Advanced Laparoscopic Associates Bariatric Center

Let me start with my journey. I met with 3 different surgeons, not for any other reason than my insurance was changing due to changing organizations. Out of the 3 different surgeons, Dr. Sarah Wong was the one the insurance said was covering. I didn't do any research because you will always find a unhappy person. I wanted the ability to form my own opinions.

My first meeting with Dr. Wong, she came in with such a positive energy. She walked me thru the process, the expectations, goals of care, and next steps. I had came to the practice with a lot of the steps already done, but Dr. Wong's surgical coordinator helped me coordinate where the gaps were and what else needed to be done to get insurance approval.

I freaked out because it wasn't until the week of surgery that I got notification of approval. So keep as calm as you can, make sure you follow every point of guidance from the coordinator, and make sure to check the boxes.

Day of surgery- I had my surgery as Pascack Valley Medical Center. I walked in, got registered, walked to same day surgery, got my IV...etc, Dr. Wong came in and spoke to me and my boyfriend (at the time...now fiancé) and gave an overview of what to expect. We never felt that she was rushing us, and gave us ample time to ask questions/concerns. My boyfriend and I live close, so I went in and he went home while I was in the OR. Surgery went smoothly, and he returned to the hospital when I arrived into my room. She made sure to come see me before the end of the day and made sure my pain was managed and that what to expect next. I remained in the hospital 2 nights (only to ensure I was getting enough fluids in, which I knew walking into the surgery was going to be my biggest challenge). Dr. Wong came and saw me every day, ensuring my needs were met, that things after the surgery we going as expected. She sat down again took the time to answer mine and boyfriends questions. Dr. Wong has the most amazing bedside manner.

Post Surgery- I am currently nearing my 2 year anniversary for the sleeve surgery. I started my journey at 240.3 lbs at 5 ft 4 in (BMI 41.2) to present 155.3 (BMI 26.7). It was challenging the initial post operative period. However, if you follow her guidance and the guidance of the nutritionist (who was also phenomenal with ALA) you will lose weight. You need to be in the mindset to do this- it isn't easy, sacrifices will be made to ensure success. Join support groups. Remember this is a TOOL not an answer to losing and keeping weight off. Put the work in, use the other tool in your tool box, and you will see the results. Now, nearing 2 years later maintaining my weight, if I need anything I call the office and the office will help with and additional needs that arise.

I would recommend Dr. Wong and her team over and over to anyone who asks.

Best of luck on your journey and you are in great hands with Dr. Wong!

i had the gastric sleeve. he’s the best! very happy with my results so far and his office. he’s an excellent surgeon! i felt safe in his hands. very down to earth too!

So proud to be Dr.Schmidt's patient, can't wait to see what we can accomplish together!

My experience with Dr. Kraft was a very enlightening and helpful experience he guided me through my weight-loss surgery and even the last day before the surgery he seems very optimistic and capable to take care of me and it showed

I used Dr. Ewing for my lap band in 2012 and my recent vsg revision surgery. He is an amazing surgeon and has great bedside manner. I have the utmost respect for him and would highly recommend him to anyone considering wls.

He is a very nice and thorough surgeon. He assured my success the whole time. Im glad I chose him.

Dr. Eid is great, he listens and cares. Everyone in his office is great.

When I was considering VSG surgery I investigated many doctors especially ones that would be on my insurance. All my research and I kept coming back to one doctor. I was talking to my mother who had bariatric surgery 13 years ago and told her I just wished I new someone who used Dr. Schmidt. When I told her the name of the Dr. she laughed. He was her Dr. That immediately made me start the process and meet him for my initial appointment. The moment I met him I knew he would do my surgery. He was informative and made you feel very comfortable. His staff is wonderful. They took care of the insurance and helped me through the process. I also love having access to the nutritionist and RN's. The support after the surgery is awesome. I would strongly recommend Dr. Schmidt. I'm only 3.5 weeks out but I feel so much better. He's changed my life or the better!

Dr. Schmidt has shown to be a wonderful surgeon throughout this process! Although I am only a few weeks out of my surgery, I know I made the right decision with select Dr. Schmidt to perform my surgery. He was very informative in my consolation and made sure all my questions were answered on the day of my surgery. He also kept my family very will informed on the day of the surgery and was excellent in the hospital before I was discharged. Dr. Schmidt's staff were also excellent throughout the entire process before receiving the surgery. They answered all my questions and helped the approval process go as smooth as possible. They were very understanding and could relate how difficult this process was to receive the required approval. I would recommend Dr. Schmidt to anyone that is considering this procedure!

I just had surgery with Dr. Schmidt last Friday. I've been very happy thus far with everything and look forward to the new journey ahead, thanks to this man and his staff.