Sage Bariatric Institute Bariatric Center

Dr. Pilcher was everything I hoped he would be. His office staff was very nice and friendly. The best thing I think was the program they have there. They really rally around and make you feel like you are their top priority. The main thing I do not like is the length of time it takes to do anything - consult date takes months/years, waiting for surgery date takes a long time, etc. I hope it means they spend more time with me when it really counts - during and after the surgery. He addressed the risks of surgery, but did not try and scare me, probably because he was knew I was already aware of the risks. He seemed very knowledgeable about the surgery, but has a wonderful, kind bedside manner as well. I think Dr. Pilcher is everything I am looking for in a wls surgeon.

I've only met with Dr. Pilcher once but personal GP had the procedure done. I don't think I've ever heard one doctor speak so highly of another.physician. He has been a big help in dealing with insurance company, but we're still awaiting word from them.

I had my first meeting with Dr. Pilcher on Wednesday, July 18. This was their first day in a new office with a new program beginning at Methodist Specialty and Transplant Hospital. I guess I'm kind of a guinea pig. With this new program they are making a few changes. Now the patient meets with the nutritionist and therapist right from the beginning instead of waiting until after surgery. Dr. Pilcher seemed very competent, if a little dry. His staff was very courteous. His basic statement to me was that once this process was begun that he would be with me through the whold thing. He explained that this was the reason that he did not stack surgeries. This way he is better able to give closer attention to each patient. He does seem to emphasize aftercare. He did address the risks, in fact, so much so that I grew a little nervous. But he said that I would grow to trust his judgement later if he didn't sugar coat things now. I would rate him relatively high. I have only had one meeting with him so it's difficult for me to be too effusive. I would say surgical competence is more important, of course, but having said that I don't want a jerk either!

June 11, 2001 - I went to my first monthly meeting
May 2001. I was very impressed with Dr. Pilcher.
I have my first consult on August 8, 2001. I can
hardly wait. I will update later. So far I am
very impressed

My first impression is that he has a very good bedside manner.

nothing has changed.

Dr. Pilcher's staff is very helpful.

I don't think there was anything that I didnt like about him.

He explained about the risk.

Dr. John Pilcher Jr. in San Antonio TX is my surgeon. My first impression was "boy is he cute" and then "boy is he skinny". He has a terrific sense of humor and listens to everything I say. He's the greatest! His office staff is very friendly and helpful, even if I bother them to death. There is nothing I dislike about Dr. Pilcher except that it's to bad he's married :). Future patients should know that he is very good at what he does and you can really trust him to take care of you. He has a great aftercare program which consists of a lifetime relationship with his patients. You will have a followup appointment every year to see how you are doing and if any problems occur you can be sure he will be there to help you. He also has a support group that meets each month. He attends the meetings himself and answers questions. I would rate him as a 10 and say that his surgical competence and bedside manner are both great!
I've met 5 of his patients who had surgery the same week I had surgery and all stated how great he was, how much they liked him and what a good surgeon he was. A couple of them had slight problems after surgery and said he was there by their side working with them through the whole process.

He is very knowledgeable. Extremely gentle and really sweet. He answers all my questions thoroughly. The office staff has been great, for the most part

My first impression of Dr Pilcher was that he was an extremely warm and personable individual. He was very honest about the surgical procedure and it's risks. He patiently answered all of my questions and put me completely at ease. His office staff was wonderful as well. My only complaint was the length of time I had to wait for my initial appointment. I do feel, however, that his competence as a surgeon and his follow up program make him well worth the wait!

I was surprised how young Dr. Pilcher was when I first met him. He is extremely nice and gives a completely thorough picture of the risks and benefits from this procedure. He spoke to me as a person which I greatly appreciated. I had already done extensive research and had a list of questions which he patiently went through with me. I have no negative thoughts about him. I was not necessarily impressed with his office staff. There seems to be a lack of organization or possibly just not enough people to handle the patient load.

Haven't met him yet. Just got an appointment on 10/15/99. Can't get in to see him until January 27,2000. The lady making the appointment was very nice.

01-05-2000 The office called Monday and changed my date to 01-18-2000 which I am glad of !! A little sooner !!

03-12-2000 Sorry didn't update.. I had my appointment in January. Dr. Pilcher is excellent. Just as I had heard, he is very caring, honest and explains everything very well. I will say the most shocking part was when he showed me the actual size my pouch will be when it's over !! But I feel that
he is careful to make sure you fully understand. The office staff seemed very nice !!

07-04-00 Dr. Pilcher and his staff have been wonderful during all this ins mess. He has sent letters. Toni called them weekly till they decided something about the sleep study. I have been very impressed with them all so far.

12-03-00 Well.. a little disappointed at this point since he has had major staff overturn and is way behind on paper work, but still feel quite confident with his skill as a surgeon and physician.

01-06-01 Things are a little better with the office staff.. guess they are adjusting and learning the ropes. I still feel Dr.
Pilcher is who I want to use !!

02-27-01.. Went for preop stuff yesterday.. still impressed with Dr. Pilcher. Things were much better with the office the last few weeks. I would recommend him any day. Although now he has an incredibly long waiting list !!!

03-16-01...I was so pleased with him during the whole surgical process. The hospital staff raved and ranted over how impressed they are with him there. I am glad that I was in the hands of a skilled doctor such as Dr. Pilcher. My family was very pleased with the way he explained things and informed them of the surgical events. I do highly recommend him.