Category: Press Release
Pavel Yufit, MD of Mehling Orthopedics Named NJ Top Doc For 2026 NJ Top Docs has reviewed and approved Pavel Yufit, MD of Mehling Orthopedics for 2026. Dr. Yufit is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a focus on trauma care, dedicated to helping patients recover from complex injuries and regain mobility. With more than 15 years of experience, he treats patients at Mehling Orthopedics in Hackensack, New Jersey, and West Islip, New York. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Yufit serves as an assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, where he contributes to the education and training of future physicians. Dr. Yufit’s academic journey reflects both excellence and commitment. He graduated summa cum laude from Boston University with a degree in biochemistry and molecular biology before earning his medical degree from the New York University School of Medicine. He went on to complete his orthopedic surgery residency through New York Medical College at St. Vincent’s Hospital, gaining extensive experience across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. He further advanced his expertise with a highly competitive orthopedic trauma fellowship at the University of Louisville, training under renowned specialist David Seligson, MD. Actively engaged in orthopedic research, Dr. Read More
North Jersey Pulmonary Associates’ Dr. Nader Mahmood Earns 2026 NJ Top Doc Recognition NJ Top Docs is proud to announce that Dr. Nader Mahmood of North Jersey Pulmonary Associates has been reviewed and approved based on merit for 2026. Dr. Mahmood is a pulmonary and critical care specialist dedicated to helping patients breathe easier and live healthier lives. With offices in Clifton and Ridgewood, New Jersey, he treats a wide range of lung and sleep conditions, taking a personalized, collaborative approach to care that ensures each patient receives thoughtful, comprehensive treatment. Dr. Mahmood began his academic journey at Rutgers University before earning his medical degree from St. George’s University. He completed his internal medicine residency and pulmonary fellowship at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, followed by advanced training in critical care medicine at Montefiore Medical Center in New York. This extensive training allows him to manage both routine and complex respiratory conditions with confidence and precision. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Mahmood is deeply involved in medical education. He serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Medicine at New York Medical College and holds faculty appointments at multiple institutions, including Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine and Seton Hall-Hackensack Read More
Dr. Christopher A. Pumill Named “Up & Coming” NJ Top Doctor NJ Top Docs is proud to announce Dr. Christopher A. Pumill of Cross County Cardiology as an “Up & Coming” NJ Top Doctor, marking his third consecutive year receiving this recognition. Dr. Pumill is a board-certified cardiologist specializing in non-invasive cardiology, with advanced expertise in echocardiography, cardiac CT, and vascular medicine. He takes a proactive, prevention-focused approach to heart health, using state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostics to better understand each patient’s unique cardiovascular profile and guide thoughtful, comprehensive care. A Bergen County native, Dr. Pumill graduated magna cum laude from The College of New Jersey before earning his medical degree from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. He went on to complete his internal medicine residency at Duke University Medical Center and his cardiology fellowship at Mount Sinai Hospital, where he trained under renowned cardiologist Dr. Valentin Fuster. Dr. Pumill holds six board certifications and is an active member of several leading medical organizations, reflecting both his depth of knowledge and commitment to staying at the forefront of cardiology. In addition to his clinical work, he is an accomplished researcher and author, with publications in top-tier journals such as Circulation, Read More
Brian Mehling, MD of Mehling Orthopedics Named NJ Top Doc For 2026 NJ Top Docs has reviewed and approved Brian Mehling, MD of Mehling Orthopedics for 2026. Dr. Mehling, a board-certified orthopedic trauma surgeon, is redefining patient care through his work in regenerative medicine. With nearly 25 years of experience, he treats patients in Hackensack, New Jersey, and West Islip, New York, offering a thoughtful approach that blends advanced orthopedic care with innovative, science-driven therapies designed to support healing and recovery. Dr. Mehling’s journey in medicine is rooted in a strong academic foundation in biochemistry, earning both his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science degrees from The Ohio State University before going on to receive his medical degree from Wright State University School of Medicine. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson, New Jersey, followed by a sports medicine fellowship in Philadelphia, further refining his expertise in treating complex musculoskeletal conditions. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Mehling is deeply involved in research, particularly in the evolving field of stem cell therapy. Through his work with BHI Therapeutic Sciences, he continues to explore new possibilities in regenerative medicine, with the goal of improving Read More
Bhavin Patel, DDS of Seaview Dental Arts Awarded As 2026 NJ Top Dentist Dr. Bhavin Patel has been reviewed and approved by NJ Top Dentist for 2026, honoring his expertise in prosthodontics and his dedication to creating confident, healthy smiles through personalized care. A specialist in cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry, Dr. Patel is known for combining advanced technical skill with a true understanding of each patient’s goals. Whether restoring function or enhancing aesthetics, he takes a thoughtful, customized approach to every smile, focusing on results that look natural, feel comfortable, and last. Dr. Patel began his academic journey graduating magna cum laude from Seton Hall University before earning his dental degree from New York University. He continued his training with an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at NYU, where he received numerous awards. Driven to further specialize, he completed advanced education in Prosthodontics at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, refining his expertise in complex dental restorations and full-mouth rehabilitation. Today, Dr. Patel is often a trusted resource for both patients and fellow dental professionals, frequently receiving referrals for more advanced cases. He also shares his knowledge beyond the practice, lecturing both locally and internationally on Read More
NJ Top Docs Recognizes Dr. Livia Derdova for 2026 NJ Top Docs is pleased to recognize Dr. Livia Derdova for 2026, honoring her dedication to comprehensive eye care and her genuine passion for helping patients better understand and protect their vision. Dr. Derdova’s path to optometry has been shaped by years of hands-on experience and a deep curiosity about eye health. Having worked in both optometry and ophthalmology settings since 2006, she brings a well-rounded perspective to patient care. Her background allows her to approach each visit with both clinical precision and a strong emphasis on education, ensuring patients feel informed and confident about their eye health. Dr. Derdova earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Montclair State University and went on to receive a Master’s Degree in Public Health from Benedictine University. Dr. Derdova later completed her Doctor of Optometry degree at MCPHS University, along with externship training in primary care optometry and ocular disease. Her commitment to learning and advancing her knowledge was recognized early on when she was selected to present her research at the American Optometric Association’s annual meeting. In practice, Dr. Derdova provides full-scope primary eye care, including comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, Read More
NJ Top Docs Approves Dr. Jacob Katz of Katz Medical Group For 2026 NJ Top Docs is pleased to announce the approval of Dr. Jacob Katz of Katz Medical Group for 2026, recognizing his dedication to patient-centered, non-surgical orthopedic and sports medicine care. Dr. Katz is known for the way he connects with his patients, taking the time to listen, explain, and truly involve them in their care. Whether working with a competitive athlete or someone simply looking to move without pain again, he focuses on helping patients understand what is going on in their bodies and how to move forward with confidence. His approach is rooted in education, clear communication, and practical, personalized treatment plans. Specializing in non-surgical orthopedics, sports medicine, and interventional pain management, Dr. Katz treats patients of all ages and activity levels. His goal is not just to relieve symptoms, but to address the underlying cause of injury or discomfort so patients can return to doing what they love. Dr. Katz completed fellowship training in Sports Medicine and Non-Surgical Orthopedic Medicine at Bayfront Health Medical Center and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. He also completed his residency in Family Medicine at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital. His Read More
NJ Top Docs Approves Dr. Kenneth Kopacz for 2026 NJ Top Docs is pleased to announce the approval of Dr. Kenneth Kopacz for 2026, recognizing his longstanding commitment to excellence in spine care and orthopedic surgery. Originally from Lyndhurst, New Jersey, Dr. Kopacz brings both local roots and decades of experience to his practice. He began his academic journey at Princeton University, graduating summa cum laude with a degree in biochemistry, before earning his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. He completed his surgical internship at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, followed by his orthopedic residency, where he developed a strong foundation in musculoskeletal care. Dr. Kopacz went on to complete specialized fellowship training in spine surgery at SUNY Health Science Center in Syracuse, where he gained extensive experience treating complex spinal conditions, including degenerative disease, trauma, and spinal cord injuries. Today, he continues to provide comprehensive care, offering both surgical and conservative treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. Known for his steady, experienced approach, Dr. Kopacz focuses on helping patients regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to their daily lives with confidence. His high patient satisfaction ratings reflect not only his clinical expertise, but Read More
Dr. Paul L. Dionne of Glen Ridge, New Jersey, Named a 2026 NJ Top Dentist Paul L. Dionne, DMD has been recognized as an NJ Top Dentist for 2026, marking over a decade of distinction since first earning the honor in 2015 and reflecting his ongoing commitment to exceptional, patient-centered care. At Glen Ridge Dental Arts, Dr. Dionne has built a practice centered on connection, trust, and truly personalized care. Known for his warm, approachable style, he takes the time to listen closely and communicate clearly, ensuring every patient feels understood and confident in their treatment plan. For Dr. Dionne, dentistry is more than a profession, it is a passion. He finds great fulfillment in helping patients transform their smiles and, in many cases, their confidence. Whether it is completing a full smile makeover, relieving someone of dental pain, or guiding a child through their very first visit, he values the meaningful moments that come with caring for patients of all ages. From heartfelt thank-yous to seeing patients leave with renewed confidence, these experiences continue to inspire his work every day. Dr. Dionne earned his education at Rutgers University and Temple University before receiving his dental degree from the University Read More
Dr. Lisa Silbret and Dr. Alan Schechter Named NJ Top Docs for 2026 Dr. Lisa Silbret and Dr. Alan Schechter have been recognized by NJ Top Docs for 2026, honoring their continued commitment to providing comprehensive, high-quality dermatologic care to patients throughout New Jersey. Together, they bring a unique blend of advanced training, innovation, and a shared dedication to patient-centered treatment. Dr. Silbret is a board-certified dermatologist and Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology who specializes in cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatology. Known for her warm approach and attention to detail, she takes pride in helping patients feel confident in their skin while delivering natural, balanced results. Her background includes training at some of New York’s most respected institutions, including Albert Einstein College of Medicine, where she graduated with honors; an internship in Internal Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; and Montefiore Medical Center, where she served as Chief Resident. With a strong interest in aesthetics, Dr. Silbret has developed particular expertise in facial sculpting. Using a combination of Botox, biostimulatory fillers, and advanced laser treatments, she helps patients achieve subtle, non-surgical lifting and contouring of the face and neck, especially along Read More