| OUR STORY THE DIFFERENCE MEET OUR DOCTORS MEET OUR STAFF OUR FACILITY THE PROCESS |
Meet Our Staff At Alexander Cosmetic Surgery we are fortunate to have an excellent, caring, and dedicated staff, many of whom have been with the practice for decades. The longevity of our staff’s service is a testament to the commitment to quality and excellence provided by the Alexanders to our patients. 
Upon joining Dr. Alexander's practice, Cathy brought extensive business operations and management experience. She held prestigious positions such as Vice President of Lincoln National Sales Corporation, where she supervised new business submissions and multiple branch offices and assisted 15 sales associates. At Milano Realty she supervised over 20 sales associates. She now has over 15 years experience in the medical field. Her responsibilities include day-to-day business operations, billing, medical records management, insurance, and recruiting. She manages both Alexander Cosmetic Surgery and Alexander Skin Care and has been with the practice since 1996. Cathy has served as a dedicated volunteer for several community programs, including sports and the arts. She was a Board Member for Symphony in the Park, a highly respected nonprofit foundation. Cathy is a third generation Californian, is married, has four children and two grandchildren. Her hobbies include riding her Harley, gardening, and cooking. 
Julie joined Alexander Cosmetic Surgery in 1997, and quickly became an indispensible member of the team. Her primary role is to provide superior patient service by understanding the needs of our patients. Julie has exceptional interpersonal ability. Her energetic and friendly personality, combined with her strong communication skills, allow her to create a successful experience for our patients. Julie is knowledgeable about every procedure offered at Alexander Cosmetic Surgery. She guides our patients through the surgical process, helping arrange pre and post-operative care. Julie holds an A. A., Business Administration and Accounting from Southeast College, Lincoln, Nebraska. She was also educated in management, career counseling and nutrition at the University of Nebraska. Prior to joining Dr. Alexander Julie was the Program and Office Manager at Life Fitness and Weight Management, where she organized and opened a medical clinic. Julie is married with two beautiful daughters and together they enjoy photography, softball, and camping. She volunteers at her children’s school, Girl Scouts of America, and the Three-Day Breast Cancer Walk. “By addressing every question and concern you may have, I will help you become completely comfortable before your procedure. I will work with you to make this an enjoyable and successful experience.” 
Meg joined Dr. Alexander’s practice over fifteen years ago. Prior to this she worked as a Staff Accountant for National Medical. In 1995 Meg joined Alexander Cosmetic Surgery as the Office Manager. As the practice expanded Meg’s role increased, and she is the chief controller for the operations of Alexander Cosmetic Surgery, Alexander Skin Care, and EnergenexTM, an Anti-aging Clinic. She oversees the financial planning, marketing, staff development, budgets and patient care. As the primary liaison between Dr. Alexander and the staff, Meg’s leadership skills,
friendly personality, and genuine care for the practice and staff all contribute to the success of Alexander Cosmetic Surgery. 
Patricia has been a dedicated employee since 2003. She is the first voice a new patient hears, and the person patients look to when questions arise. In 2005 Patricia was promoted to manage the front desk and surgery schedule. Patricia serves as a liaison between our surgeons and our patients. She explains procedures, answers questions, offers guidance, and assists in scheduling surgery for four surgeons. In addition, Patricia prepares preoperative and postoperative instructions and interfaces with patients’ families. Patty is great at giving personalized attention to the details of the entire patient experience in our practice. She is currently enrolled in college part time to earn her Business Administration Degree. Surgery Center Our team of Supervisors, Registered Nurses, and Medical Technicians work seamlessly together to make your surgical procedure as stress free and uneventful as possible. James Koed, our Operating Room Supervisor, has been with Dr. Alexander since 1980! 
Jim Koed began working with Dr. Alexander 30 years ago! Jim was in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. There he completed the Navy Operating Room Technician Program in Oakland, California, becoming a Corpsman. He was transferred to San Diego and served as Operating Room Technician at Balboa Naval Hospital. His years of experience include operating room management, emergency room medicine, and Surgical ICU, including the Code Blue Team in hospital settings. Jim graduated from UCSD in 1991 with a degree in Biology and Biochemistry. Jim is an incredibly hard worker, a jack-of-all-trades, and an efficiency expert. His leadership and efficient Surgical Center management allow him to interact easily with surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, technicians, and patients. He ensures medical care standards are excellent at our Surgical Center, which is certified by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF), so our patients can consistently receive optimum results in a safe environment. His dedication and commitment to our practice and to the wellbeing of our surgery patients is a testimonial to his work ethic and character. Jim and his wife of 35 years, Penny, have three children. Jim has served as a CPR instructor for over twenty years. He has a strong commitment to his faith, his family, and our practice. In his free time he enjoys home repairs and trips to Napa. The Alexanders are like family. -Jim Koed- 
Heidi became naturally health conscious at an early age. She pursued a career in nursing to expand on her knowledge of nutrition and the human body. In 2003, Heidi earned her RNBSN degree from McGill University. Heidi joined Dr. Alexander’s team in 2005. She has an easygoing personality and relates to patients well, providing a candid approach to their care. She is a trained teacher and is responsible for all patient pre-operative instruction. Heidi also oversees post-operative care and recovery after surgical procedures. Heidi is extensively involved in competitive sports and weight training. With over 16 years of professional experience, she is well respected in the fitness community. She received First Place at the 2009 NPC Body Building Bikini competition, which qualified her to compete professionally. She will compete this year in the NPC USA Competition located in Las Vegas. Recently, she and Dr. Alexander have expanded the Anti-aging component of the practice, ENERGENEXTM, and are helping patients achieve fantastic results. Heidi’s fitness and nutrition success has attracted amateur and professional athletes and business executives to seek her advice. Her concepts, knowledge and experience combined with the latest breakthroughs allow her to help clients restore youth and increase longevity. 
Ashley Kothrade is the newest member of the Alexander Cosmetic Surgery and Skin Care staff. Her education includes an Associate in Nursing Degree from Palomar College. Ashley eagerly continues her education while currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Chamberlain College of Nursing. Before joining Alexander Cosmetic Surgery and Alexander Skin Care, Ashley held a nursing position at the highly respected Scripps Memorial La Jolla, where she performed primary nursing care and participated in general post op care with patients. Ashley specialized in surgical, post-operative gastric bypass and post operative care for cosmetic surgery patients. Her concern for patients can be seen as she educates patients on their home care. Ashley demonstrates the skills necessary to assist our patients to an optimal level of health. In addition to her nursing skills, Ashley’s warm communication skills are apparent when working with patients and their family members. Ashley Kothrade is a native San Diegan, she enjoys snowboarding and most recently ran a 5k with her 80 year old grandfather.
Mercy Palomo - Surgical Technician
Prior to joining Alexander Cosmetic Surgery in 2006, Mercy served at Scripps Memorial Hospital where she provided assistance in over 180 surgery cases. A San Diego native, she has a background in retail and customer service, which provides Alexander Cosmetic Surgery patients a level of care that exceeds their expectations. Mercy scrubs with our surgeons during surgery. She is a vital member of our operating room team, which includes surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses. Her pleasant personality and reliable care has been a tremendous asset for our patients. She enjoys guiding our patients through the surgical process and particularly enjoys being there for patients as they transition between the “before” and “after.” Her passion for our patients and love for exceptional medicine is evident by her genuine smile. Alexander Skin Care Our Skin Care technicians are specialists in their field. Working under the direction of our Board Certified Plastic Surgeons they have extensive experience and provide exceptional patient care. 
Joanna Nicholson is a board certified Physician Assistant, specializing in aesthetic skin and laser treatments. Having completed extensive advanced training in all arenas of aesthetics and skin care management, she offers innovative medically proven skin care treatments. After receiving her Bachelor's Degree in Science from San Diego State University, Joanna continued her education and training as a Physician Assistant at the renowned University of Southern California. She received the Ethel Gardener PEO Scholarship Award and was on the Dean’s List during both didactic and clinical phases of training. Joining the prestigious Alexander Cosmetic Surgery practice in 2003, she has worked extensively with both Dr. Alexander Sr. and Dr. Alexander II. She is frequently asked to attend roundtable discussions regarding new products and is often invited to educate other medical professionals. Joanna has extensive experience in all FDA approved fillers including Botox,® and Dysport.® Joanna has practical general dermatology experience and offers a variety of laser treatments such as FotoFacial™ treatments and Laser Hair Removal using the most effective and advanced systems available. Joanna has successfully combined her passion for science and medicine with an exceptional approach to patient care, a quality that has earned the respect and admiration from both our patients and staff. 
LeAnne has over 17 years experience working closely with cosmetic plastic surgeons and dermatologists in the field of medical aesthetics. She completed her training as an aesthetician at Je Boutique in San Diego, and has participated in several specialty courses in acne, acne scarring, photodamage, and numerous peels. She was the west coast educator for a cosmeceutical skin care line from New York for two years. She understands that aesthetic skincare and cosmetic surgery are private and individual and helps patients feel secure with their decisions. LeAnee has developed skin care programs integrating the care of Dr. Alexander and our Physician Assistant, Joanna, to help patients learn how a more youthful appearance can be achieved through current innovations. She works closely with Alexander Cosmetic Surgery patients providing pre-operative and post-operative skin care treatments. Leanne’s knowledge of skin care has advanced with certifications in both medical strength products and chemical peels. She continues to broaden her knowledge with cutting edge skin care allowing Alexander Cosmetic Surgery and Alexander Skin Care to provide our patients with an assortment of effective, versatile and personalized treatments. 
Cheryl’s customer service and patient care ensures Alexander Cosmetic Surgery patients and our medical spa patients have peace of mind knowing they will be well cared for. Her knowledge of the treatments we offer allows her to provide patients answers to questions and direction regarding our medically supervised skin care programs. Cheryle got her Associates Degree in Health & Physical Education Studies, and is now working towards her bachelors degree in Kinesiology in Health Science. She assists with project management and marketing Alexander Skin Care and coordinates our marketing promotions and monthly open-house events. Cheryl welcomes all our clients with her beautiful smile and warm personality, and meets their needs in an efficient and friendly manner. Cheryl provides discreet and private care and is committed to providing our patients the most elegant experience possible. |