Yijun Chen Bariatric Surgeon MD
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 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.
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.