Re: Dr. Michael Melkonian

I have noticed there are quite a few of you that used him and he is getting very positive feedback from you all. I live near Wilmington and there are only 2 doctors locally to choose from. I'm wondering if it wouldn't be wise to travel a bit further to a doctor that has a bit more experience and more people that recommend him. What do you think? Thanks, all. M

If my insurance covered it then I may go somewhere else.I love my Dr and have had to go so often I am glad he is in Charlotte where I live.I see alot go to somewhere near Cape Fear .Are there good Drs there?Look up any Drs here and read about there surgery in yrs and number of cases.If you can't find any near Willmington then you may have to go further.Good Luck.My friend lives in Supply ,NC and says the same thing you did.Dee

Hi Mary Ann I am a Dr. M. patient and think he is wonderful. I also had major complications and would still recommend him. The complications were due to my body and not his skill. (read profile). He is not the most congenial person, but he has always taken the time to answer any question I may have, stay by me through my surgeries, answer any question for my wife or family. I am an extremely friendly person and like people who like to talk a lot! With that being said, he smiles, tells you what you need to know to make good informed decisions and then stays as long as is necessary to answer your questions. He will not sit around and joke with you, but hey, he is good. With all of that being said, I belong to the Gastonia WLS support group and I haven't heard anyone say anything negative about their doctors and we have many different ones to chose from....Voellinger, Zweng, Melkonian, Bauman, Lowe, etc....I hope I haven't left anyone out. Two of our members went to Chapel Hill and several went to Dr. Cook in Hickory. Personally I chose Melkonian because that was who my PCP sent me to. I didn't do the information sessions at the local hospital, but was a direct referral. I also had to have someone that was in my network for insurance purposes. I personally would want to stay near my home for surgery so my family would not be burdened if complications should arise. If you have surgeons in your area I would check them out thoroughly and go with someone local. Just my opinion. Larry

I love Dr.Melkonian! I chose him because my best friend had surgery with him 4 1/2 years ago. Also after hearing from other patients of his and meeting him myself I knew he was the one for me My surgery went wonderfully with him - Ive had no pain, no complications and no issues eating or drinking so far! I couldnt be happier!!!!!

Hello Mary Ann, I also am a Melkonian Girl, I love him, he saved my life I did my research and decided on Melkonian , it was most important to use who I felt comfortable with. Would I travel for Melkonian ? --- YES I would. And remember you have family in Charlotte, all of us OH people that live here I know my husband and I would be glad to help you out while in town, just let me know if you are planning a trip . Melkonian's experence is worth the drive. Happy Friday Allison

Hi Mary Ann, I think Dr. M is the greatest. But remember, the follow up and checkups and what if something goes wrong? That's a long way to travel. Keep that in mind...But as far as Dr's go, he's the greatest....Good Luck and take care. Sandi

Hi Mary Ann - I am almost 4 months post op and had my surgery performed by Dr. David Miles. I have worked with him in the past and am very familiar with his outcomes which are excellent. He has performed over 475 lap RNY surgeries and has taken very good care of me. There are alot of people who would recommend the surgeons in Wilmington. Dr. Miles support group is the first Wed and Dr. Harris' is the third Tues of each month (I think, call their offices) so you can go and talk to others who have had surgery with them. I wouldn't just go by recs on a website. I think most of the people on this site are from the Charlotte area (???) Anyway, good luck and e-mail me if any questions. Good Luck! Denise

Hey, I'm close to Wilm and have Dr.Harris as my dr.He is the greatest.Doesn't have much of a bedside manner but is still a great surgeon,My advise is to go with the one you are most comfortable with. Glenda

Hi Mary Ann Dr Melkonian is a wonderful doctor...I have had the most awesome experience with this surgery and I honestly feel 99% of that is due to having chosen Dr. Melkonian. Good luck with you decision. Jamey