"I had the advantage over most patients; I work in surgery and had the opportunity to observe Dr. Zeni's performance before he ever knew I was considering bariatric surgery. I was able to see his technique, his behavior toward both patients and staff, and verify his patient success and his complication rate from the inside/out. IMO, Dr. Zeni is technically very good, skilled beyond bariatrics, and also treats his patients with caring and professional courtesy. He's not a hot-head or a cowboy, and can be flexible. His discussions are open, frank, knowledgeable and informative. He provides info and recommends, but didn't force an opinion on me. I know he does the RNY, VSG, and lap-band; I've never seen him do the duodenal switch. I don't know the highest BMI pt he's done. He was able to discuss all three surgeries, their risks and benefits, and research on outcome statstics to me during my appointments with him.rnrnAnd I can't say enough about his office staff! Paula Magid (Director) is a VERY knowledgeable, caring and supportive person, who is post-RNY herself. She speaks with both personal knowledge and professional experience - and she is the nicest person you could ever meet. She's cheerleader, advocate, sister and mother-confessor in one (but I never said she was a saint - she's human, too, which is why everyone loves her). And Angela is a doll! Always helpful, smiling and encouraging.rnrnPaula, Angela and Tamara (nutritionist) conduct a monthly support group that is open to all WLS patients in the southeast Michigan area. From pre-op education, conducting research as part of a multi-center outcomes study, to the stress on the importance of follow-up care and support group attendance, Dr. Zeni and his office staff are clear in the way they discuss, prepare and educate patients considering and undergoing WLS. They are also undertaking steps to be designated as a Bariatric Center of Excellence, which to me just highlights how seriously they are committed to quality care. rnrnMy care at St. Mary Mercy Hospital was great - but I can't absolutely guarantee that it wasn't partly because the staff might have known I was an employee. But the hospital had modified a couple rooms specifically bariatric/obese patients - nice. Although the decor could have been a little brighter!rnrnIn a nutshell - I wouldn't have made my initial appointment with ANY surgeon if I wasn't willing to trust him with my life (NOT easy to do). After going through the process and seeing everything from the PATIENT's side of the table, I can say I am VERY satisfied with my decision and highly recommend Dr. Zeni and the Michigan Bariatric Institute to anyone considering WLS. "
"Staff was wonderfully accomodating, friendly, caring. Private room for Bari pts was a definite PLUS. Staff on 5 East was terrific. Pre-post-op care was terrific; OR and anesthetists were great. Radiology personnel were very kind. Only one complaint - a day shift nurse (not mine) parked her trolly right outside my room and talked all day - on the phone, to students, etc., about other patients, pt care, etc. - loud and unneeded. My nurse/PCA tried to keep the door closed. Not a biggie, just annoying. Otherwise, terriffic!"
