Staff
At W Dermatology, our focus is to treat patients with skin disease effectively. We strive to ensure that patients feel cared for from the moment they call for an appointment until their skin concerns are resolved. W Dermatology is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care while incorporating the newest technology and the latest dermatologic research. Our staff is committed to delivering professional, knowledgeable, and comprehensive service to each person who enters our doors. Whether your visit concerns include treatment of skin cancer, psoriasis, acne, or cosmetic dermatology, we will make every effort to provide you with the most comprehensive care available.
Physicians
Dr. James Wu
MD, MSc, FAAD, FAACS - Dermatologist
Dr. James Wu
MD, MSc, FAAD, FAACS - Dermatologist
Before specializing in dermatology, Dr. Wu completed his preliminary medicine year at UCLA–Olive View and earned his Medical Doctorate from Chicago Medical School, where he was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society — a distinction reserved for the top tier of medical students nationally. Throughout his training, he was the recipient of numerous awards and scholarships in recognition of his academic and clinical achievement. His contributions to the field extend beyond the exam room: he has authored both magazine and peer-reviewed scientific articles and has presented his work at the prestigious annual American Academy of Dermatology meeting. He previously served on staff at St. Mary's Hospital, where he lectured and mentored internal medicine residents.
Whether providing medical, surgical, or cosmetic care, Dr. Wu is committed to the highest standard of excellence, integrating cutting-edge technology and the latest dermatologic research into every treatment protocol. His mission is simple: to deliver the most comprehensive, personalized care available, empowering every patient to achieve healthier, more radiant skin.
Dr. Young Kwak
MD, FAAD, FCMS - Dermatologist
Dr. Young Kwak
MD, FAAD, FCMS - Dermatologist
- Skin Cancer Screenings
- Biopsies
- Mohs Micrographic Surgery
- Lesion Removal and Excision
- Scar treatment
An Atlanta, GA native, Dr. Kwak is one of three sons of South Korean immigrants who arrived in the United States in the 1970s. He has come to us through Georgia, Alabama, Texas, and Southern California. His education involves the University of Georgia, Medical College of Georgia, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and Houston Methodist Hospital. He also underwent additional training experiences at UCSD and UCSF. Dr. Kwak completed Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Reconstructive training at Houston Methodist Hospital, where he trained under Dr. Leonard H. Goldberg and Dr. Arash Kimyai-Asadi.
Dr. Kwak’s care philosophy is to maintain a positive and patient-centered approach, emphasizing high-quality care, empathy, and understanding. It is essential for patients to have a smooth, comfortable experience during procedures, and to understand that he would treat his own family in the same manner. In fact, he has cared for and performed procedures on his father, brother, and extended family in the past.
He also remains involved in teaching medical students and physicians, publishing medical journal articles, and has participated in several long-term research projects, co-authored multiple articles, and contributed to medical textbook chapters.
Outside of the office, Dr. Kwak enjoys a busy and full family life with a wonderful, supportive wife and 2 amazing young children. He also finds time for hobbies and interests that include rock climbing, fishing, working on cars, ethnic foods, building computers and 3d printing. Being from a military family, he values a strong work ethic, integrity, self-reliance, and loving his fellow brothers and sisters in this world.
Dr. Merrick Brodsky
MD, FAAD, FACMS, FASDS – Dermatologist
Dr. Merrick Brodsky
MD, FAAD, FACMS, FASDS – Dermatologist
Dr. Brodsky’s academic journey began at the University of California, Irvine, where he earned degrees in biological sciences and anthropology. During his time at UCI, he excelled both academically and athletically, playing collegiate rugby and earning honors as a Collegiate All-American Sevens Rugby player. He continued his medical education at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, where he was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society.
Dr. Brodsky completed his dermatology residency at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, where he developed a passion for dermatologic surgery. He went on to complete two highly esteemed surgical fellowships. At The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and The James Cancer Hospital, he trained in Mohs micrographic surgery, dermatologic oncology, and facial reconstructive surgery. His multidisciplinary training involved collaboration with experts in various medical fields, allowing him to master complex procedures, including advanced facial reconstructive surgery.
Further honing his skills, Dr. Brodsky trained under Dr. Cameron Chesnut at Clinic 5C and Chesnut Institute of Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery. This fellowship provided comprehensive training in cosmetic and reconstructive surgical techniques, including brow lifts, blepharoplasty, face and neck lifts, lip lifts, facial fat transfer, laser surgery, hair transplantation, scar revision, and injectable treatments. Additionally, he gained expertise in regenerative medicine techniques such as platelet-rich plasma, platelet-rich fibrin, and nanofat transfer.
After completing his training, Dr. Brodsky practiced dermatologic surgery in Columbus, Ohio before moving back to Southern California in 2024. He has served as faculty at multiple institutions, including The Ohio State University Medical Center, The James Cancer Hospital, Dayton Skin Care and Cancer Center, and Laser Skin Care Center, where he performed Mohs micrographic and reconstructive surgery and educated resident and fellow physicians. He also continues to contribute to Clinic 5C and Chesnut Institute of Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery, performing facial cosmetic surgeries and mentoring cosmetic surgery fellows.
Dr. Brodsky is a recognized speaker at national medical conferences and has made significant contributions to medical literature through his research and publications in medical journals and textbooks.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Dr. Brodsky enjoys mountain biking, skiing, surfing, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with his wife, family, and friends.
Dr. Saeed Jaffer
MD – Dermatologist
Dr. Saeed Jaffer
MD – Dermatologist
Dr. Jaffer focuses on helping patients manage a comprehensive range of skin conditions, with particular expertise in skin cancer care. His areas of focus include warts, nail infections, and excision of benign skin lesions, and he has significant experience treating malignancies of the skin. His broader practice also addresses chronic inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, as well as acute skin concerns. His treatment approach combines precise diagnostics with a range of therapeutic techniques, including Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer removal, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and biopsy and excision procedures.
Prior to joining W Dermatology, Dr. Jaffer built his practice in Covina, California, where he cared for patients across the San Gabriel Valley for over 25 years. He is affiliated with Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center and City of Hope Helford Clinical Research Hospital, reflecting his continued connection to leading regional centers for patient care and cancer research.
Patients consistently describe Dr. Jaffer as thorough, attentive, and skilled — a clinician who takes the time to explain conditions and treatment options clearly and who is especially valued for his gentle, precise approach to surgical procedures like Mohs surgery.
Dr. Jaffer speaks Hindi, in addition to English and Spanish, allowing him to serve patients across diverse backgrounds.
Dr. Patricia Brotman
MD – Dermatologist
Dr. Patricia Brotman
MD – Dermatologist
Dr. Brotman specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of skin conditions, from common concerns like acne, eczema, dry skin, and dermatitis to more complex issues such as psoriasis, inflamed seborrheic keratosis, and actinic keratosis. Her surgical and procedural skills include Mohs micrographic surgery, excision, cryotherapy for lesions and warts, and laser therapy — giving her patients a full spectrum of options for both medical and cosmetic dermatologic care.
Prior to joining W Dermatology, Dr. Brotman built her practice caring for patients in Chino Hills and Corona, California, and is affiliated with Corona Regional Medical Center. Patients frequently highlight her thoroughness and honesty — noting that she takes the time to address the underlying issue rather than just the immediate concern, and is direct with patients about what to expect from treatment and healing.
Dr. Brotman is fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing her to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population across her community.
Nurse Practitioners & Physician Assistants
Kelly Slater-DeGree
RN, BSN, FNP-BC - Nurse Practioner
Kelly Slater-DeGree
RN, BSN, FNP-BC - Nurse Practioner
- Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema, Rosacea
- Skin Cancer Detection/Monitoring
- Cosmetic Laser Surgery
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
- Fillers
- Botox
Esmeralda Gil
PA-C, MSPAS - Physician Assistant
Esmeralda Gil
PA-C, MSPAS - Physician Assistant
Laser & Radiotherapy Center
Alysha Roddy
Radiation Therapist
Alysha Roddy
Radiation Therapist
Alexandra Hough
Radiation Therapist
Alexandra Hough
Radiation Therapist
She completed one of her many clinical internships at UCI Medical Center - ranked as one of America’s “Best Cancer Hospitals”. As a summa cum laude graduate from National University in 2022, Alex brings both technical expertise and compassionate care to every patient encounter.
In addition to her work in dermatologic oncology, Alex also serves at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, where she provides radiation therapy treatments to patients facing a wide range of diseases, including brain, bone, and breast cancers. Her dual experience allows her to blend precision and empathy in every setting, while staying up to date on the latest research and technology in the oncology space.
Alex believes that successful cancer care extends beyond technology; it’s built on trust, communication, and genuine human connection. She values the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with her patients and guiding them through each step of their treatment journey. Her approach centers on creating a calm, supportive environment where patients feel heard, informed, and cared for.
Alex is proud to be a part of the team at W Dermatology.
Bridget Zinger
RN - Laser Center Nurse
Bridget Zinger
RN - Laser Center Nurse
Bridget joined the Ulmer and Wu Dermatology staff in February 2006 and brought with her 21 years of nursing experience. She lives in Cypress with her husband Ted, and has three sons.
Bridget is an integral part of our team and administers the following treatments in our Laser Center:
- Patient Consultations
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT™)
- Intense Pulse Light (IPL™)
- Laser Hair Removal
- Superficial Facial Peels
- Acne Surgery
- Clear100XL™
- BOTOX, Dysport
- Sculptra
- Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane
- Fractionated CO2 Resurfacing
- Sclerotherapy
- Varilite
Cosmetic Treatments
Valerie Enciso
Esthetician
Valerie Enciso
Esthetician
Valerie has been a long-time patient of W Dermatology—over 15 years—which makes joining the team especially meaningful to her. Her personal skincare journey began during her time as a professional cheerleader for both the NBA and NFL, where maintaining healthy, radiant skin was essential under the spotlight. That experience inspired her to pursue a career dedicated to helping others achieve confidence through healthy skin.
Before joining W Dermatology, Valerie gained extensive hands-on experience working at several medical spas across Newport Beach and Los Angeles, where she focused her techniques in both corrective and maintenance skincare. She treats a variety of skin concerns including acne, acne scarring, and hyperpigmentation, and offers advanced treatments such as dermaplaning, acne extractions, chemical peels, light therapy, and customized facial masks.
Valerie takes pride in caring for her patients’ skin with the same dedication she gives her own. She is passionate about educating patients, helping them build effective skincare routines, and celebrating their progress every step of the way.
Valerie is thrilled to be part of the W Dermatology team and to continue serving patients with compassion, expertise, and genuine care.
Area of Interest
- Acne and Acne Scarring
- Hyperpigmentation
- Dermaplaning
- Chemical Peels
- Light Therapy
- Customized Facial Treatments
