"I found him to be no nonsense and very clinical - not overly warm. He made sure I was aware that lifelong diet and exercise changes were necessary to make the surgery successful. The office staff were very friendly. We discussed some of the risks of surgery, but not in depth. He gave me materials to read, including a pre-operative written exam with several questions regarding all the risks I have ever read about and some I hadn't. I go back for another visit after I see the psychologist at which time we will discuss the exam, etc.
I had my second meeting with Dr. Tiensenga today. He came across as warmer and more friendly. He know's I have done a lot of independent research, and so he did not cover very much in depth with unless I asked questions.
Dr. Tiesenga's surgical competence is excellent and my surgery went well. His bedside manner improves with each visit, and his office staff, Jenny in particular, are great. My only complaint is that his program is new and they are having major problems getting a dietician program set up properly, and there isn't currently one for me to see. I wish all the wrinkles for this had been ironed out before my surgery was done.
7/16/02 update - Dr. T's program is improving - they've started monthly support groups and have hired a new psychologist and dietician. The dietician has a background with diabetes and not WLS, so she's learning still, but this is much better than not having one at all."
"I really like the Designer Whey chocolate protein drink if blended as follows: 1 scoop DW powder, 4 oz skim milk, a few ice cubes, a teaspoon of instant decaf coffee and a packet of splenda! It tastes just like the frozen mocha drinks I used to order out at coffee shops and has about 20 g. protein. I don't care for it as much if made plain with just the milk."
"My care was excellent, however I was practically self sufficient by the morning of the 2nd day. The nursing staff was excellent, but very burdened with many patients. I didn't often call for the nurse, but it sometimes took 10-15 minutes before they could get to me when I did. The only other issue was that the hospital in general was not very good at giving my family any information either during or after surgery. Due to an emergenecy, I didn't have surgery until 4;30 pm. My sister was there and was told when surgery was complete and told to wait so she could see me in recovery. The waiting room closed at 10:00 and someone different told her she had to leave and she eventually found someone who told her I would be in ICU not recovery. After 2 hours of trying to find me, they only let her in to see me for 30 seconds.
The other major issue was that the hospital dietician saw me before I was released and gave me incorrect info on the diet I am supposed to follow. They are new to WLS and don't have all the kinks worked out yet."
"Dr. Papadakis is an excellent PCP, although I believe she is still a resident. Being in an HMO, I have changed dostors numberous times and have found her to be the most patient, caring and understanding dr. i have ever dealt with on any issue, including my decision to have WLS."
