"My first impression of Dr. Alvarez was that he genuinely cares about his patients' needs. I sent him a long list of questions prior to my surgery (via email) and he responded back a day later, answering each and every one. He also gave me his phone number to call him if I had any further quesitons or concerns!rnrnMy impression of him over time changed to include \"professional\" as well. When you meet him the first time, he is dressed impeccably in a suit and tie, he offers to carry your luggage for you into the clinic, his office is lovely and comfortable, and he instantly makes you feel safe and at ease. The staff are equally professional and friendly - always trying to ensure your comfort - they seem to genuinely care about you as their patient.rnrnWhat I liked best about Dr. Alvarez was that he was regularly coming in to my room after surgery to check on me and see how I was doing - both nights my husband and I were in hospital, he came in to check on us well after \"closing time\" (i.e. 7pm or later). He would check on us first, ask about our comfort level, if we were having any concerns, and sit on the end of our beds like a friend and chat with us for a bit. You never really felt like he had anywhere else to be at that particular moment because he was never rushing through his visits and trying to get away quickly so that he could tend to other patients - we felt like his ONLY patients when he was with us.rnrnI think future patients should know that Dr. Alvarez has an amazing bed-side manner, he's professional, open and honest, and he makes you feel like you've gained not only a wonderful surgeon, but also a good friend. Dr. Alvarez ensures that you know everything there is to know about your aftercare - making sure you understand and that you understand the importance of \"sticking\" to the aftercare program.rnrnDr. Alvarez was very forthcoming when I asked him about the various risks involved with the surgery, by giving me his \"track record\" and statistics for the VSG procedures he has performed.rnrnOverall, I would rate Dr. Alvarez a 10 (times 10)!!! His surgical competence and bedside manner are above par and second-to-none, and I would recommend him to not only my dear friends and family, but to anyone who is considering embarking on this wonderful journey of weight loss with a VSG!rnrnTHANK YOU SO MUCH DR. ALVAREZ!rnrnMy husband and I are forever in your debt - you've given us the chance to have a healthier future - and we're LOVING it!!!rnrnMichelle and KylernBritish Columbia, Canada"
