Thomas Clark Bariatric Surgeon MS, MD, FACS

My first impression of Dr. Clark was that he was a very nice, personable man. Very straight and very knowledgable. When I decided to go forward with WLS, he was surgeon that I wanted to go with. He is highly recommended. My PCP recommended him and another doctor that I know recommended him also. After visiting his website and his office, I knew I was making the right decision. The office staff is very friendly and gladly answer any questions that you may have. I look forward to having my first consult with Dr. Clark.

My first impression of WLSC was extremely reassuring. Everyone was very respectful and informative. It was interesting to find that one of the women who works there had GB surgery by my surgeon. It was great to hear her side of everything. Dr. Clark was very upfront with the pros and cons of the surgery. He made absolutely sure that we understood how the surgery worked, how he chose to operate, what the recovery time is expected to be, and that we understood that this surgery is NOT a fix for anything, it's simply a tool used to facilitate weight loss. I was reassured by the fact that WLSC stressed the importance of pt. education prior to surgery so that after the surgery you have the tools to make sure you succeed. At first I was leery of attending a seminar to learn about such a serious surgery. But, once I arrived, I understood why they offered a seminar instead of a 1-on-1. There were a lot of people there. We all had the same questions and concerns. In Dr. Clark's case, educating the masses seems most appropriate.
I'll answer each of the questions asked by ObesityHelp.com in order below:
What was your first impression of him/her?
My initial impression was one of apprehension, but, once I listened and began to get to know Dr. Clark, I was comforted by his knowledge on the surgery, as well as his concern that we all understood the risks and benefits. He answered all questions openly and honestly, not shying away from a single question or subject.

How did your impression change over time?
Over time, I became more confident in him and in his staff. He wasn't just some Dr. out there trying to get rich by preying on fat people, assuaging their fears with lies. I feel he truly cares for all his patients, and he sets up a business geared towards my success and education, both pre & post operatively.

How would you describe his/her office staff?
Thus far, the staff has been wonderful! I don't foresee any changes in the future.

What did you like least about him/her?
Nothing. I have yet to have my one on one consultation, but, that's the next step.

What should future patients know about him/her?
Dr. Clark and the whole staff of WLSC truly seems to care about your health and success. The best recommendation I can offer is, as a medical professional myself, I trust him and have recommended him to quite a few people all ready.

How much does he/she emphasize aftercare?
All the time! In order to fully comprehend the scope of this surgery, you've got to understand the aftercare. It's emphasized in almost every aspect of patient care they offer.

Does he/she have a structured aftercare program?
Somewhat. Like most things, this program/surgery can only be as successful in relation to how much you put into it. They offer groups, education, recommendations, ect.. You have to be the one to follow up, but, it's truly worth the while to take advantage of the community.

How did he/she address the risks of surgery?
Good Lord! In every possible way. From the simplest things like pain management & passing gas, to complications of the surgery while in the ICU and down the road, to vitamin deficiency & dumping syndrome, ad nauseam....

How would you rate him/her overall?
So far, everyone rates to notch.

Which is better, surgical competence, bedside manner, or are both great?
To be a truly good surgical doctor, you must have both. How can you have good bedside manner if you're not a competent surgeon and all your patients die? If you're a great surgeon, but have horrid bedside manner, then you've only fixed one half of that person, albeit the most important half. Still, great bedside manner that assures you all is well is immeasurable. Peace of mind is such a huge part of starting the healing process.

Dr. Clark is the sweetest guy. He is also a top notch cutter. He has great staff and a bedside manner that they ought to teach in schools. Can't say enough good about the man or his practice. Suzie, Beth, Dawn, amd Cat. just to name a few are great. Thank you all so much.

Dr. Clark is the best, the staff at WLSC are great. Nancy has been great and very helpful. I wonder if anyone there ever has a bad day, because it does not seem they do.

So far I've only been to Dr. Clark's seminar and had my psych eval. Dr. Clark seems so sincere and caring. I felt comfortable with him right away. The entire staff is so nice and friendly. I get to talk to Dawn quite a bit as she makes appointments for other patients with the cardiologists that I work with. She's really great. So far I have nothing but wonderful things to say about Dr. Clark and his staff.

I have only attended the seminar at Weight Loss Center of Hampton Roads so far. Dr Clark was so relaxed and personable that I felt very at ease with him immediately. His staff is so on top of things....and great personalities. I had set up orientation/seminars at several different places but after meeting everyone there I decided that was the place for me. I was planning on having this done laproscopically but after meeting him and knowing he doesn't do lap, I still plan on sticking with him. He was very honest and straight forward. Also..I have heard nothing but positive things about him from previous patients. He does have a very structured aftercare which I am planning to take full advantage of.

Wonderful and caring doctor. His staff is great and on top of things.

Very caring and supportive surgeon. Takes time to explain everything in detail and answer questions. Dr Clarks' practice has a comprehensive and structured before and aftercare program. Although I was not thrilled with getting all the testing done before surgery, I can now see the validity of it. I would and have recommended Dr. Clark and his program to others! I am very happy with the program and the way things are going.

Prior to meeting Dr. Clark, I had heard alot of really positive things about him and his staff. I was drawn to not only his ability to perform, but the fact that he had an aftercare program that consisted of more than periodic visits.

However, after meeting him I felt that the positive comments did not do him, or the program, justice.

He not only took the time to explain the surgery with me, but allowed me full opportunity to ask any questions I had. He did a very good job at validating any concerns I had, and calming my nerves. Explaining that my concerns were normal. His bedside manner was outstanding as well.

I have found his staff to be outstanding and above anything I could have expected. They are not only knowledgeable, but project a very positive attitude in how they deal with their clients. Each one acting as a cheerleader.

I went through several programs to find the one I was the most comfortable with. I knew after my 1st appointment that Dr. Clark was it! I cannot say enough for him or his staff. I didn't feel judged or put out of place because of my weight. The atmosphere is very embraceing, encouraging and motivating to succeed. Dr. Clark has the best bedside manner I have ever experienced!! He is a very compassionate person and you can tell that he doesn't settle for less than the best he can give you.He thouroughly expresses and explains all risks before surgery so that you are completely aware of everything.
He continuously encourages and stresses the importance of taking care of yourself for life and his office provides all the tools to help. They have a dietician and Psychiatrist available as well to help.
Dr. Clark has helped and continues to help me with the best change of my life!!

I would recommend him to anyone!!