"I investigated plastic surgery after losing almost 200 lbs with my VSG. I interviewed 3 plastic surgeons in my area, since ease of follow up was an important consideration in my choice of a surgeon. I had heard of Dr. Mariotti and the other 2 surgeons by way of other patients in my WLS group, and attended one of his informational talks to our group. Of the three surgeons I interviewed, Dr. Mariotti was the only one who performed the procedure I was interested in - a Circumferential Belt Lipectomy. I also wanted to do 2 other procedures at the same time, a breast lift and breast augmentation. His office and support staff were excellent. Everyone was professional and courteous, and never did I get the impression that I was being rushed or spoken down to. My first consultation lasted over an hour, and Dr. Mariotti and his assistant Sarah were thorough in answering all my questions. What impressed me the most was how many procedures he had performed on massive weight loss patients- because of his extensive experience, he was able to tell me- "You have a body type similar to this patient, her outcome looks like this" ( and showed me photos of the results). Or, " You've lost more weight than this woman and she is short waisted, your outcome will be slightly different from hers in this way" and showed me more photos. He clearly explained the risks and benefits of performing the surgeries at the same time, and invited me back for more consultation time if I needed it. After I had interviewed the other 2 plastic surgeons, and months later, I emailed some questions to the office and was invited back in for more face time with Dr. Mariotti. He patiently answered more questions and referred me to medical literature that was more recent than I had been given at the other offices, and explained how he minimizes the risks that prevented the other surgeons from performing the procedure I desired. I have a career in the medical field, I was given straightforward honest answers and never was I promised something he could not deliver. I scheduled surgery with him the following month and had an amazingly terrific experience ( considering what I signed up for!). The pre operative area is kept warmer than normal, and pneumatic pressure pants put on the patient in order to help prevent blood clots. My nurse who cared for me overnight was outstanding- her care and empathy for my comfort level impressed me so much ( and I've had ALOT of nurses through the 13 surgical procedures I've had!). Dr. Mariotti uses adjunctive pain relief - an OnQ Pain Blocker that kept me comfortable for the first 5 days post op to where I was up and moving the night of my 6.5 hour surgery, and walking upright the next day. The purpose and function of the drains placed at the time of surgery were explained to me ahead of time and I felt no angst at having to handle them. If Sarah handled a follow up appointment, she always asked if I had any questions for Dr. Mariotti. And oh, my results! I mean that's what's really the most important thing here, isn't it? I'd take the crappiest bedside manner in the world if it meant superior results...but you do not have to experience that with this office. Instead you get a caring, professional, experienced crew who knows how to work together and support a very talented surgeon and assistant. The real question is- would I return to this office for more plastic surgery if needed? The answer is a resounding YES. As someone who 2 years ago could not look into the mirror without shame, to a confident woman who is proud and amazed at her flat tummy, beautiful breasts and minimal scars, I say Thank you, Thank you, Thank you."
