Staff

Brandon McDuffie, PA-C

Brandon treats general dermatology patients for acne, eczema and other common skin disorders. He also performs skin evaluations that identify the potential for, or presence of, skin cancer.

As a Physician Assistant, Brandon is trained in the diverse aspects of dermatology, including physical exams, treatment plans, and prescription medications. Brandon completed his P.A. training and schooling at Long Island University. He then spent 3 years working with a dermatology practice in Boynton Beach, Florida before relocating to the Pacific Northwest.

Brandon notes that most of the patients he sees are concerned about aging and sun-damaged skin, and want to prevent skin cancer. He is particularly dedicated to patient education, with a focus on teaching patients how to be committed to both skin health and skin protection. "I enjoy interacting with our patients and showing them how to care for their skin."

Jessica King, PA-C

Jessica King is a Physician Assistant on our staff who works with our dermatology patients. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Connecticut and spent the next 2-1/2 years as a researcher at the Yale Medical School. Jessica then relocated to Washington, where she attended the University of Washington, graduating as a Physician’s Assistant. Subsequently, she worked at St. Clare Hospital, where she served in the department of emergency medicine for 10 years.

About her work, she says: "I’m happy to be here in Dr. Michalak’s practice, where I can focus on helping patients achieve better skin and see how gratifying it is for them to attain it. We have the nicest patients here and Dermatology is a fascinating specialty – a challenging, stimulating area of medicine. I’m treating and educating patients who are dealing with acne or other skin conditions, and doing injectable filler treatments (such as Juvederm and Botox) that smooth out lines and wrinkles."

Jessica also provides full skin exams to identify and, when necessary, biopsy potential skin cancers. Skin health education is an integral part of her consultations with patients, ensuring that patients are using and correctly apply the right sunscreens and taking necessary preventive measures to protect their skin from sun damage.

The goal is to combine the best products and treatments with knowledge, empowering each patient to take charge of their skin health. "It’s exciting – for my patients and for me - to see the significant improvements that can be made as a result of the right treatment plan coupled with good patient education. I feel fortunate to be here, working for an excellent doctor and alongside a team of highly qualified professionals who are dedicated to what we do."

Suzi Miner, PA-C

Suzi, our physician assistant, meets with patients before and after surgery, performs skin cancer and skin mapping screenings, biopsies and performs cosmetic skin care and laser treatments like Botox, injectable fillers, and Photorejuvenation.

She received her B.S. degree in Biochemistry and Cell Biology from the University of California, San Diego, became a certified EMT, and then completed her 3-year P.A. training and schooling at USC in Los Angeles, specializing in family medicine. Suzi has worked in a range of clinical environments including a medical spa. Prior to coming to our practice, she spent six years providing medical aesthetic dermatology and laser treatments.

“I have extensive training in the use of lasers," she says "including Fraxel, Alexandrite, Vbeam, Ulthera, and Thermage. Lasers are used to tighten skin, improve skin tone around the chin, jaw, neck and stomach areas, and treat premature signs of aging that result from overexposure to the sun, including age spots, wrinkling and uneven skin tone. Suzi understands why patients are discerning about their appearance goals. She says,  “I go out of my way to make sure my patients get the most current and accurate information and the best medical care. I truly enjoy the work I do."

Leslie Carney, Medical Aesthetician

Leslie is a Licensed Medical Aesthetician with 30 years of patient care experience. She provides skin care consultations and evaluations before selecting an effective product or treatment regimen to address many skin conditions.

She offers specialized chemical peels, medical grade facials, and skin care products that enhance surgical outcomes. “We use pharmaceutical-grade skin care products and give our patients the information they need to take care of their skin, she says. 

Leslie also offers acne care and management for patients of all ages, offering a customized plan with special peels, oral or topical medication, and microdermabrasion. “My acne patients are wonderful to work with and highly motivated to do all they can to attain good skin. I help them understand exactly what they need to do for optimal results, monitor their progress carefully, and empower them to take charge of their skin care. They are so excited when they see their skin get better."

Patients of different ages have different needs, she says. "Patients over 30 usually need an anti-aging regimen to plump up fine lines and wrinkles, open pores for deep cleansing, and lighten sun spots and areas of discoloration. For those over 40, my goal is to give them the best choices of proven products and treatments and the knowledge they need to eventually be their own aesthetician. I build trusting relationships with my clientele, teach them how to care for their skin, and letting them know what can be done next to maintain great skin over time."