Author Archives: the local dish

DermFx

DermFx

ERIN ALONSO, MSN, FNP

DermFxErin is committed to providing exceptional patient care, which is what led her to pursue a career in the aesthetic industry. While she is dedicated to helping her patients look their best, she understands that feeling one’s best is equally important. Erin’s approach to patient care is holistic and personalized; she takes the time to get to know each patient individually and approaches everything she does with a deep sense of care and passion.

In addition to her work in aesthetics, Erin is also a passionate philanthropist. She has a particular affinity for an orphanage in Mexicali and has dedicated herself to improving the lives of the children who live there. To support this cause, she founded The Forgotten Foundation, an organization that raises funds through events and the sale of items in her stores. Remarkably, 100% of the proceeds from these sales go directly to benefit the children at the orphanage.

DermFx, being one of the oldest and most comprehensive aesthetic clinics, is a great start for anyone looking to accent their beauty. Experience is the key to their continued success. As pioneers of the “medispa era,” they have treated close to a hundred thousand patients from all walks of life. DermFx houses over 25 state-of-the-art light and laser-based systems, the most extensive in California.

Awards:

  • One of Allergan’s top 25 accounts
  • Diamond Crystal Practice for CoolSculpting Elite — The highest level a practice can reach
  • Orange County Best Laser Hair Removal
  • 5-Stars on Yelp and Google

DermFx is overseen by Todd Miller, MD. Dr. Miller is an accomplished and highly trained head and neck surgeon who specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

Featured Provider:
Erin Alonso is a Family Nurse Practitioner with 25 years of experience in aesthetic medicine and non-surgical laser treatments. Her passion is utilizing multiple modalities to help patients achieve their best look using fillers, neurotoxins, lasers, radio frequency, ultrasound, and more. She is revered as a expert in the aesthetics industry with a history of training the world’s top-tier doctors for Allergan, Galderma, Merz, Revance, Suneva, and more.

FREE Consultations for Your Beauty Needs
Complimentary consultations are always available at DermFx, and with operating hours 7 days a week, we can easily accommodate even the busiest of schedules. The staff is dedicated to exceeding your expectations and helping you achieve your best look. A key component of their approach is a commitment to education, ensuring a collaborative effort in fulfilling your beauty needs. Schedule your free consultation today!

DermFx
134184 Pacific Coast Hwy,
Dana Point
949.487.5180
DermFX.com

DermFx

Dr. Nhu Q. Tran Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Nhu Q. Tran Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Nhu Q. Tran Pediatric DentistryDr. Nhu Q. Tran has been taking care of infants, children, and young adults in her San Clemente pediatric dental practice for almost 20 years. Dr. Tran enjoys establishing lifelong relationships with her patients and their families. Her patients come from nearby neighborhoods and cities, and some come back to her practice even after they have moved away, like from Tustin and Temecula, or even states like Hawaii and Texas. Moreover, Dr. Tran is now excited to be seeing a second generation of patients in her practice, her patients’ children!

Dr. Tran enjoys treating a wide age range of patients who visit her pediatric dental practice. As a pediatric dental specialist, she sees patients for the first time at 1 year old. She has fun tickling the teeth of infants and toddlers who visit her for their first check up and cleaning. She also takes pride and care guiding a fearful child or teenager through a treatment and helping them overcome their dental fears. And because Dr. Tran is one of a very few pediatric dentist that has full time dental hygienists in her practice, she is able to continue providing optimal dental care to her older patients who want to continue seeing her into their late teens. So, whether a child is excited to have their teeth “counted and brushed” or they are nervous about seeing the “tickle toothbrush” or “Mr. Slurpy”, Dr. Tran and her team work to provide every patient with a fun and educational experience that they enjoy and look forward to each and every time.

A native of Southern California, Dr. Tran went to UC Berkeley for her undergraduate education, then relocated to the Midwest and attended Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry in Cleveland, Ohio. Having graduated among the top of her class, she became a recipient of the Pierre Fauchard Scholarship, and earned a membership into the National Dental Honor Society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon. Following dental school, Dr. Tran returned to Southern California to pursue two years of additional post-doctorate training in pediatric dentistry, at the University of Southern California. After receiving her Advanced Pediatric Dental Certificate from USC, Dr. Tran pursued further advancement in her specialty by achieving the status of Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Aside from taking care of her private patients, Dr. Tran has given back to her Trojan roots by being a part of the USC Advanced Pediatric Dentistry Faculty since 2006.

Whether you see Dr. Tran in the office or on the baseball field rooting on her boys, be sure to say hello! And whether your child is one or 16, excited or nervous, healthy or has special health care needs, Dr. Tran and her team are trained and ready to provide the best care for your children.

Dr. Nhu Q. Tran Pediatric Dentistry
1171 Puerta del Sol, Suite A
San Clemente
949.481.5437 (KIDS)
SCKidsDentist.com

Dr. Nhu Q. Tran Pediatric Dentistry

Elite Vein Institute

Elite Vein Institute

ANNE LUHAN, MD, FACS, ABVLM, RPHS, CWSP

Elite Vein InstituteTake care of your leg health today!
People suffering from the harmful effects, discomfort and insightfulness of spider and varicose veins have discovered extraordinary results at Dr. Luhan’s Elite Vein Institute.

Do you have unsightly spider veins?
Spider veins are small, bluish veins seen on various areas of the legs and occasionally the face. They can resemble a bruise in appearance. They can be very unsightly and can cause self-consciousness. After careful treatment, Dr. Luhan’s patients are often happily wearing shorts again.

Do you experience discomfort, ankle swelling, heavy legs or varicose veins?
If so, you may be one of 80 million Americans who are plagued with varicose veins and may not even realize you have them. Many who have experienced varicose veins believe they are simply a cosmetic issue that is more of a nuisance than a genuine medical concern. The fact is that varicose veins are a massively underdiagnosed and undertreated problem that can progress into a more serious medical condition, if not addressed properly. Dr. Luhan is making it her mission to educate patients and the community about varicose veins.

Dr. Luhan’s practice offers a comprehensive approach correcting multiple causes of vein disorders and helps restore the look and health of every patient’s leg, whether the issue is cosmetic or healthrelated.

Procedures can be performed without invasive anesthesia and require little down time. Procedures are often covered by Medicare and other insurance companies. As a faculty member of national phlebology organizations, Dr. Luhan is always at the forefront of the latest technologies in the treatment of vein problems. For many patients, receiving treatment is life-altering, enabling them to now lead active, productive lives that were once not possible.

Dr. Anne Luhan is certified by the American Board of General Surgery, the American Board of Surgical Critical Care, the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and the American Board of Woundcare Management. Having passed these prestigious boards shows full commitment to the treatment of venous disease. With these credentials and expertise, it’s no wonder that Dr. Luhan’s patients put their full trust in her hands.

Elite Vein Institute
Los Altos Medical Plaza
26691 Plaza, Ste. 140
Mission Viejo
949.388.4800
EliteVeinInstitute.com

Elite Vein Institute

Frank Mogavero, DDS

Frank Mogavero, DDS

ORTHODONTICS • FACIAL ORTHOPEDICS

Frank Mogavero, DDSMeet Dr. Frank Mogavero, a distinguished orthodontist with over 33 years of experience serving the San Clemente community. Recognized throughout South County as the go-to orthodontist for local Olympians and athletes, Dr. Mogavero says that despite his success, family always comes first. He’s happiest when he’s just Dad to the three most important people in his life, Ryder, Cambria, and Charlotte, who were featured alongside their Siberian Husky, Atlas, on the July cover (picutred below). Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Mogavero’s life centers around his children, active participation in the youth ministry at Shoreline Church, and coaching his son Ryder’s soccer team.

Dr. Frank Mogavero’s journey in the field commenced at the Baylor School of Dentistry, following his completion of an undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering at UCLA. Throughout the years, he also served as a clinical professor for post-doctorate residents in the Department of Orthodontics at USC, displaying an enduring passion for staying updated on the latest and most advanced treatments in the field.

This enthusiasm for innovation has positioned him as an early adopter of cutting-edge treatments over the past three decades. Today, he stands as one of the leading providers of InBrace, a distinctive treatment method that affixes behind the teeth and employs a digitally designed smart wire for tooth movement. “It’s the quickest treatment I’ve ever witnessed,” he attests. “People appreciate it not only for its concealment, but because it’s always active. That’s what makes it so effective.”

Yet, modern orthodontics isn’t solely about teeth. In recent years, emerging treatments have focused on enhancing a patient’s airway for improved breathing. “Our goal is to create space,” he explains. Aligning teeth and jaws opens up airway passages, enhancing airflow. This expanded space can facilitate better tongue positioning and prevent the tongue from falling back into the throat during sleep, a potential cause of airway obstruction and related breathing issues. Airway concerns have become one of the primary reasons parents seek their child’s first orthodontic consultation at his office.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) advises that children have their initial orthodontic assessment by age 7. Even if tooth alignment isn’t an immediate concern, Dr. Mogavero can assess a child’s airway and provide treatment for breathing or snoring problems.

Eager to begin your orthodontic journey? Call today at 949.373.3737 or request an appointment at syncyoursmile.com. To learn more about InBrace, visit inbrace.me.

Frank Mogavero, DDS
1031 Avenida Pico, Suite 101
San Clemente
949.373.3737
SyncYourSmile.com
MyINBRACEdoc.com
Facebook: Mogavero Orthodontics
Instagram: @drfrankm
Twitter: @drfrankm

Frank Mogavero, DDS

Monarch Veterinary Hospital

Monarch Veterinary Hospital

GLENN CRAFT DVM, KELLY ALCALA DVM, AND KRISTIN ROSS DVM

Monarch Veterinary HospitalMonarch Veterinary Hospital, located at Clubhouse Plaza on Niguel Road, is celebrating 21 years of dedicated service. This coastal community holds a deep affection for their pets, with numerous scenic spots for walks at Salt Creek, the Strands, Dana Point Harbor, and various parks within the city. MVH plays a vital role in ensuring these pets stay healthy and active. The MVH team has earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence in pet healthcare, fostering strong and trusting relationships with clients and their beloved animals. Many pets genuinely relish their visits to Monarch Veterinary Hospital where they feel cared for and comfortable.

In 2019, a significant remodel and expansion project effectively doubled the facility’s size, guaranteeing its continued growth and commitment to its practice culture in the years ahead. The hospital now boasts four generously- sized examination rooms, an expansive front lobby, and a fully-equipped bathing suite. While grooming is not provided, the hospital offers bathing services, closely supervised by the technical staff.

Founded by Dr. Glenn Craft and his wife, Lisa, who returned to California in 2002 after four years of service with Christian Veterinary Mission in Thailand, MVH embodies a unique blend of compassionate, personalized care and cutting-edge veterinary medicine. Their aim is to exceed client expectations with every interaction. The hospital provides a comprehensive range of veterinary services, including wellness checks, immunizations, general surgery, dental care, therapeutic laser treatments, bathing, and ultrasound, along with digital radiography and access to STAT radiology consultations.

Dr. Kelly Alcala, a part-time Associate with a reputation for highly competent and compassionate care, has been an integral part of the MVH team since 2015, having worked parttime at the practice for nine years prior. Dr. Kristin Ross, who recently joined as an Associate, has quickly become a valuable addition to the growing hospital. The doctors have established strong relationships with carefully selected specialists in South Orange County, and the hospital also offers mobile services by appointment, including cardiology with Dr. Fred Brewer and specialty surgical procedures with mobile surgeon Dr. Zachary Smith, who also provides mobile CT-scanning services. Expert ultrasound services are available by appointment.

MVH consistently receives glowing reviews, a testament to its commitment to delivering high-quality care with integrity. The staff takes pride in offering exceptional customer service and treats both pets and their owners with warmth, making everyone feel like a valued part of the MVH family.

Monarch Veterinary Hospital
31271 Niguel Road, Suite E
Laguna Niguel
949.443.1466
MonarchVet.com

Monarch Veterinary Hospital

Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery

Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery

ANNE MARIE MCNEILL, FAAD, MD, PHD

Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic SurgeryThe newest Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery location in San Juan Capistrano is an exciting addition to South County. This expansion brings top-tier medical and cosmetic dermatology care closer to its residents. The esteemed team of boardcertified experts at NBDPS travel between both their locations to provide comprehensive and specialized care for various skin needs. NBDPS has a wide range of complex cosmetic treatments from total body sculpting with Coolsculpting and truSculpt flex, skin tightening with Ultherapy and Ellacor, skin resurfacing with fractionated CO2 and other state of the art lasers and cosmetic injectables.

Anne Marie McNeill M.D., Ph.D., FAAD
Founder and President

Dr. McNeill’s extensive experience in procedural dermatology, particularly in laser treatments, injectables, and Mohs surgery, establishes her as a leading authority in the field. Her special focus on vulvar dermatology further highlights her expertise.

Christopher Ellstrom M.D.
Dr. Ellstrom’s proficiency in both medical and cosmetic plastic surgery, with a specialization in facial/neck plastic surgery, makes him a valuable asset to the team. In addition, his expertise in Mohs skin cancer closures, reconstructions, and excisions further enhances the range of services offered.

Robin Lewallen M.D., FAAD
Dr. Lewallen’s specialization in complex medical dermatology cases and mastery of Mohs surgery ensures that patients receive top-notch care, particularly for intricate skin conditions. Her expertise is a valuable addition to the San Juan Capistrano location.

Larisa Lehmer M.D., FAAD
Dr. Lehmer’s unique approach, which bridges medical and cosmetic dermatology, provides a well-rounded perspective on skin health. Her excellence in laser treatments for conditions like rosacea and pigmentation, as well as her focus on overall skin rejuvenation, is sure to benefit patients. Additionally, her emphasis on the impact of nutrition on skin health demonstrates a holistic approach to dermatology.

Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery
27512 Calle Arroyo
San Juan Capistrano
949.706.7886
newportbeachdps.com

Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery

Pacific Coast Podiatry

Pacific Coast Podiatry

DR. CLAYTON JOHNSEN

Pacific Coast PodiatryDr. Clayton Johnsen’s journey in podiatric medicine began with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from BYU in 2003. He furthered his education at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, earning his Doctorate in 2007. Following this, Dr. Johnsen completed an extensive 3-year surgical residency at Silver Lake Medical Center/Baja Project in Southern California. Driven by his passion for sports medicine, he honed his expertise at the esteemed PRO Sports Club in Bellevue, Washington for a notable 3-year period. In 2013, he returned to Southern California with a goal in mind — to establish his own practice.

In 2016, Dr. Johnsen turned this aspiration into reality by founding Pacific Coast Podiatry. His primary objective was to offer top-notch, accessible healthcare to the residents of the Inland Empire, starting with his flagship office in San Bernardino. As the practice flourished, he expanded his reach by opening a second office in his hometown of San Clemente on Camino de los Mares. To further enhance the services offered, Dr. Erin Vogtman, D.P.M. from Des Moines University, joined Pacific Coast Podiatry in 2019.

Setting them apart in the podiatry field, Dr. Johnsen and his team go the extra mile by providing house call care to homebound Medicare patients across a substantial portion of Orange and Riverside County.

Pacific Coast Podiatry caters to a wide range of foot-related concerns, including diabetic foot care and footwear, plantar fasciitis, custom orthotics, ingrown and fungal nails, as well as plantar warts.

In addition to his medical expertise, Dr. Johnsen is proficient in Spanish, Visayan, and Waray-Waray. Outside the office, he finds joy in activities like surfing, basketball, ultimate frisbee, mountain biking, and exploring new destinations. Dr. Johnsen also dedicates his time to serving in his church and cherishing moments with his wife and young children.

Pacific Coast Podiatry accepts straight Medicare insurance, along with various PPO plans, and welcomes most hospice patients with Medicare coverage, alleviating the concern of out-of-pocket expenses. The friendly office staff is keen to highlight that Medicare covers routine podiatry appointments every 61 days. Cash prices for services begin at $80. For more detailed information and to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Johnsen, reach out to Pacific Coast Podiatry today.

Pacific Coast Podiatry
657 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 133
San Clemente
949.503.1092
PacificCoastPodiatry.net

Pacific Coast Podiatry

R. Tyler Johnson Chiropractic

R. Tyler Johnson Chiropractic

TYLER JOHNSON, DC, CCSP

R. Tyler Johnson ChiropracticIn 2023, Dr. Tyler Johnson commemorated his 16th year of unwavering service to the San Clemente community by opening a new location in the Via Pico Plaza. “I have had the great honor of working alongside two other amazing doctors at my previous location. For some time I have had a strong desire to offer more to my patients, especially to my sports medicine patients. Nothing brings me more satisfaction than helping my patients recover from injury, return to the things they love, and reach their goals. This new facility is tailormade for doing just that.”

While his clinical proficiency empowers him to adeptly address injuries, his new office provides various treatments that foster quicker recovery. In addition to sports and family chiropractic services, that remain the bedrock of his care, Dr. Johnson will also offer red light therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, Vibro- Acoustic therapy, spinal decompression, shockwave therapy and PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic field) therapy.

Dr. Johnson is actively engaged with his patients to understand their objectives, tailoring care plans to help them attain those goals.

“Helping people get out of pain and back to doing the things they love to do, or need to do, is only part of the job. As much as I would like to say it isn’t so, there is a small percentage of people who I may not be able to help, but treating people fairly is something I feel I should accomplish with every single patient,” Dr. Johnson emphasizes.

As an honors graduate of the Southern California University of Health Sciences, Dr. Johnson’s personal experience with sports- related injuries as a college athlete inspired him to bring that same caliber of knowledge and expertise to his own community. San Clemente’s dynamic lifestyle and inviting climate create an ideal backdrop for his Sports and Family Practice. This allows him to collaborate with athletes at various levels while maintaining a close connection with families. Dr. Johnson’s practice embraces a diverse clientele, ranging from seasoned professionals to weekend enthusiasts, and spanning from infants to grandparents. His blend of expertise, skill, and empathy firmly establishes him as a trusted choice for all chiropractic needs.

R. Tyler Johnson Chiropractic
83 Via Pico Plaza
San Clemente
949.436.6440
ChiroSC.com

R. Tyler Johnson Chiropractic

Riviera Laser Studios

Riviera Laser Studios

JEANNINE KOFFORD-JENKINS, MD

Riviera Laser StudiosDr. Jeannine Kofford-Jenkins is excited and honored to be chosen as one of this year’s Top Docs. Dr. Jeannine is the founder and owner of Riviera Laser Studios in Dana Point. She has been in practice in Dana Point for 22 years, specializing in nonsurgical facial aesthetics. Dr. Jeannine’s office is located on the southwest corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Golden Lantern. It is a beautiful new office with modern, spacious, and airy treatment rooms which are private and socially distanced. Patients are treated to complimentary beverages or coffee and a personalized consultation utilizing imaging with office manager Cher and Dr. Jeannine.

Patients are put at ease with Dr. Jeannine’s easygoing manner and high experience level. She is a three time winner of the prestigious Aesthetic Awards from The Aesthetic Show held annually in Las Vegas. In 2013, she was awarded Best Nonsurgical, in 2014, Best Fill, and in 2019, Best Nonsurgical Patient Enhancement. She also holds many industry awards such as the Bellafill Diamond and Galderma Presidential Champion Awards for being a high volume provider.

Dr. Jeannine has shared her expertise with many other providers over the years, helping other doctors and nurses to learn and master the art and science of nonsurgical aesthetics. She has served as a national trainer and speaker since 2008. She has hosted countless training seminars for products Bellafill,® Sculptra,® Restylane® line, Dysport® and Revanesse Versa.™ Other providers have felt comfortable referring her some patients who have had complications. Dr. Jeannine does her best to help patients to overcome and look their best.

Dr. Jeannine’s passion is in long lasting biostimulants Bellafill® and Sculptra,® as well as ablative laser for facial wrinkle and scar revision. Biostimulants differ from traditional fillers in that they stimulated your own Type I collagen. As patients age, they lose 1% of their dermal collagen per year. Biostimulatory fillers also require a higher level of expertise to inject properly because they last much longer than traditional fillers. Rewards are also high because your beautiful look is maintained long term. In this arena, experience level definitely matters.

Riviera Laser Studios
34189 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste. 201
Dana Point
949.370.3177
RivieraLaserStudio.net
Follow on Instagram @drjeanninekoffordfaceartist

Riviera Laser Studios

San Clemente Oral & Facial Surgery

San Clemente Oral & Facial Surgery

San Clemente Oral & Facial SurgeryCommitment To You
Oral and facial surgery can cause many patients to feel apprehensive and nervous about their treatment, especially if this is the first surgery they will undergo. San Clemente Oral & Facial Surgery, board-certified oral surgeon, Dr. Brady Nielsen, and his experienced team are aware of the stress surgery can cause. They make it a top priority to provide expert, comfortable surgery in a pain-free and relaxed setting. That is the commitment to you—and one upheld every day.

Excellence With Compassion
Dr. Nielsen achieved board certification through the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and has years of experience in the full scope of oral and facial surgery, including placing thousands of dental implants. He has lectured at both local and national meetings and has several publications in the oral surgery literature focusing on implant dentistry. Dr. Nielsen is also on staff at Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo where he is able to perform jaw reconstruction and trauma surgeries. He and his team are dedicated to surgical excellence and take a compassionate and gentle approach to your care. With custom anesthesia services and a calming office atmosphere, you’ll experience the best surgical care has to offer.

High-Tech, Innovative Care
The surgical facility is equipped with the newest CBCT imaging and digital technologies to virtually plan surgical procedures. The practice also leverages advanced healing techniques to expedite patient recovery after surgery. The surgical suites are at the highest standard of safety and sanitization, along with full office-based anesthesia capabilities, including general anesthesia. All technology used is to ensure delivery of the most innovative surgical solutions and the most efficient, comfortable, and predictable care for you.

A Heart For The Community
Community involvement is a central part of the mission to serve the San Clemente area. San Clemente Oral & Facial Surgery offers Community involvement is a central part of the mission to serve the San Clemente area. San Clemente Oral & Facial Surgery offers CPR classes and other health-related courses to increase public knowledge and overall wellness. Dr. Nielsen and his team are also actively involved with local schools and support small businesses. They truly have a heart for the community and love giving back.

Put your care in the hands of the expert and contact Dr. Nielsen in San Clemente for a personalized consultation today.

San Clemente Oral & Facial Surgery
675 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 303
San Clemente
949.403.6602
SanClementeSurgery.com

San Clemente Oral & Facial Surgery