Board Certified Dermatologist

• University of Miami, B.S.
• Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine, D.O
• University of Health Sciences School of Medicine, M.D.
• Miami Childrens Hospital, Pediatric Residency
• Albany Medical College, Dermatology Residency
• Miami Childrens Hospital, Pediatric Dermatology Mini Fellowship
• Board Certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology

Dr. Badia opened Florida Skin Center in July 2001, just after completing her dermatology training in Albany, New York. Since then, she has developed the practice to be a full service facility, offering state of the art amenities to her patients. As Dr. Badia is a pediatrician, in addition to being a dermatologist, she is well versed in treating patients of all ages, even newborns. She is on the national osteopathic pediatric dermatology certification board. Medical dermatology for children and adults is the focus of Florida Skin Center. Under her direction, Florida Skin Center offers the only narrow band UVB phototherapy treatment center in the area for psoriasis and eczema, full Mohs services, dermatopathology services, and a full complement of laser, cosmetic and aesthetic services.

While her emphasis is patient care, she also makes efforts to be involved with the community, and has been recognized locally, with the Hispanic Affairs Advisory Board Volunteer of the Year and nationally, with the Congressional Medal of Distinction. Dr. Badia is a regular lecturer at the Miami Childrens Hospital Pediatric Postgraduate Course and is a national speaker for the American Association of Anti Aging Medicine. She lectures nationally and locally on a variety of dermatology topics, and is published in leading dermatology and pediatric journals.

Board Certified Dermatologist

• Georgetown University
• National Naval Medical Center, Dermatology Residency
• National Naval Medical Center, Internal Medicine Internship
• Board Certified by the American Board of Dermatology
• Professional Memberships
  • American Academy of Dermatology
  • American College of Mohs Surgery
  • The Association of Military Dermatologists
  • The Georgetown Clinical Society
  • The Osler Society
• Washingtonian Magazine, "Best Doctor," 1989-2008
• Jacksonville Naval Hospital, Teaching Award, 1986

Dr. David S. Freitag graduated from medical school in 1980 from Georgetown University Medical School. Dr. Freitag completed his residency in dermatology at Bethesda Naval Hospital in 1985. He trained in a variety of dermatological procedures. Dr. Freitag completed a fellowship in Mohs surgery with Richard Bennett M.D. of UCLA. He has also taught dozens of dermatology residents and served as past-president of the Georgetown Clinical Society and The Osler Society.

Physicians Assistant

Shirisha Vallarapu is a certified Physician Assistant. She attended Nova Southeastern University where she received a Masters in Medical Science and a B.S. in Physician Assistant Studies.

Shirisha has been working with Dr. Badia for over seven years. She sees patients for routine skin checks and problem visits. Shirisha also does the majority of the surgical procedures at the office including routine biopsies and excisions as well as specialized procedures such as sclerotherapy and platelet rich plasma treatments for hair loss. She also has training in laser procedures including hair removal, tattoo removal and vascular treatments.

Shirisha enjoys spending time with patients and is always trying to further her dermatology knowledge by attending conferences and workshops.

Physicians Assistant

Brandie Howell is a certified Physician Assistant.  She graduated from Erskine College, South Carolina, with a B.S. in Biology with honors.  She received her Physician Assistant training at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, where she received her Masters in Medical Science degree and graduated with highest honors.

Brandie’s interest in dermatology was enhanced by her research experience at the Medical College of Georgia.  She is a published researcher and enjoys the study and practice of dermatology.  Brandie enjoys providing excellent patient care with compassion, while also educating patients on the importance of proper skin care.  Brandie also performs many of the biopsies for Dr. Badia, as well as performing laser hair removal.

Aesthetician

Shanah is a licensed Facial Specialist who received her schooling at Florida Academy of Massage and Skin Care. Along with medical assisting she has over 8 years experience in aesthetic services at Florida Skin Center. During this time, Shanah has developed a strong, loyal clientele while expanding her career in the aesthetic field.