I NEED HELP DECIDING ON A DR.
I've heard nothing but good things about Dr Nussbaum -- In fact, he was my 2nd choice as a surgeon if things hadn't worked out with my first choice. He has a dedicated following on an online support group as well as a physical support group. I don't know anything about Dr Ward.
My Dr was Dr Heather McMullen from United Surgical in Staten Island. She and Dr Jeffrey Nicastro work as a team doing RNY, DS and Lapband procedures. I had a Lap RNY on 6/16/03 and am down 111 pounds! I think they are great!
Hi Deborah...I too am in the process of choosing a surgeon. I went for a consultation with Dr. Nusbaum about a week ago and had nothing but good thoughts and feelings after walking out of his office. I haven't heard too much about Dr. Ward, I was also exploring Drs. Bertha and Abkins. But Dr. Nusbaum was very matter of fact, confident, took time to answer my questions, and did not make me feel like a number, which was important to me. Good luck to you. Marla
Hi Deborah!
The only doctor I've been to has been Dr.Capella. I absolutely loved him and his staff, they all seem very caring and friendly. He's been doing this procedure for years, and what I like best is that along with the bypass he also puts a lap-band, which helps you feel fuller sooner and longer. His office is located in Ramsey and performs surgery in Hackensack. Here's his website, in case you're intererested... http://www.capellasurgery.com/surgery/index.php
My best friend had her surgery done by doctor Binotti, she says he's a wonderful surgeon, but his bedside manners leave a lot to be desired. Don't think that should matter much, you're looking for a knowlegeable doctor, not a best friend.
I wish you luck in your search!!!
I work at Morristown Memorial and know a number of co-workers who have had Dr. Ward. They all speak well of him and are happy with their results. I don't know him personally but I've heard he is very nice.
I am scheduled for January 12 with Dr. Abkin. Drs. Abkin and Bertha between them do the majority of the bariatric surgeries here and their volume is the highest in the state. My own physician strongly recommended that I choose one of these two because of their volume. There are variations on how each surgeon does the procedure, mostly based upon research and their own trial and error. The more surgeries they do, the more they learn what works and what doesn't. Drs. Abkin and Bertha have really perfected this surgery. I chose Dr. Abkin because the nurses told me he has a slightly lower complication rate and I feel more comfortable with him personally. (I like his quirky sense of humor.)
Whatever surgeon you decide on, I hope you will come to Morristown. It's really a good hospital and the nurses will treat you like gold.