Meet the Team
Susan Cox, MD, FAAD
A NOTE FROM DR. COX
It’s hard to say good-bye after almost 40 years of practicing dermatology but as of October 1, I will be retiring.
Students and staff have frequently commented, “Your patients are so nice!” Yes, you are. My first toddler patients are now parents and trust me to see their children. I hope you can all imagine how fun it is to know four generations of a family.
Over the years, your problems have challenged and educated me and your varied interests and accomplishments have been entertaining and enriching. I like to think that many of you will think of me as a friend.
For those of you who have asked what I will do now - I am looking forward to more time with my darling grandsons, traveling and playing piano. I’ve never read about a hobby that I didn’t at least believe I should try, so I think I’m going to be very busy.
Again, tremendous thanks for your trust, loyalty and friendship during my lovely career.
Melissa Watcher, MD, FAAD
Dr. Watcher is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 30 years of experience. A lifelong Southern California resident, she was fortunate to complete all of her education and medical training within the UC system. She earned her undergraduate degree at UC Irvine, received her medical degree from UC Davis, completed her internship at UCSF, and returned to UC Irvine for her dermatology residency.
Dr. Watcher practices general medical and surgical dermatology and has extensive experience in a wide range of dermatologic procedures and surgeries. Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of sharing her knowledge and expertise with numerous physician assistant and nurse practitioner students. She is also passionate about mentoring high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in medicine and the healthcare field.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Watcher enjoys spending time with her family, including her two adult children and her parents, both of whom are in their 90s. She loves to travel, has a deep appreciation for art, and considers herself a devoted foodie.
Hui-Kyung Tina Kim, MD, FAAD
Dr. Kim is board certified in dermatology and is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. She graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Biochemical Sciences from Harvard University. She attended medical school at Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons and graduated with a Dean’s Letter recognition of “Outstanding,” awarded to the top 5% of the class. She also joined the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society in medical school and continues to be a member. She completed her internship at New York Presbyterian-Columbia Medical Center and her dermatology residency at University of Illinois, Chicago, where she served as co-Chief Resident during her final year.
Dr. Kim's interests lie in medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology. Outside of medicine, her hobbies include reading, running, playing tennis, and most of all, hiking with her husband and three teenagers.
Allyson Yelich, DO, FAAD
Dr. Yelich is board certified in dermatology and is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. After attending the University of Washington for college, she attended medical school at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California. She completed her dermatology residency at HCA/USF Morsani College of Medicine: Largo Medical Center Program in Largo, Florida. Prior to joining Premier Dermatology, she practiced general dermatology in Missoula, Montana, where she cared for patients of all ages across the spectrum of medical and surgical dermatology.
Dr. Yelich is thrilled to return to Newport Beach where she was born and raised. She and her husband have two young daughters and she enjoys playing soccer in her spare time.
Samantha, Office Manager
Dayana, Front Office/Check In
Aislinh, Front Office/Check Out
Valerie, Medical Assistant Lead
Esperanza, Medical Assistant
Alex, Medical Assistant
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