I grew up in Bakersfield, California, and first became interested in medicine while making house calls with my father, a family practitioner. After attending junior college in Bakersfield, i joined the Marine Corps Reserve and graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in business. I went on to finish my premedical studies at the University of California, Davis.

    My first two years of medical school were in  Mexico. Following this I transfered to the Medical College of Virginia graduating in 1980. During medical school I found myself attracted toward a surgical specialty. I started my general surgery residency in Fresno, California, where I especially enjoyed reconstructive surgery.

Following my general surgery residency I spent two years at Southern Illinois University training under Dr. Elvin  Zook in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.I finished my training under the guidance of Dr. Elvin Zook at Southern Illinois University Plastic Surgery residency, after which I returned to Fresno to practice.

    As is the case for most plastic surgeons, my practice was initially reconstructive surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. After 18 years, my practice has evolved into what I would describe as primarily cosmetic. I enjoy all types of cosmetic procedures and their technical chalenges. There are constant improvements in surgical techniques and equipment about which I have continued to educate myself.

    My outside activities include snow skiing, golf, restoring a '57 Chevy, and spending time with my family. I particularly enjoy my yearly medical and missionary work in Central America with a local Christian fellowship.