Cardiologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Chiropractor providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Dentist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Dermatologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Family Physician providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
OB-GYN providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Ophthalmologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Orthopedic Surgeon providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Pediatrician providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Physical Therapist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Podiatrist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Psychiatrist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Greetings! I am a board certified general surgeon with over two decades of clinical practice since completing my doctorate and surgical residency at Loma Linda University School of Medicine. I treat the full spectrum of general surgical problems including hernias, gallbladder disease, breast cancer and benign conditions, with special interest in melanoma and trauma. I grew up in this area, and spent my youth in extensive manual labor which has contributed to both my dexterity and efficiency of movement.
I decided to become a physician during high school because I wanted to use my talents to help people. What I like most is being able to treat the whole person, resolving their health problems, and saving lives. I chose Surgery because it best fit my aptitudes, trained me to handle emergencies, and was adaptable for mission service. I’ve enjoyed volunteering during my teens at Inland Valley Medical Center, rotating in Kenya during medical school, and service trips to Peru, to China teaching Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS), and to India to teach Laparoscopic Surgery. I enjoy people and helping them survive and thrive, through operations or non-operative management.
I serve my community on our hospital's Ethics Committee, as the trauma director of our regional trauma center, and lead our Surgery Residency trainging the next generation of well qualified surgeons.
I enjoy outings with my family, horticulture, learning every day, exercising/hiking/camping/surfing, and playing the bagpipes.
Raymund Cordero, MD, is a skilled, dedicated, and board-certified doctor of medicine specializing in general surgery and has been practicing locally for over 20 years.
In addition to his work at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, Dr. Cordero also holds appointments at Inland Valley Regional Medical Center, Rancho Springs Medical Center, Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta, Temecula Valley Hospital, and Menifee Valley Hospital.
Dr. Cordero is a member of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), the American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS), and the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS). He is certified by the American Board of Surgery (ABS).
When Dr. Cordero isn’t serving patients, he likes watching basketball and soccer. He also enjoys spending time with his two children, who are both interested in pursuing medicine.
Francis Essien, MD, FACS, is a board-certified general surgeon and fellowship trained in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery.
Dr. Essien's zeal for the art and science of medicine and surgery began as a teenager at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria.
An interest in providing excellent patient care brought Dr. Essien to the United States to pursue a natural calling in the surgical specialty.
Passionate about cutting-edge, advanced, minimally invasive, and robotic surgical technology, Dr. Essien’s knowledge and expertise give patients the advantage of a faster recovery.
The surgeon’s more cosmetic approach also offers less pain and a quicker return to a happier and more productive lifestyle.
Dr. Essien is highly skilled in various procedures, most frequently performing laparoscopic surgery for severe gastroesophageal reflux disease, laparoscopic hernia repairs, hiatal hernia repairs, minimally invasive endocrine surgery, laparoscopic adrenalectomy, and laparoscopic colon resections for benign and malignant conditions.
Dr. Essien also performs laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, laparoscopic gastric bypass, and revision bariatric procedures.
With a passion for Bariatric surgery, Dr. Essien helps patients achieve their goals of a healthier weight while eliminating the medical illnesses associated with excessive weight and enjoying a better quality of life.
Dr. Essien believes in an individualized and holistic approach to improving the health and wellness of patients.
Outside of caring for patients, Dr. Essien enjoys spending time with family at home, cooking, traveling, cycling, and playing golf.
I am a board-certified general and vascular surgeon affiliated with Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates. Raised in Brazil, I'm fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. My passion for science, teaching and helping others led me to medicine, and I discovered my calling in surgery during anatomy class.
After graduating from the Federal University os Santa Catarina in Brazil, I continued my education in New York, completing residency in general surgery and a vascular surgery fellowship on the East Coast. Opting for warmer climate of California, I've been treating vascular diseases for over two decades, cherishing the connection with my patients. I prioritize lasting cardiovascular health beyond surgical interventions. Recently, I joined the faculty at the UHS General Surgery Residency program, where I stay updated on vascular surgery developments while enjoying teaching.
Outside of work, I endulge in cooking, hiking and tennis with family and friends.
Hege Johnsen, MD, FACS, is a board-certified general surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, providing complete surgical care to patients in Wildomar, Temecula, Hemet, and Menifee, California.
Dr. Johnsen studied at Albert Szent-Gyorgi Medical University in Szeged, Hungary, earning her medical degree. She then moved to the United States and completed a residency in general surgery.
Dr. Johnsen brings more than 20 years of experience to the practice. She specializes in general surgery but has a special interest in breast surgery and inguinal hernia repair without mesh (shouldice procedure).
Outside of Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, Dr. Johnsen holds appointments at several area hospitals, including Inland Valley Regional Medical Center in Wildomar, California; Rancho Springs Medical Center in Murrieta, California; Menifee Valley Hospital in Menifee, California; and Temecula Valley Hospital in Temecula, California; and Loma Linda University Medical Center.
Dr. Johnsen is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. She speaks English and Norwegian fluently, allowing her to serve the practice’s diverse clientele.
Dr. Johnsen welcomes anyone needing general, breast surgery, hernia repair or cholecystectomy to Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates today.
Bolaji Nafiu, MD, FACS, is a double-board-certified vascular surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates.
Dr. Nafiu studied at the University of Ibadan College of Medicine in Nigeria, earning his medical degree. After graduation, he moved to the United States. He completed a general surgery residency at the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Willowbrook, California, and a vascular surgery fellowship at Yale New Haven Hospital in Connecticut.
As a general and vascular surgeon, Dr. Nafiu treats various medical conditions, including blood clots, carotid artery disease, and chronic venous insufficiency. He also treats aortic aneurysms and peripheral vascular disease.
He holds privileges at several area hospitals, including Inland Valley Regional Medical Center in Wildomar, California; Rancho Springs Medical Center and Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta in Murrieta, California; and Temecula Valley Hospital in Temecula, California.
Dr. Nafiu is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a member of the Society of Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. He welcomes anyone needing vascular or general surgery to Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates today.
Craig Owens, MD, is a board-certified general surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates.
Dr. Owens studied at the Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts, earning his medical degree. Then, he completed a transitional year internship at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Brighton, Massachusetts.
Before entering private practice, Dr. Owens completed a general surgery residency at the Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium in Loma Linda, California, receiving extensive training in all aspects of surgical care.
Dr. Owens is knowledgeable in various surgical techniques and specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.
He holds privileges at several area hospitals, including Inland Valley Regional Medical Center; Rancho Springs Medical Center and Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta; Temecula Valley Hospital in Temecula, California; and Menifee Valley Hospital.
When he isn’t meeting with patients or performing operations, Dr. Owens enjoys golfing and car racing. He also believes in continuing education and stays abreast of advances in surgical techniques and technologies.
Dr. Owens is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery. He welcomes anyone needing general surgery to Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates today.
Amit Karmur, DO, is the newest vascular surgeon to join Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates (MVSA).
Dr. Karmur graduated from medical school at the Western University of Health Sciences and completed his general surgery residency at Community Memorial Health System in Ventura, California. He then went on to sub-specialize and complete his fellowship in vascular surgery at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center.
Dr. Karmur treats all types of diseases that affect the vascular system. He specializes in both traditional open surgical and minimally invasive endovascular techniques. These include diseases of the carotid arteries, aortic aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease, and dialysis access.
During his spare time, Dr. Karmur likes to travel and learn about new cultures. He also enjoys maintaining his health by working out and staying active by exploring the outdoors. He and his wife are both from the Inland Empire and are excited to be back in the community.
I am Dr. Kaylene Barrera, and it my absolute pleasure to be a surgeon in this community. I grew up in Southern California and got interested in Medicine when I was young. My mother had initially wanted to be a social worker, but then went back to school to become a nurse and would ask me to help her study by quizzing her with flashcards.
This led me to college at the University of California, Irvine and medical school at the University of Southern California, where I was fortunate to work with some amazing mentors that inspired me to go into surgery. My surgical training continued at the State University of New York, Downstate in Brooklyn where I trained at county and university hospitals. Again, I was blessed to have the most amazing mentors that taught me not only the technical aspects of surgery but the importance of dedication to our patients. I appreciated how as a surgeon, one could be involved in every aspect of a patient's care, contribute to scientific breakthroughs and be a patient advocate. Sharing what I have learned and experienced as a surgeon, I have published 9 peer reviewed publications, 33 national presentations, and four book chapters. I also have written about impact of meaningful issues such as drug shortage and the opioid epidemic, as these have a profound impact on my patients lives.
My journey has led be back to California, and to a great practice where I feel at home. My partners and I strive to treat each patient that we take care of like our family. As a general surgeon I have the opportunity to care for conditions ranging anywhere from lipomas and cysts to hernias, gallbladder disease, hemorrhoids, breast disease, trauma, and intestinal surgery.
Outside of the operating room, I enjoy playing the clarinet and saxophone, being an amateur gardener, and watching reruns of Star Trek TNG.
Thank you for choosing Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, looking forward to the opportunity to help you in your wellness journey
Francis Essien, MD, FACS, is a board-certified general surgeon and fellowship trained in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery.
Dr. Essien's zeal for the art and science of medicine and surgery began as a teenager at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria.
An interest in providing excellent patient care brought Dr. Essien to the United States to pursue a natural calling in the surgical specialty.
Passionate about cutting-edge, advanced, minimally invasive, and robotic surgical technology, Dr. Essien’s knowledge and expertise give patients the advantage of a faster recovery.
The surgeon’s more cosmetic approach also offers less pain and a quicker return to a happier and more productive lifestyle.
Dr. Essien is highly skilled in various procedures, most frequently performing laparoscopic surgery for severe gastroesophageal reflux disease, laparoscopic hernia repairs, hiatal hernia repairs, minimally invasive endocrine surgery, laparoscopic adrenalectomy, and laparoscopic colon resections for benign and malignant conditions.
Dr. Essien also performs laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, laparoscopic gastric bypass, and revision bariatric procedures.
With a passion for Bariatric surgery, Dr. Essien helps patients achieve their goals of a healthier weight while eliminating the medical illnesses associated with excessive weight and enjoying a better quality of life.
Dr. Essien believes in an individualized and holistic approach to improving the health and wellness of patients.
Outside of caring for patients, Dr. Essien enjoys spending time with family at home, cooking, traveling, cycling, and playing golf.
Brian Tiu, MD, is a board-certified vascular surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates.
Dr. Tiu always knew he wanted to be a doctor. Growing up, he volunteered at various hospitals and medical centers, which spurred his interest in medicine.
Dr. Tiu studied at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark, earning his medical degree. Then, he completed a surgical residency at the State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn and a vascular surgery fellowship at Maimonides Medical Center, also in Brooklyn.
These experiences inspired Dr. Tiu to pursue a career in vascular surgery. Dr. Tiu thinks vascular surgery is the most interesting field of medicine. As an expert in the field, he does everything from minimally invasive procedures, like angiograms, to open procedures, like removing blockages and performing bypasses.
Dr. Tiu loves making a difference in his patients' lives. He never rushes appointments and makes time to explain each vascular diagnosis in-depth. Specifically, he explains the natural course of diseases, including where they originate, why they occur, and what can be done to improve them.
I am a triple-board certified surgeon with expertise in general, colorectal and trauma/ critical care surgery. Born and and raised in Brazil, I completed my medical education at the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC).
In high school, my passion for Biology, Math and Physics led me to pursue medicine for its challenging and exciting nature. Working in the operating room, I take great satisfation in promptly addressing my patient's concerns through surgical interventions.
My frequent surgical procedures involve colorectal cancer removal, anorectal surgery (including hemorrhoids and fistulas), and hernia repair. With over two decades of surgical experience in Murrieta and Temecula, I am committed to providing patients with top-notch care and a positive treatment experience. As a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (FASCRS), I continuously strive to integrate new technologies into my practice.
Beyond my medical pursuits, I enjoy traveling with my family, watching movies, reading, operating my drone, and capturing aerial photographs.
Western Bariatric, AMC is a bariatric surgery provider serving patients in the San Bernardino, Riverside, and surrounding areas of Southern California. Available surgeries and treatments include Roux En Y Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, Lap Band, Medical Weight Loss, Body Contouring, and Hiatal Hernia Surgery. Douglas Krahn, MD, FACS is fellowship trained in general surgery and specializes in bariatric surgery. He is strongly dedicated to their patients and want to help each person live the healthy life that they deserve.
When patients arrive at Western Bariatric, AMC, the first goal is helping each person to determine their weight loss needs and goals. The doctors and staff at Western Bariatric, AMC can customize a weight loss plan for each person, whether it involves non-surgical options like the medical weight loss plan or surgical options like laparoscopic gastric bypass. Call to arrange a consultation anytime!
Dr. Joseph Ku helps men and women in Riverside, California, improve their appearance at Precision Plastic Surgery. His masterful surgical skills and advanced techniques have earned the admiration of both his patients and his colleagues.
Dr. Ku earned his biochemistry and cell biology majors and Spanish literature minor in just three years from the University of California San Diego (UCSD). He also received his medical degree from UCSD in 2000. While at the university, Dr. Ku entered the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa organization in honor of his high academic achievements.
After earning his medical degree, Dr. Ku completed his five-year general surgery program at UCSD. His budding passion for plastic surgery led him to conclude his residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he served as Chief Resident in his final year.
His native roots of Southern California drew Dr. Ku back to Riverside, where he’s established a network of appreciative patients as President of Precision Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Ku holds double board certifications from the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He became a diplomate of the American Board of Surgery during his postgraduate surgery internship.
Dr. Ku is a current member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Medical Association, California Medical Association, and Riverside Medical Association. He’s also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has affiliations with the Riverside Community College, Corona Regional Medical Center, and Parkview Community Hospital.
“Dr. Ku and his staff are great. Helpful, kind and polite always. I’m very happy with my procedure and the care they provided. I will go back and do recommend. ”
Dr. Joseph Ku, MD
Surgeon
4234 Riverwalk Parkway
Suite 170
Riverside, CA 92505
Western Bariatric, AMC is a bariatric surgery provider serving patients in the San Bernardino, Riverside, and surrounding areas of Southern California. Available surgeries and treatments include Roux En Y Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, Lap Band, Medical Weight Loss, Body Contouring, and Hiatal Hernia Surgery. Douglas Krahn, MD, FACS is fellowship trained in general surgery and specializes in bariatric surgery. He is strongly dedicated to their patients and want to help each person live the healthy life that they deserve.
When patients arrive at Western Bariatric, AMC, the first goal is helping each person to determine their weight loss needs and goals. The doctors and staff at Western Bariatric, AMC can customize a weight loss plan for each person, whether it involves non-surgical options like the medical weight loss plan or surgical options like laparoscopic gastric bypass. Call to arrange a consultation anytime!
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