Clara Maass Medical Center Hospital

Dr Ballem did my lap band surgery on 4/1/2014. Since then unfortunately I have some ups and downs with my weight loss journey. Through it all Dr Ballem and his entire staff have been there for me, supporting me and encouraging me to not give up and continue on my journey. Dr Ballem is a great surgeon, very kind, compassionate and always very honest with his patients. The staff are also very kind, compassionate and always there for a quick pep talk if that's what you need or to encourage you to continue no matter what happens. I use fitness pal and the nutritionist from Dr Ballem's office helps by following me on this application and giving me weekly feedback and suggestions. She's been absolutely fantastic!

What a great doctor and a great program. I highly recommend going through the process with him - you won't be dissapointed.

Dr. Ballem has been great. Their office is well organzed. Christine the office manager got my nutrition, behavior and sleep study appointments set right away and emailed along with the paperwork I needed to bring to each appointment. Velda the dietician was great and I felt fully informed and prepared. Christine took care of all the insurance paperwork and I didn't have to lift a finger. Some of the hospital nurses were not very helpful so be sure to speak up if you need anything in the hospital. Also take pain meds to the end so taking the drain out will be as painless as possible. Hunterdon's day center where I came into surgery was great both professional and personally supportive.

I was set on one particular surgery, I had researched for years and every surgeon I went to said No you need this surgery ( RNY ) and I kept telling them No. Wait and waited then one day came across the discussion with one of my Doctors and he told me to see Dr Ballem. After my visit and our talk about what I wanted we set a date. He agreed with me on what surgery I wanted. He said its your body you decide. He can only advise. So I decided on the band then I had my surgery and now I am over 100lbs lighter. I feel better, I move more.... He handled everything fantastically. I had no regrets or problems with Dr. Ballem he is polite, respectful and does not lead you around. The only issue and it really isnt a issue is that he is only there on Monday and Wednesday to see patients after surgery :( I work 12hr days so I cannot get in to see him like I should. But I am going to resolve that on my own.
Thanks Doc!! I feel great!!!

Dr. Ballem is a great surgeon!! This lap band procedure was my 2nd surgery with him! I would recommend him to anyone! The doctor and his staff make any surgery painless!!

Thank you!

I met Dr. Ballem via a friend. I wouldn't have met him otherwise. I'm glad she invited me to her consult. I couldn't have a more caring, good natured Surgeon/Dr. His bed-side manner is wonderful. Before having the surgery, I had chronic back pain and my knees and achilles tendons were aching all the time. I spent 85% of my time at the corner store purchasing packets of Advil(PM). The first week after the surgery 11/04/2010 I lost not only 9 lbs but also my back pain & knee aches.

I don't regret the decision. Its been 1 month. I can spend more time with my son in the park because I have more energy. I'm lookding forward, and am excited about what's ahead.