"Dr. Birkmeyer and Finks worked together on my surgery. It could not have gone more smoothly.
They informed me of everything they were going to do before the surgery.
Some people think that the U of M program is too "strict", but they give you all of the knowledge you need before going into this.
I hate to generalize, but most surgeons I have met don't have a really outgoing bedside manner. Dr. B is no exception. But he has surrounded himself with a staff of very personable and friendly professionals, so I felt very well taken care of.
ETA-12/09
Dr. Birkmeyer is pretty out of touch with his patients. He is only present on the day of surgery.
I read that he was taking part in a study of bariatric patients and their outcomes of surgery. When I started gaining weight rapidly and there was no logical explanation for it, Dr. Birkmeyer didn't even speak with me. I asked for a scope to see if any changes in my pouch or stoma had occured over 3 years. I had no restriction at all. I was told by staff that they wouldn't do a scope, because "So what if something changed?"
I don't feel like Dr. Birkmeyer is in touch with his patients at all. He leaves his staff to deal with them and has no follow up."
"Patti understood all of my issues with food and nutrition. She made adjusting to my new WLS lifestyle so much easier. She never judged me when I was mad at her during the pre-op diet! I could contact her any time via phone or email with questions, or just a shoulder to cry on. I would recommend her to anyone needing some help with diet and nutrition."
"I have the utmost confidence in U of M. Because it's a teaching hospital, you will have a lot of "extra" people around, but I think that's a good thing."
