UCLA Center for Obesity and METabolic Health (COMET) Bariatric Center

I had my gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Chen at UCLA COMET at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center on April 23, 2019. I weighed in at 262 lbs. Today, over a year later, I am nearly 100 lbs down. Recovery was as expected with some soreness and fatigue, but I had zero nausea and to this day have not thrown up once since the surgery. I'm able to eat any type of food or have any type of drink without issue, just I can't have too much of anything.
I feel happier and healthier. Having this surgery is one of the best decisions I've ever made right next to having it done by Dr. Chen.

Dr. Chen and the the entire staff at the UCLA COMET program are amazing. I am forever grateful for the education, guidance and support I have received over the past year. I was given a chance to really live again thanks to the surgery and support.

Dr Chen saved my life. I was obese with diabetes and high blood pressure. I had the gastric sleeve last year and since then I have not had to take any diabetes meds or high blood pressure meds and my numbers are great. I have lost 57lbs and I can now hike for miles and miles. My life has really changed for the better. I have more energy and sleep better. I no longer have reflux as well. Dr Chen is a god send, such a nice patient doctor that takes the time to explain things until you have a clear understanding. I highly recommend Dr Chen and the gastric sleeve.

Dr Chen and the UCLA COMET Program are exceptional. If you are considering weight loss surgery and have the ability to goto UCLA, do it! The program is fairly structured and rigorous and you will be put through a lot of testing (I found the more issues you have the more tests), but its all for your personal safety so its worth it. The support staff, Linda who is the dietician is exceptional, and everyone is generally caring.

Dr Chen is bar none the best surgeon for this procedure. He is caring and prods you in the right way to prepare for the surgery but never made me feel bad about my health or that I should be ashamed in anyway (something sadly other Dr's have done in the past). He realized I had a severe need for the surgery and had literally tried everything prior to it. During the surgery day, post op he is always available for questions and answers promptly and professionally. I never felt alone during this journey and that was so helpful because the process can be daunting at times. Post op support is so critical in ensuring success long-term and I have been so pleased. Look no further then Dr Chen if you are planning this surgery in or near Los Angeles. You won't be disappointed. Its the best thing I have ever done and I am so happy I worked with Dr Chen and UCLA.

Dr.Dutson was my surgeon for vertical sleeve gastrectomy. He was concise, honest, and open about all facets of the process. During my visits with him I felt comfortable leaving this in his very capable hands. I was in and out within and hour, and on the road to recovery. The entire end to end process from the UCLA COMET program was seamless, and made this surgery one of the easiest decisions.

I can't say enough positive things about Dr. Chen. He has been so kind and caring throughout my weight loss journey. He is extremely knowledgeable and was able to answer all my questions. He always made sure I was comfortable at every stage of the process leading up to, including, and after the surgery, and that I had all my questions answered fully. I've always felt comfortable and well cared for at UCLA Health, and Dr. Chen exemplifies the best of the organization. I have recommended him and the COMET program at UCLA to several people, and will continue to do so. I have contributed testimonials for Dr. Chen and the program several times already, because I really believe in their approach and their staff. There's no better place to be for bariatric solutions for weight loss.

Anna is the best NP that I've ever meet. She is full of patience, kindness, and understanding. She is genuinely there to help patients reach their weight loss goals. She took the time to answer all (and I mean all. I had a whole note book) of my questions and to assure me that everything would be just fine. I love going to see her for my post ops because she is so full of knowledge and I can honestly have that open dialogue with her regarding any questions or struggles I may be having in this post op life. She does it with care and compassion and no judgement at all.

Dr. Dutson and his team are the most effective and professional group of people I have ever worked with. Dr. Dutson performed my gastric sleeve procedure on 8/19/2015. My starting weight was 210lbs surgery weight was 199.6.lbs, and my current weight is 132.1lbs. I'm only 9 months post-op but following the plan that Dr. Dutson and his team gave me help me achieve a life goal I never thought possible. Dr. Duston and his team are amazing and they took the time to educate me regarding pre and post op life for this procedure. I really can't rave enough about the team at the UCLA COMET program. I'm forever grateful to them.

Dr. Erik Dutson is an exceptional physician and surgeon, who is not only extremely knowledgeable in his field, but is understanding, friendly and communicative with his patients, both before and after surgery. His personal staff is outstanding. Nonetheless, The UCLA Medical System is sometimes daunting and difficult to manoevre. Once you obtain the direct contact numbers for the staff, you will find they are personable and very responsive to your needs. I highly recommend Dr. Dutson and his team.

Dr. Dutson has a person was very nice and easy to work with. He's easy to talk to and offered a lot of information. As far as my surgery, I am very dissatisfied. I had the RNY surgery June 2009. I only lost a measly 60 pounds! Most people that have had this type of surgery usually lose at least 15 pounds a month. Especially during the first year. I have NEVER lost the weight like that and I was following the rules. I truly think Dr. Dutson did not make my stomach small enough. I waited 10 years to have this surgery and it all seems like a waste now.