Meet Our Physician Assistants

James Bae is a board-certified physician assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). He graduated from Rutgers University in 2009 and earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from D'Youville University in 2023. James enjoys contributing to and working alongside a talented group of surgeons. In his free time, James enjoys hiking, trying new restaurants, and spending time with his family.

Nicole Bancroft is a board-certified physician assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She is licensed in both New Jersey and New York and a member of the American Academy of Physician Associates. Nicole earned a Bachelor of Science in Medical Diagnostics-Pre Physician Assistant from the University of Delaware in 2021 and subsequently completed a Master of Science in Physician Assistant at Seton Hall University in 2024. Her love for plastic and reconstructive surgery developed throughout her elective clinical rotation at Hackensack University Medical Center. She is excited to grow her career with a team of talented surgeons and physician assistants. In her free time, Nicole enjoys exercising, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Claudia is a board-certified physician assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She graduated from Rutgers University with a bachelor's degree in biological sciences. She continued her education at Emory and Henry University, where she earned a master’s degree in physician assistant studies. Claudia is a member of the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA). Her passion for plastic and reconstructive surgery stems from an interest in the wide spectrum of life-changing surgical interventions offered to patients. Claudia is proud to contribute to a team of passionate surgeons and physician assistants, providing quality care and positively impacting patient’s lives. In her free time, Claudia enjoys spending time with friends and family, exercising, and reading.

Michele Burgagni is a board certified physician assistant who joined our practice in 2016 after earning a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Long Island University. Having watched a close family member experience breast cancer, Michele developed a special interest in breast reconstruction after mastectomy. She enjoys being a part of our talented, passionate group of physicians and feels privileged to learn from her colleagues daily. When assisting in procedures that help cancer patients regain their health, Michele is regularly reminded of why she chose to work in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Outside of being a PA, Michele enjoys planning weddings.

Stephanie Catalano is a board-certified physician assistant through the NCCPA. She graduated from the College of St. Elizabeth in 2009 and went on to complete her Physician Assistant Program in 2014 with a masters in Health Science from Drexel University. Stephanie enjoys working in the field of plastic surgery because of its broad specialty, taking care of patients of all ages in both cosmetic and reconstructive purposes. In her free time, Stephanie enjoys cooking.

Justyna is a board certified Physician Assistant. She earned a Master of Science Degree at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University. She developed a particular interest in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery while working with providers in the specialty during her clinical training. She was excited to join The Plastic Surgery Center and to work along side of as well as to learn from highly specialized Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. She enjoys the diversity the specialty offers, working with patients of all ages, and being there for patients as they go through their surgical journeys. In her spare time, she likes traveling, running, and hiking.

Alec DeSomma is a board-certified physician assistant. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences from Rutgers University. Before pursuing PA school, Alec gained valuable experience as a specialty program intake coordinator at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction. She completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant at Seton Hall University in May 2024. Alec has rejoined our practice upon graduation, eager to apply her clinical skills to her patient care. In her free time, Alec enjoys spending time with her son, cooking, exercising, and playing soccer.

Cristina is a board-certified physician assistant who graduated from Weill Cornell Medical College in 2014 with a Master of Science in Health Sciences. She spent her first three years of practice working in the Burn Intensive Care Unit, learning advanced wound care modalities and critical care. She developed a strong interest in post-traumatic reconstruction and has worked in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery since 2017. Cristina enjoys taking care of patients for both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures and is passionate about helping patients improve their quality of life. In her spare time, Cristina is an avid runner and traveler.

Adriana is a board-certified physician assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She graduated from Monmouth University with a Master of Science in Physician Assistant in 2017. Adriana wanted a career that helps patients of all ages improve their quality of life, and working in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery has allowed her to do so. She believes having a variety of specialties provides patients with the best treatment options for their individual needs. In her free time, Adriana enjoys baking and spending time with her family.

Gina graduated from Quinnipiac University in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences and a Minor in Chemistry. In 2010, she obtained a Master of Science from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and has been with our practice since graduation. Gina obtained board certification through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) and is a member of the NJSSPA and the AAPA. Her love of plastic and reconstructive surgery stems from a balanced interest in patient care and diversity of procedures she takes part in. Gina is proud to be on a team of talented, passionate surgeons who are capable of impacting people’s lives through highly specialized, life-changing surgeries. In her free time, Gina enjoys cooking, working out, and shopping.

Mae Kane is a board-certified physician assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She graduated from King's College with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2021. Mae continued her education at Saint Elizabeth University, earning a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2023. She chose a career in plastic and reconstructive surgery due to the difference and impant it has on patient's lives. Mae is an active member of the AAPA and NJSPA. In her free time, Mae enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Jenna graduated from King’s College with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Studies and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. She is board certified through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) and is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA). Jenna is excited to collaborate with the talented surgeons and physician assistants of the practice. She is proud to have a job where such a positive impact can be made on the patients’ lives through highly specialized surgeries. In Jenna’s spare time, she enjoys traveling, working out, and shopping.

Ashley is a board-certified physician assistant who earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at DeSales University. Ashley enjoys traveling and getting to experience new foods and adventures whenever she can.

Julia is a board-certified physician assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She is licensed in both New Jersey and New York. Julia obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Quinnipiac University, where she held the Quinnipiac Academic Award. She continued her education at Saint Elizabeth University, where she obtained a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. Julia developed a love for plastic and reconstructive surgery while completing an elective clinical rotation at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan, New York. Throughout this time, she found interest in not only restoring a patient’s physical appearance, but their ability to function normally after cancer surgery as well. Julia holds several active memberships, including the American Academy of Physician Associates, American Association of Surgical Physician Assistants, Association of Plastic Surgery Physician Assistants, and New Jersey State Society of Physician Assistants. In her free time, Julia enjoys hot yoga, shopping, and spending time with friends and family.

Nikie is a board-certified physician assistant through the National Commision on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She graduated from Cabrini University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology Pre-Medicine in 2013. Nikie continued her education at Monmouth University, where she received a Master of Science in Physician Assistant with honors in 2017. Nikie finds the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery deeply gratifying due to the patient impact and evolving nature of the specialty. She enjoys collaborating alongside plastic surgeons in the clinic and operating room, as well as providing care to patients admitted to the hospital. Nikie was born and raised in central New Jersey, but now resides with her husband and two daughters in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. In her free time, Nikie enjoys baking, cooking, crocheting, photography, spending time with friends and family, visiting the shore, and watching football.

Sydney graduated from King’s College with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Studies and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies.  She is board certified through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).  Sydney is eager to work alongside talented plastic and reconstructive surgeons.  She enjoys assisting patients throughout their surgical journeys along with witnessing the dramatic and profound impact that plastic surgery can have on patients’ lives.  In Sydney’s spare time, she enjoys working out, trying new foods, playing basketball, and traveling.

Ashley is a certified Physician Assistant who obtained her certification from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) in 2021. She obtained her B.S. from William Paterson University, graduating with Honors. She then went on to complete her training at Rutgers University-New Brunswick where she obtained her Masters in Science. She is a member of both NJSSPA and AAPA. Ashley’s love for surgery began when she shadowed multiple surgical PA’s during her time as an undergraduate. She believes communication is key in providing prime patient care. During her free time she enjoys cooking, working out and spending time with family.

Zaneta earned her Physician Associate degree at Rutgers University School for Health Professions in 2018. She became a member of The Plastic Surgery team shortly after graduation, working mainly as a first assistant in the operating room, while also seeing patients in the office, aiding with their preoperative management and postoperative care. In addition to her surgical duties, Zaneta is also a part of our It Aesthetix team of aesthetic injectors, tending to patient's aesthetic needs in our Shrewbsury and Freehold offices.

Jennifer is a board-certified physician assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She graduated from Seton Hall University with a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2019 and spent five years working in vascular surgery, providing care to patients with complex medical conditions. With a lifelong interest in plastic surgery, Jennifer is dedicated to delivering impactful and transformative outcomes for her patients. In her free time, she enjoys reading, attending Orangetheory Fitness classes, and practicing yoga.

Jennifer Rey is a board certified physician assistant who earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. She was excited to join our practice and work alongside top surgeons in reconstructive and plastic surgery. Jennifer has a special interest in complex abdominal wall reconstruction, breast reconstruction after mastectomy, and caring for the overall wellness of our patients. In her free time, Jennifer enjoys working out, especially participating in Orange Theory classes.

Karli is a board-certified physician assistant through the National Commision on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She graduated from Rutgers University with a bachelor’s degree in 2018. Karli continued her education at Monmouth University, where she completed the physician assistant program and obtained a Master of Science in Health Science in 2023. She chose the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery because it encompasses many facets of patient care through surgical intervention, including achieving a cosmetic result, regaining functionality, and relieving persistent pain. In her free time, Karli enjoys crafting, sharing meals with friends and family, and spending time in nature.

Megan is a board-certified physician assistant who obtained her Masters of Physician Assistant Studies at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. She is a surgical PA who also offers in-office injectable treatments and microneedling. In her free time, Megan enjoys an athletic lifestyle which includes CrossFit and running.

Nicolette is a board certified physician assistant who graduated from Towson University with a bachelor of science in Health and Exercise Science. She then went on to complete her masters in physician assistant studies at Monmouth University. She completed a 4 week clinical rotation at The Plastic Surgery Center during her graduate studies, which is where she discovered her passion for plastic and reconstructive surgery. Nicolette is proud to be able to contribute to a team of innovative surgeons and provide quality care to patients that need it most. She loves seeing the positive, life changing effects our surgeries have on patients. In her free time, Nicolette enjoys spending time with family and friends, exercising, and hanging out at the beach.

Lola is a board-certified physician assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She completed the Physician Assistant Bridge Program at Drexel University, earning both a Bachelor of Health Science and Master of Health Science. During her surgery rotation, Lola collaborated with one of our physicians on several cases, which solidified her pre-existing interest in plastic and reconstructive surgery. She is particularly drawn to the artistry, collaboration, fulfillment, and diversity inherent in this field. Lola is excited to begin her career alongside a team of accomplished surgeons and physician assistants. In her free time, Lola enjoys baking, skiing, and spending time at the beach.