West Dermatology

Stephanie Santos, PA-C

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Stephanie Santos, PA-C


Specialties

Languages I Speak
English

About Me

Passionate about Dermatology since childhood, I’ve transformed my love into a profession. My journey began in cosmetology school after high school, where I honed my skills as an Esthetician in a medical spa, deepening my fascination with Dermatology. This drove me back to school to earn a Physician Assistant degree, solidifying my commitment to prioritize patients’ overall skin health.

With a strong foundation in skincare treatments from my esthetician background, I take pride in crafting personalized skincare regimens tailored to address individual concerns – from reducing wrinkles to preventing breakouts and enhancing skin tone and vitality. My experience lies in both surgical and cosmetic Dermatology, areas that I find most fulfilling.

I believe in fostering collaborative relationships with patients, involving them in their medical decisions, and creating a comfortable environment for them to express their needs.

Outside of Dermatology, I enjoy exploring new cities and cultures with my husband and especially enjoy trips to the beach with our beloved dog, Marley.

“My goal at every appointment is to make patients feel seen and heard.”

Education

  • Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies

Dominican University of California San Rafael, CA

  • Bachelor of Science in Biology

Minor in Physical Science

California State University Fresno, CA

Post Grad

  • Board Certified Physician Assistant (NCCPA)
  • Licensed Physician Assistant, State of California
  • Licensed Physician Assistant, State of Nevada
  • DEA License
  • Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants Fellow

Where I Practice

Moats Skin Specialists

116 South Palisade Dr
Suite 208
Santa Maria CA 93454

805-922-3632

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Tara Braun, MD

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Tara Braun, MD


Specialties
Cosmetic Dermatology
Medical Dermatology
Surgical Dermatology

Languages I Speak
English

NPI
1407353303

About Me

Dr. Braun, an esteemed dermatologist, specializes in comprehensive care for skin, hair, and nails across all age groups, offering expertise in medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology. Her special interests include acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer screenings and surgical treatment, dermal fillers, Dysport, Botox, platelet-rich plasma, and much more.

Raised in Texas, Maryland, Florida, and Colorado, Dr. Braun pursued her undergraduate studies at the University of Florida as a distinguished Lombardi Scholar. This scholarship provided her with invaluable experiences, encompassing study and volunteer work in Mexico, South Africa, and Peru. Additionally, she explored digital photography, creative writing, and art history during a memorable semester in Rome, Italy. Graduating Cum Laude and as an Anderson Scholar with Highest Distinction, she earned induction into the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa Honors Society.

Returning to Texas for her medical education at Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. Braun excelled during her Dermatology residency and a research fellowship at Texas Children’s Hospital. Her contributions include over 80 medical publications and presentations at local, national, and international conferences. She dedicated her time to philanthropy, serving underserved patients at Homes Clinic and children with challenging illnesses at Camp for All.

Formerly practicing dermatology in Houston, Texas, Dr. Braun now calls San Diego, California home. Passionate about instilling confidence in her patients and fostering meaningful relationships, she remains dedicated to staying current with advancements in dermatological treatment through active participation in academic gatherings and workshops.

Outside of work, Dr. Braun enjoys road trips across California and reconnecting with family in Texas, Colorado, and Florida. Her interests include photography, exploring San Diego with her husband and dog, practicing yoga and meditation, and maintaining an active lifestyle at the gym.

"I provide compassionate dermatological care focused on education, communication, and patient-centered results. I work with my patients as a team to achieve their goals during all stages of their lives"

Education

Dermatology Residency

Baylor College of Medicine – Houston, TX

 

Doctor of Medicine

Baylor College of Medicine – Houston, TX

 

Additional Honors Received:

  • Phi Beta Kappa Honors Society
  • Cum Laude
  • Anderson Scholar with Highest Distinction

Post Grad

Licensure and Certifications

  • Board Certified in Dermatology

 

Professional Memberships

  • San Diego Dermatological Society
  • American Academy of Dermatology
  • Women’s Dermatology Society
  • American Medical Association

Where I Practice

West Dermatology Encinitas

477 N. El Camino Real
Suite D-308
Encinitas CA 92024

(760) 436-2300

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West Dermatology Mission/San Diego

9095 Rio San Diego Dr
Suite 300
San Diego CA 92108

(619) 298-9809

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Raheel Zubair, MD

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Raheel Zubair, MD


Specialties
Cosmetic Dermatology
Dermatoimmunology
Medical Dermatology
Surgical Dermatology

Languages I Speak
English

About Me

Dr. Zubair was born and raised in New Jersey. He received his undergraduate and graduate training at Johns Hopkins University before entering medical school at Georgetown University School of Medicine. He completed his dermatology residency at Broward Health where he saw patients at Cleveland Clinic, Broward County Hospital, Nicklaus Miami Children’s Hospital, and the West Palm Beach VA. He underwent an intensive cosmetic surgery fellowship under the mentorship of globally recognized pioneers in the field, including Dr. Goldman, Dr. Butterwick, Dr. Fabi, Dr. Groff, and Dr. Wu. Prior to becoming a physician, Dr. Zubair had been an EMT in North Plainfield and used ABA therapy to help toddlers with autism spectrum disorder in Bayonne.

 

His passion for dermatology and aesthetics arises from their transformative impact on a person’s quality of life and well-being. His aesthetic philosophy prioritizes using non-invasive treatments that leverage the body’s regenerative power to heal itself. Your personalized treatments will deliver long-term, natural-appearing results and maintain your unique facial harmony with minimal downtime. His deep understanding of the nuances of treating skin of color and mastering the effects of energy-based treatment on the skin positions him as an expert in the dermatologist community.

 

Outside of dermatology, Dr. Zubair’s interests include activism, mixed martial arts, and movies. He lives in the UTC area of San Diego with his girlfriend, Jessica, and their cat, America.

“I hope to provide patients with the freedom to live the life they choose without boundaries dictated by their skin conditions. My dream is to allow my patients to be able to face the world with an identity they decide for themselves.”

Education

  • Undergraduate and Graduate Training: Johns Hopkins University
  • Doctor of Medicine: Georgetown University School of Medicine
  • Dermatology Residency: Broward Health

Post Grad

  • American Academy of Dermatology
  • American Society of Dermatologic Surgery
  • American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery
  • Skin of Color Society
  • The Photodermatology Society
  • The Society for Investigative Dermatology

Where I Practice

West Dermatology La Jolla/UTC

9339 Genesee Ave
Suite 350A
San Diego CA 92121

(858) 454-4300

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Douglas C. Wu, MD, PHD

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Douglas C. Wu, MD, PHD

Dr. Douglas Wu

Specialties
Cosmetic Dermatology

Languages I Speak
English

About Me

Originally from Edmonton in Alberta Canada, Douglas C. Wu, MD, PhD is a double board-certified dermatologist in both Canada and the USA with specialty training in cosmetic surgery via the prestigious American Society of Dermatologic Surgery Fellowship program. Dr. Wu got into medicine so he could help people live healthier and happier lives. He received his PhD in Immunology and Stem Cell Biology from the University of Oxford University. He specializes in wrinkle reduction, volume restoration with injectable fillers, laser rejuvenation, tattoo removal, vein removal, liposculpture, non-invasive body contouring using devices such as CoolSculpting®, and skin tightening. Dr. Wu believes that everyone has a natural beauty to them and his goal is to help them be the best version of themselves.

Dr. Wu has authored numerous medical articles and textbook chapters in both general and aesthetic dermatological literature and has lectured at major conferences across the globe. He was in the Top 15 most published doctors in Dermatologic Surgery, the premiere peer-reviewed medical journal in dermatology. Dr. Wu utilizes cutting-edge techniques to develop uniquely tailored treatments designed to address the specific needs of his patients. Dr. Wu feels like his patients are like family, and he cares very much about every aspect of their experience.

In addition to his busy clinical practice, Dr. Wu serves as Director of Research at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, CA, supervising between 20 and 30 ongoing clinical trials at any given time. This work places him at the forefront of discovery and innovation in cosmetic dermatology. These trials have included collaborations with Allergan Inc® (Botox® Cosmetic, Juvéderm®, Voluma® XC), Galderma® (Restylane®, Perlane®, Dysport®), Merz Pharma (Radiesse®, Belotero®, Xeomin®), Ulthera®, Thermage®, CoolSculpting, ThermiRF®, Cynosure®, Syneron®, and many others.

RealSelf Top Contributor Logo for Dr. Wu in San DiegoBy testing and optimizing new products and devices, Dr. Wu is often amongst the first doctors in the world to gain experience with them. He is therefore often called upon to train other physicians and aesthetic practitioners in the proper techniques and utilization of these products. Dr. Wu has successfully treated thousands of patients using the most advanced skill sets and technologies and has been named a “Top Contributor” on the medical information site RealSelf!

After graduating from the University of Toronto with a BSc in Human Biology, Dr. Wu pursued a medical degree at the University of Alberta. Partway through his medical education, he received a full scholarship to attend the University of Oxford, England. While at Oxford, Dr. Wu completed a Ph.D. in Immunology and Stem Cell Biology before returning to Canada to finish his dermatology residency. Further cosmetic surgery training included completion of a fellowship through the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. View Dr. Douglas Wu’s curriculum vitae.

Dr. Wu speaks both English and Cantonese fluently. Outside of the clinic, he enjoys competitive badminton and classical piano.

To learn more or to see Dr. Wu’s before & after photos, click here.

“I believe that everyone deserves to celebrate and enhance their natural, unique beauty. It is an honor to help each patient age as beautifully and gracefully as possible through subtle, precise treatments.”

Where I Practice

Cosmetic Laser Dermatology

9339 Genesee Avenue
Suite 300
San Diego California 92121

858-943-2113

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William F. Groff, DO

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William F. Groff, DO


Specialties
Cosmetic Dermatology

Languages I Speak
English

About Me

 

Dr. William Groff is a board-certified dermatologist in San Diego, CA who has specialized in cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery for over 20 years. He is recognized as an acclaimed expert with laser procedures, cosmetic injectables, vein therapy, body contouring, liposculpture, tattoo removal, pearly penile papules (PPP), scar removal, and skin tightening treatments. He also has an excellent reputation for correcting “botched” laser and cosmetic procedures performed by others.

Over his distinguished career, Dr. Groff has achieved several prestigious awards, but the most meaningful recognition to him is from his patients. For consecutive years, Dr. Groff has been voted the winner in three San Diego “Best Of” contests. He is ranked #1 Dermatologist, #1 Cosmetic Surgeon, and #1 Cosmetic Dermatologist in all of San Diego.

For each of his patients, Dr. Groff creates a personalized plan based on their unique cosmetic goals. Every patient is considered special with their individualized needs. He uses state-of-the-art procedures and innovative techniques that are designed to ensure natural-looking results.

Men and women choose Dr. Groff to help them achieve their cosmetic goals because Dr. Groff has the experience you can trust!

 

PHILOSOPHY

Dr. Groff’s mission is to provide his patients with honest, thorough evaluations and to recommend and perform procedures to achieve optimal results. His philosophy is to enhance each individual’s natural appearance in a way that makes them look rejuvenated and produces a natural-looking result with minimal treatment.

Dr. Groff sets the standard for excellence in patient care. He feels that his patients deserve to receive the highest quality of care and service with each treatment. He strives to give his patients 5-star service!

Additionally, Dr. Groff believes that his availability is critical to his patients. His patients know they can contact him anytime with their concerns. He takes great pride in his ability to transform lives, one patient at a time. He has helped thousands of men and women throughout the United States gain confidence in their appearance and gain a new lease on life.

PROUDLY SERVED OUR COUNTRY

Dr. Groff graduated from Penn State University with the goal of becoming a doctor. He entered medical school at PCOM in Philadelphia and received the highly-coveted U.S. Naval Health Professions Scholarship Award.

After graduating at the top of his class, Dr. Groff moved to San Diego to begin his postgraduate work. He completed a surgical internship at the Naval Medical Center San Diego, and, upon graduation, was accepted into flight school at the U.S. Naval Aerospace Medicine Institute in Pensacola, Florida. As a Flight Surgeon, Dr. Groff was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, California and accumulated over 200 hours of flight time in the F/A-18 Hornet. He also deployed to the Persian Gulf aboard the USS Nimitz, accruing flight time and taking care of sick and injured Marines and sailors.

Once he completed a 3-year flight tour at MCAS Miramar, Dr. Groff was selected into the dermatology program at the Naval Medical Center, San Diego. During his residency, he trained under one of the top cosmetic laser surgeons in the world. Upon graduation, Dr. Groff had performed more laser procedures than any other graduating resident in the country. Board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology, he spent two years as the Department Head of Dermatology and Laser Surgery at Naval Hospital Yokosuka, Japan. Dr. Groff is extremely proud of his time in the Navy and serving his country. Click here to view Dr. Groff’s CV.

INNOVATOR

Dr. Groff prides himself on staying on top of the newest techniques in order to offer his patients the most cutting-edge cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery procedures. Cosmetic Laser Dermatology has over 50 laser and light-based devices. Dr. Groff has also participated in many clinical research trials that have led to the FDA approval of several cosmetic laser devices and cosmetic injectables.

Dr. Groff prides himself on staying on top of the newest techniques in order to offer his patients the most cutting-edge cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery procedures.

Being an innovator, Dr. Groff has pioneered some of the latest advances in laser skin resurfacing, including a technique called Take10. Take10 is a non-surgical alternative to a facelift. By combining the use of multiple laser treatments and therapies (including fillers and Botox), Dr. Groff is able to rejuvenate the skin and treat the signs of aging by reducing the appearance of sun damage, wrinkles, skin imperfections on a patient’s face, neck and chest. This technique provides patients with incredible results, making them look 10 to 15 years younger.

TRAINING PHYSICIAN & LECTURER

Dr. Groff is well-known among his peers for being an outstanding Training Physician for injectables and lasers.

As an advanced cosmetic injector, Dr. Groff serves as a trainer and key opinion leader for Allergan Inc® (Botox Cosmetic, Juvéderm®, Voluma™ XC, Kybella, and Volbella), Galderma (Restylane®, Perlane®, Dysport®, and Sculptra Aesthetic), and Merz Pharm. (Radiesse®, Belotero®, Xeomin®). As a master trainer, Dr. Groff teaches other physicians advanced injection techniques using these products.

Having a true passion for cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery, Dr. Groff travels worldwide to lecture on the latest advances in cosmetic dermatology to fellow dermatologists and plastic surgeons. As a leader in his field, Dr. Groff has given over 100 lectures in 10 different countries on laser resurfacing, cosmetic injectables and body contouring. Dr. Groff has also published over 15 articles in peer-reviewed dermatology and plastic surgery journals.

MEDIA SPOKESPERSON

Realself Top Contributor Logo for Dr. GroffDr. Groff has been featured several times on the nationally televised show The Doctors and has appeared on both national and local television news programs. He is also a regular Dermatology Correspondent on Fox News and has been named a “Top Contributor” on RealSelf.

Dr. Groff’s media appearances can be seen on his YouTube channel, which has over 100 videos discussing cosmetic dermatology topics and demonstrating various procedures. Dr. Groff adds new videos to his channel on a regular basis. To be alerted when a new video is released, SUBSCRIBE to his YouTube channel.

CARING MAN

Dr. Groff and his wife, Stacey, reside in San Diego with their two daughters, Jenna Alexis and Piper Silk. While on his Naval tour of duty in Japan, Dr. Groff and his family fell in love with the Japanese culture and the people.

On March 11, 2011, the Groffs were devastated to hear about the tsunami that killed many of their Japanese friends and left thousands of children homeless. Even today, residents of Japan are still recovering from this disaster. Since the tsunami, Dr. Groff and his family work tirelessly fundraising and supporting Helping Hands for Tohoku, an organization that helps those living in temporary housing following the 2011 tsunami.

Giving back is a priority in Dr. Groff’s life. To help local children, it is a Groff family tradition to help the Marine Corps with fundraising and collecting toys to donate to Toys For Tots.

In his spare time, Dr. Groff enjoys weightlifting, surfing, snowboarding, and international travel.

To learn more and to see Dr. Groff’s before & after photos, click here.

“Striving to make a difference in each patient’s life, my primary focus is on exceptional patient care and achieving beautiful, natural results. My greatest reward is having patients tell me that my cosmetic and laser procedures have enhanced their confidence and well-being.”

Where I Practice

Cosmetic Laser Dermatology

9339 Genesee Avenue
Suite 300
San Diego California 92121

858-943-2113

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West Dermatology

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Mitchel P. Goldman, MD

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Mitchel P. Goldman, MD


Specialties
Cosmetic Dermatology

Languages I Speak
English

About Me

Inspired by his father to choose a profession that provided a valuable service to his community, Mitchel P. Goldman, MD started practicing medicine in 1982 and completed his dermatology residency in 1986. He is board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology and a Diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.

Dr. Goldman was President of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) and Founder and President of the American College of Phlebology. Originally from Miami Beach, Florida, Dr. Goldman is a graduate of Stanford University Medical School and Boston University (Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa). Dr. Goldman is recognized for pioneering research on multiple laser techniques, skin rejuvenation, liposculpture, and vein therapy.

Dr. Goldman is considered a leading medical authority around the world and has authored 14 medical textbooks, some in 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th editions, on cosmetic and laser surgery, dermatology, sclerotherapy, ambulatory phlebectomy, and cellulite, several of which are considered definitive medical texts in their respective fields—as well as over 350 peer-reviewed medical publications. He was also named the #1 most published doctor in Dermatologic Surgery, the premier peer-reviewed medical journal in dermatology. Dr. Goldman is known as the godfather of sclerotherapy.

Additionally, Dr. Goldman has invented and/or helped in the development of many different laser procedures including the Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), the Q-switched alexandrite laser for treating tattoos and pigmented lesions, the Ultrapulse CO2 laser and the laser resurfacing procedure,  the long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser for treating superficial veins and the Endolumenal radiofrequency and endoluminal laser closure procedure to treat varicose veins and holds multiple treatment patents. He also serves as a member of over 30 professional societies and a medical consultant to numerous companies, including Allergan, Galderma, Merz, Valiant, Lumenis Laser Corporation, and many others. Dr. Goldman remains extremely active in medical research and has even helped multiple new dermal fillers get FDA approval.

He is the founder and Medical Director of Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, medical director for West Dermatology, founder of SkinMedica, as well as a volunteer clinical professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and Honorary Professor of Dermatology for the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Dr. Goldman is an associate editor of numerous medical journals including Dermatologic Surgery, Cosmetic Dermatology, and Venous Digest. He also serves as chairman of the Calecim Professional Medical Advisory Board.

He lectures both nationally and internationally on innovative surgical and treatment techniques and is a recipient of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery’s “21st Century Achievement Award,” the 2009 American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) Presidential Award for Outstanding Contribution in Teaching and Research, as well as the 2016 Presidential Citation, from the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery (ASLMS) for “invaluable contribution as an international ambassador and worldwide leader in laser and energy device education.” In 2022 and 2023, Dr. Goldman was named America’s Best Cosmetic Dermatologist by Newsweek, ranking #1 out of 125 of the most renowned cosmetic dermatologists in the U.S. He is also the Director of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) Fellowship Program and has practice/hospital affiliations with Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California.

To learn more or to see Dr. Goldman’s before & after photos, click here.

“Every dermatologist has access to the same products and treatments, but it takes a true artist, with skill and empathy, to create beautiful, natural-looking results.”

Where I Practice

Cosmetic Laser Dermatology

9339 Genesee Avenue
Suite 300
San Diego California 92121

858-943-2113

Learn More

West Dermatology

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