Physicians

Choosing the right provider to care for your feet, or those of a loved one is an important decision. Newport Foot & Ankle Center founder and medical director Dr. Jeffrey Haupt, a distinguished foot doctor in Orange County, is passionate about both learning and teaching fundamental techniques in the field of podiatry. He is currently the only podiatrist on the clinical faculty at the University of California, Irvine, and regularly teaches foot and ankle skills workshops to podiatry health professionals all over the country. Dr. Haupt is the Founder and Director of Orange County’s only ACFAS Certified Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgery Fellowship Training Program, of which there are only 40 in the United States. He is also the only U.S.-trained podiatric surgeon to undergo a two-week mini-fellowship in Milan, Italy for Advanced Techniques in External Ring Fixation. You and your feet can take great comfort in Dr. Haupt’s stellar training, experience, and skill.

Dr. Bryant Mercado earned a dual Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Irvine, where he graduated cum laude and received special recognition for multidisciplinary study. He went on to complete the Pre-Health Post Baccalaureate Program at Chapman University in Orange, CA, and earned his medical degree from the prestigious Temple University in Philadelphia, PA.

Afterward, Dr. Mercado completed a rigorous residency program at the renowned St. Luke’s University Health Network in Allentown, PA, where he served as Chief Resident during his final year. He received extensive training in Wound care/Limb Salvage, Orthoplastics, Trauma with Internal and External Fixation, Elective Forefoot/Rearfoot surgery, Nerve Releases, and Sports Medicine.

Beyond his exceptional education and training, Dr. Mercado, another member of our team of foot doctors in Newport Beach, stands out for his meticulous attention to detail, unwavering commitment to patients, and extensive expertise in podiatric medicine. He is passionate about providing medical education and care to his patients, and takes great pride in utilizing his Spanish-speaking skills to broaden his impact and reach on the local community. His ultimate goal is to design an individual treatment plan to help each of his patients achieve the best possible outcome.

In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and cheering for the Los Angeles Lakers.

A SoCal native, Dr. Shen graduated from UCSD with a Bachelor of Science and went on to complete Pre-Health Post Baccalaureate Program at California State University, Fullerton . He received his Doctorate Podiatric Medicine Degree at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. He went on to complete a comprehensive foot and ankle surgical residency at New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital.

Throughout his training as a foot doctor in Orange County, Dr. Shen gained exposure to a diverse array of foot and ankle pathologies. These included conditions like fungal nails, heel pain, ingrown nails, tendonitis, arthritis, and lacerations, as well as intricate cases of foot and ankle trauma requiring reconstructive surgery.

Dr. Shen is focused to provide the best care that is patient specific and that enables the patient to be part of the process of their treatment plan. He will provide all treatment options to give the patient the best possible care. Dr. Shen manages and treats many pathologies and all types of medical conditions relating to the lower extremity. Dr. Shen is also a Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine.

Dr. Michelle Yoakim earned her medical degree from Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ graduating with honors as a member of the Pi Delta Honor Society for academic excellence. She completed her residency at North Colorado Medical Center, in Greeley, Colorado, where served as Chief Resident in her final year. Her training provided comprehensive experience in trauma, pediatric foot disorders, wound care, nerve releases, sports medicine, elective surgery, and advanced reconstructive techniques.

Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Yoakim has made notable contributions to podiatric research and education. She has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and case studies, and presented her work at national conferences. Her passion for service extends globally, having participated in surgical missions to the Yucatán, where she screened and treated children with congenital foot deformities and performed reconstructive procedures.

Dr. Yoakim combines her extensive education and specialized training with meticulous attention to detail and a deep commitment to patient care. She is dedicated to creating personalized, patient-centered treatment plans designed to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Outside of her medical practice, Dr. Yoakim enjoys spending time with her family and pets, traveling, and cheering on her favorite sports teams.