA Laguna Hills 949-238-4100
SURGERY
Hector Arroyo K Laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery Anaheim 714-644-3340 Saeed-Ur-Rehman Awan Pediatric surgery, neonatal surgery, hepatobiliary, hernias Orange 714-364-4050 Steven Beanes Hernia repair Newport Beach 949-791-6767 Michele Carpenter Breast cancer surgery Orange 714-565-0166 Shaun Daly Gastroesophageal reflux disease, bariatric surgery Orange 714-456-8598 Hang Dang, D.O. Breast surgical oncology Newport Beach 949-763-2204 Nora Evans Colon and rectal surgery, breast surgery Laguna Hills 949-457-7900 Lisa E. Guerra Breast surgical oncology Newport Beach 949-272-2095 Todd S. Harris Hernia surgery, fibroid surgery, endovascular surgery Newport Beach 949-221-0136
Marcelo Hinojosa Bariatrics, gastroesophageal surgery, hernia surgery, robotics Orange 714-456-6262 Michael Hurwitz Robotic/laparoscopic surgery Newport Beach 949-791 6767 David Imagawa Pancreas, liver, bile duct, gallbladder cancers Orange 714-456-3884 Sadia Khan, D.O. Breast surgical oncology Newport Beach 949-764-8281 Karen T. Lane Breast surgery Orange 714-456-8505 Erin Lin Breast surgery Orange 714-456-8000 Anne Luhan Venous and lymphatic medicine Mission Viejo 949-388-4800 Jeffry Nahmias Acute care surgery, high value care Orange 714-456-5890 Ninh T. Nguyen Bariatric surgery, GI surgery Orange 888-717-4463 Mohd Raashid Sheikh Hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery Newport Beach 949-764-6665 Brian R. Smith Reflux, gastrointestinal cancers, bariatric surgery, hernias Orange 714-456-8160 Lincoln Snyder Breast surgery Newport Beach 949-791-6767 William Wallace Advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery Laguna Hills 949-457-7900
Aaron P. Wilcox K Abdominal wall reconstruction, parathyroid surgery Irvine 888-988-2800 Jason Wong Robotic surgery Laguna Hills 949-457-7913 Nader Yamin K Advanced laparoscopy Irvine 888-988-2800 Kambiz Zainabadi K Minimally invasive surgery Irvine 888-988-2800
SURGERY, CARDIAC
Anthony Caffarelli Adult cardiac surgery Newport Beach 949-650-3350
SURGERY, COLON AND RECTAL
Joseph C. Carmichael Orange 714-456-8511 Anita Gregory Colorectal cancer, cancer genetics, robotic surgery Orange 714-835-8300 Bryan D. Loh K Anaheim 714-644-3341 Steven D. Mills Orange 714-456-8511 Michael J. Stamos Rectal cancer, minimally invasive surgery Orange 714-456-5456
SURGERY, NEUROLOGICAL
Lars Anker Orange 714-450-6880 Jefferson W. Chen Neurotrauma Orange 714-456-6966 Sooho Choi K Anaheim 888-988-2800 Christopher Duma Brain tumors Newport Beach 949-642-6787
Kiarash Golshani Endovascular, neurointerventional radiology Orange 714-456-6966 Hector Ho Brain tumors, spinal disorders, cerebrovascular Fullerton 714-734-3120 Frank P.K. Hsu Skull base, cerebrovascular Orange 714-456-6966 Robert Jackson Cervical spine surgery Laguna Hills 949-588-5800 Keun-young (Anthony) Kim Complex spine and deformity Mission Viejo 949-388-3800 Mark E. Linskey Brain tumor, skull base, trigeminal neuralgia Orange 714-456-6966 Robert Louis Minimally invasive brain tumor surgery Newport Beach 949-383-4185 Farzad Massoudi Brain and spine Laguna Hills 949-588-5800 Michael G. Muhonen Pediatric neurological surgery Orange 714-509-7070 Bradley Noblett Brain tumors, complex spine Fullerton 714-734-3120 Burak Ozgur Minimally invasive spine surgery Irvine 949-383-4190 Vikas Rao Brain, spine, cerebrovascular and endovascular neurosurgery Mission Viejo 949-388-7190
TOP DOCTORS | 2022 Alexander Taghva Cervical artificial disc, spinal cord stimulation Mission Viejo 949-388-7190 Sumeet Vadera Epilepsy surgery Orange 714-456-6966 Daniel Yanni Minimally invasive and complex spine surgery Newport Beach 949-515-0051
SURGERY, ORTHOPEDIC
Kent R. Adamson Mission Viejo 949-348-4000 David Ashkenaze Minimally invasive spine surgery Laguna Beach 949-499-8226 Steven Barnett Adult reconstruction Irvine 714-634-4567 Nitin Bhatia Spine surgery Orange 949-515-5210 Donald E. Bittner Ortho hand surgery Fullerton 714-732-7767 Michael Burdi Spine surgery Mission Viejo 949-348-4000 K. Lauchlan Chambers Sports medicine, shoulder surgery Fountain Valley 714-850-7300 Rick P. Csintalan K Knee, sports medicine Irvine 888-988-2800 Brent R. Davis K Sports medicine Irvine 888-988-2800 Emil Dionysian K Hand surgery Anaheim 714-644-2327 David Downs Sports medicine, joint replacement Fullerton 714-879-0050
Daniel Duggan, D.O. Sports medicine Mission Viejo 949-393-3193 Mark Elzik Hand surgery Mission Viejo 949-364-2154 Payam Farjoodi Minimally invasive spine surgery Fountain Valley 714-850-7300 Tad Funahashi K Sports medicine Irvine 833-574-2273 Michael Gillman Patient-specific orthopedics Orange 714-598-1745 Scott Graham Sports, arthroscopic surgery Laguna Woods 949-586-3200 Bradley Greenbaum Sports medicine Irvine 949-451-1454 Robert C. Grumet Sports medicine Orange 714-634-4567 Ranjan Gupta Shoulder surgery Orange 714-456-7012 Andrew R. Hsu Foot and ankle surgery Orange 714-456-1699 Nimish Kadakia Sports medicine Irvine 949-586-3200 Jonathan Kaplan Foot and ankle surgery Orange 714-634-4567 Kiarash (Kevin) Khajavi Knee and shoulder surgery Fullerton 714-626-8642 Zafar Khan Spine surgery Fountain Valley 714-850-7300 Abraham D. Kim Hip and knee replacement Laguna Woods 949-586-3200
Arthur T. Lee K Hand surgery Irvine 949-932-5140 Eric W. Lee Knee/shoulder, sports, PRP, stem cells Orange 714-538-8549 Yu-Po Lee Spine surgery Orange 714-456-7012 Michael Marandola Orthopedic sports medicine, joint reconstruction/replacement Mission Viejo 949-348-4000 Mohamed E. Moussa K Total joint replacement Irvine 888-988-2800 Samuel Park Hip and knee replacements Mission Viejo 949-364-2154 Brett Peterson K Hand and microvascular surgery, orthopedic trauma Irvine 949-932-5000 Gregory Rafijah Hand Orange 714-456-1699 Jason Richards K Anaheim 714-644-2368 Nicholas E. Rose Hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder surgery Newport Beach 949-759-3600 John Schlechter, D.O. Pediatric sports medicine Orange 714-633-2111 John Scolaro Orthopedic trauma Orange 714-456-7012 Stewart Shanfield Fullerton 714-626-8030
David So Hip and knee replacement Orange 714-456-7012 Roger Sohn Shoulder reconstructive and arthroscopic surgery San Juan Capistrano 949-691-3131 Shahram Shawn Solhpour Shoulder and knee surgery, cartilage preservation Fullerton 714-626-8630 Stephen Tocci Foot and ankle surgery Mission Viejo 949-348-4000 Edward Yian K Orthopedic shoulder surgery Anaheim 714-644-7111
SURGERY, ORTHOPEDIC - HAND Ying Chi Hand and microsurgery Fountain Valley 714-434-3518
SURGERY, THORACIC
John Maurice Thoracic oncology, minimally invasive/ robotic surgery Orange 714-835-1800 Daryl P. Pearlstein Robotic thoracic surgery Newport Beach 949-764-6166 Ledford Powell Lung cancer and chest wall reconstruction Laguna Hills 949-716-2400
SURGERY, THORACIC AND CARDIAC
Richard Gates Pediatric cardiac surgery Orange 714-509-4641 Joanne Starr Congenital and pediatric cardiothoracic surgery Orange 714-509-4641
SURGERY, VASCULAR
Jeffrey L. Ballard TOS, aortic aneurysms, carotid artery disease Orange 714-532-0793 D. Daniel Dearing Carotid, arterial, venous, aneurysms, dialysis, trauma Laguna Hills 949-457-7900 Carlos Donayre Aortic surgery and related diseases Orange 714-456-5453 Roy M. Fujitani Aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease, surgical education Orange 714-456-5453 Nii-Kabu Kabutey Endovascular management of abdominal aortic aneurysms Orange 714-456-5453 Isabella J. Kuo Orange 714-456-5453 Russell Montgomery Aneurysm surgery, carotid surgery, peripheral vascular disease Orange 714-532-0793 Steven P. Posner Minimally invasive vascular and endovascular surgery Orange 714-532-0793 Wang Teng Complex aortic aneurysm and carotid disease Laguna Hills 949-457-7900
SURGICAL ONCOLOGY Maki Yamamoto Orange 714-456-8000
TRANSFUSION MEDICINE
Minh-Ha Tran, D.O. Orange 714-456-8925
UROLOGY
Kai-wen Chuang Pediatric urology Orange 714-509-3914 Ralph V. Clayman Kidney and ureteral stone disease Orange 714-456-6849 Joel Gelman Penile and urethral reconstructive surgery Orange 714-456-2951 Gamal Ghoniem Female pelvic medicine and reconstruction surgery Orange 888-268-1108 Mark L. Jordan Orange 714-456-6717 Jaime Landman Minimally invasive kidney stone and cancer management Orange 714-456-3330 Ross M. Moskowitz Orange 714-456-7005 M. Leon Seard, II Orange 714-456-5371 Karan J. Singh Vasectomies, UroLift, greenlight laser, incontinence, botox Mission Viejo 949-855-1101 Aaron Spitz Male reproductive and sexual medicine Laguna Hills 949-855-1101 Neyssan Tebyani Robotic surgery, incontinence, kidney stones, prostate Laguna Hills 949-855-1101 Edward Uchio Urologic oncology Orange 714-456-6896 Elias Wehbi Pediatric urology Orange 714-509-3914 Faysal A. Yafi Men's health Newport Beach 714-456-5378
January 2022 • O R A N G E C O A S T 155