"I can not truly express in words how thankful I am to Dr. Schoen and his team at the University of Colorado Hospital Surgical Weight Loss Center. They are absolutely a world class group of medical professionals who are committed to helping obese individuals, like me, regain their lives. In addition to Dr. Schoen, I would also like to personally thank Wendy Mazursky, a tremendous physician’s assistant and Kelly Elliot, a nutritionist extraordinaire.
My first impression of the team as a whole was they were much more interested in providing a quality service than in rapidly growing the practice. A little over two years ago, I had an experience with Denver’s “high volume” bariatric surgical practice which somewhat jaded me on weight loss surgery (WLS). My perception was there was lot’s of marketing hype but little factual data being communicated. I dropped the thought of WLS until a year later when my wife pointed out an article in the Denver Post about Dr. Schoen. I was impressed by Dr. Schoen’s honest comments about the medical risks associated with the surgery as well as the overall commitment required by the patients. I regained my interest in WLS after my initial consult with Dr. Schoen. In the very thorough consult, he educated me on all aspects of the surgery. In addition, he communicated what he expected of me prior to and subsequent to the surgery. His direct, factual, reality based message was very effective. This education based, no nonsense style permeates the practice and is, in my opinion, what sets this team apart from the other WLS practices.
The surgery went very well and I have had no complications to date or for that matter, much pain. Based upon my experience, I would have to say nothing less than Dr. Schoen is a brilliant surgeon. I also appreciate the fact he took the time to ease my fears prior to surgery and he checked on me regularly during my stay at the hospital. Brilliant surgeon with a great bedside matter! What more could you ask for?
The University of Colorado Hospital Surgical Weight Loss Center has a very structured aftercare program. Dr. Schoen and Wendy have kept close tabs on my physical condition post surgery. Kelly leads monthly post-surgery support group meetings. I have not yet attended one since I am only three weeks post-op, although I plan to attend my first meeting later this month. The weight loss center also has several physical therapists that run a fitness center which is specifically designed for WLS patients. I have met once with a physical therapist and have an appointment later this month to develop an individualized fitness plan.
In summary - am I glad I selected Dr. Schoen and his team perform the surgery? Absolutely!
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