About Me

It is a pleasure to welcome you to my Web page. This is a wonderful way for patients to learn more about their Kaiser Permanente physicians. Thirty-five years ago, I founded the Maxillofacial Surgery Department at the Los Angeles Medical Center. With the support I have received from Kaiser Permanente, it has grown to a department of four physicians in Los Angeles and four more elsewhere in Southern California. Our department strives to provide the latest in surgical care as well as training for physicians from all over the globe. I am currently the regional chief of maxillofacial surgery for Kaiser Permanente and a professor at UCLA.

Biography

I was born in Los Angeles. Although I did all of my training on the East Coast, I was always eager to return to Southern California because of the mild weather and casual lifestyle. I was ecstatic when I was invited to join Kaiser Permanente. In addition to my practice here, I teach at UCLA. I have also written many articles and chapters for medical textbooks, and I am active in international health care. I have lectured on and performed surgery throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

About my practice

Maxillofacial surgery is a medical specialty that deals with the treatment of conditions of the face, mouth, jaw, head, and neck. It is unique in that it requires training in medicine, surgery, and dentistry. Sometimes there is an overlap with other specialties, such as reconstructive surgery, plastic surgery, eye surgery, and certain dental specialties. At Kaiser Permanente, we collaborate with other physicians in these specialties rather than compete with them. This makes for an ideal environment in which to care for each patient's specific needs.

How I thrive

My wife and children are my main priority outside of work. Although the children are grown, we still enjoy cooking, baking, and wine tasting together. We frequently attend Dodgers and Kings games. My wife and I travel abroad each year. I was once more active, but recent orthopedic problems limit me to gardening and golf.