Welcome to ALKIMIYA
Alkimiya is the Tagalog word for "alchemy," the ancient tradition of combining different elements with the goal of transforming them into something new. The idea of modern alchemy suits our practice well — by combining advanced surgical interventions with time-honored traditions of holistic care that promote efficient recovery and general health maintenance. We aspire to transform the blocked energy of the root to anorectal wellness for everyone.
Meet Our Founder
Carlos San Mateo, MD, MA, FACS, DABS, DipABLM, FASCRS is a highly accomplished, triple board-certified specialist in general surgery, colorectal surgery, and lifestyle medicine. Renowned for his expertise in minimally invasive anorectal procedures, advanced preventive cancer screenings, and integrative care, Dr. San Mateo blends cutting-edge surgical technique with a holistic approach to patient wellness.
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Dr. San Mateo earned his Doctor of Medicine from the Boston University School of Medicine and completed his fellowship in Colon & Rectal Surgery at the University of South Florida. Throughout his distinguished career, he has served in pivotal leadership and clinical roles, including serving as the primary colorectal specialist for Kaiser Permanente across Sonoma and Marin counties and as Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Miami School of Medicine—where chief residents honored him with the "Attending of the Year" teaching award.
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A pioneer in preventive cancer care, Dr. San Mateo serves as Director Emeritus of the Anal Dysplasia Clinic at Kaiser Permanente San Francisco, where he spearheaded the expansion of the High Resolution Anoscopy (HRA) program for HPV-related anal cancer screening. His commitment to expanding access to specialized care extends internationally; he taught the first national HRA workshop in the Philippines and has delivered numerous educational lectures for medical societies across the country.
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Dr. San Mateo’s commitment to clinical advancement is reflected in his numerous publications and presentations at national and international conferences. His expertise spans minimally invasive anorectal surgery, laser and aesthetic medicine, and integrative medicine, currently serving as a fellow at the University of Arizona Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine.
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An active leader in the global surgical community, Dr. San Mateo is a member of the International Anal Neoplasia Society (IANS), the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS), the American College of Surgeons (ACS), and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE). Through Alkimiya Surgical Systems in San Jose, CA, his practice advocates a holistic approach to anorectal wellness, seamlessly blending technical excellence with compassionate, patient-centered care
