Donald Hess Bariatric Surgeon MD, FACS
8 yr Experience
5 yr in Bariatrics
8 yr in Laparoscopic Surgery
3 yr in Laparoscopic Bariatrics
90% Practice is Bariatrics
Min Age of Patient is 17
Max Age of Patient is 65
Adjustable Gastric Band
8 yr Experience
5 yr in Bariatrics
8 yr in Laparoscopic Surgery
3 yr in Laparoscopic Bariatrics
90% Practice is Bariatrics
Min Age of Patient is 17
Max Age of Patient is 65
Adjustable Gastric Band
He seemed very friendly and concerned, enthusiastic about doing my surgery and the life changes that would result. His office staff has been very friendly and helpful, though at times things seemed a bit disorganized (but easily cleared up and always handled promptly). He talked a lot about the importance of the support groups and really making the necessary changes. So far I am really pleased with him and the care I've gotten.
Dr.Hess was very friendly and understanding. Now that im Post Op...i find him that much better if at all possible. He is willing to answer any and all questions or concerns. I only wish that he was more available where he is in his office only on fridays. as for new patients go, he is there for YOU and will to help you in anyway or form. From the begining he talks to you about the after care and what to expect. After surgery you will see a dietition. In the begining he WILL inform you of any and all risks as there are in all surgeries. If i had to rate him..i would give him a 91/2 out of 10. I think his surgical competence and bedside manner is great..i cant complain at all...
I have only had one meeting with Dr. Hess and will see him again on 10/01/04. My first impression of him is that he is a very caring doctor and would go the extra mile for you. The woman I have been dealing with at his office is always upbeat and willing to answer any questions I had. She never rushed me off the phone. I haven't had the surgery yet, but I know there will be an aftercare program. I was told the appointments would be made before leaving the hospital. I would rate Dr. Hess A-1 due to listening to others comments at the support group meetings I attended.
He was very pleasant, direct, encouraging. As I speak with more people who have had him as a surgeon and speak with his coworkers I am finding that he is a wonderful man very invested in the care of his patients. I am sure I will like even more each time I meet with him.
His office staff is very polite and helpful despite being very busy!
I have not found anything I don't like about him!
I gather he is very busy and about to become even busier as the chief surgeon for bariatic surgery leaves the hospital and he takes over. Probably well worth the wait for any visit with him!
Have not discussed aftercare much, yet, however he was very forthright about surgery being a tool and the process being a lifestyle change requiring committment.
From my one visit and what others say about him I would give him an A! For example, a WLS support group from another hospital held a fashion show a few months ago on a Sunday afternoon. Several of his patients were attending and I think in the fashion show and he attended, too! Imagine, a surgeon giving up a Sunday afternoon to support his patients!
I haven't experienced much of his bedside manner yet, but I know his surgical expertise is great and I am sure he balances both very well.
He was great, liked him from the start
like him even better,he is so kind and nice
everyone is wonderful, especially Jared
N/A
Not intimidating at all,very easy to talk to
very much so, with much staff willing to help
explained them but also show % of how unlikely
He is a 10++++++++
of course you want surgical competence,but I also know he is very caring and compassionate too.
Very informative and completely understanding of my situation. His 1 yr. pre-op program prepared me for this life changing decision.
My impression reinforced each time I saw the doctor.I had complete confidence in him.
The staff of Dr. Hess was always eager to answer questions and very pleasant.
I am so greatful and thankful for this skilled surgeon that I have nothing I least liked about him!!
Patients should know that they will be carefully prepped emotionally and physically for this procedure and that surgery will not be scheduled until they have completed the requirements. It is a committment.
He emphasizes and has developed an aftercare program that includes support and a nutritionalist.
Very clearly and honestly and explained risks clearly.
Triple A rating for overall professionalism and compassion!! Surgical competence and bedside manner were excellent.
I certainly could not have asked for a better doctor, Dr. Hess is truly one in a million. From his quiet, easy-going non-judgemental nature to his fabulous staff, I couldn't have asked for anyone better. He gives you all of the information you need and is very upfront and honest with you. He has always answered every question I have ever asked of him, even if I felt a little stupid asking it myself. (Feel free to ask me about that!!!) Even though it is now a 2 and a half hour drive to see him (1 month after surgery we moved to NH), he is well worth it. I can't tell you which is better, his surgical competence or his bedside manner, I think both are excellent! The one thing I'm not crazy about is that he's almost always running late with his appointment, I mean like an hour late! Granted, it is a doctor's office but still, he's worth the wait.
I had my first initial consult in June with Dr. Hess. I was very impressed with him. He didn't make me feel uncomfortable on the contrary I felt relaxed and comfortable with him. He explained the procedure to me and asked me if I had any questions. Dr. Hess didn't talk a lot about the after care but he did mention a little about the aftercare in the initial consult. I found out a lot of information about the process from going on this web site. I rate Dr. Hess with a 10 overall because his program is very structured and organized.