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Berkeley Parents Network > Reviews > Health & Medical > Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery


Related page: Advice about Cosmetic Surgery
Questions
  • Acne Scars
  • Botox
  • Breast Augmentation/Reduction
  • Broken Nose
  • Burns
  • Cleft Lip and Palate
  • Cyst
  • Ear Piercing Repair
  • Ear Pin
  • Face Lift
  • Hand Surgery
  • Lipomas
  • Liposuction
  • Pierced ear repair
  • Rhinoplasty
  • Tattoo Removal
  • Tummy Tuck
  • A-Z List of Recommendations
  • Michael Cedars
  • Christopher Debacker
  • Alexander Ellenberg
  • Loren Eskanazi
  • William Hoffman
  • William Holmes
  • Shahin Javaheri
  • Richard Kahn
  • Elizabeth Lee
  • Harold McDonald
  • Usha Anne Rajagopal
  • Joseph Togba
  • James Yahr

  • Plastic Surgeons at Kaiser

  • Broken Nose

    Jan 2002

    I need to have surgery on my nose to repair damage I did when I broke it about 6 months ago. I was pregnant at the time so I could not go under general anesthesia to get it fixed before it set. Because it broke in 3 places, I will have to have it rebroken in those places to realign the septum etc. Essentially, I am now going to have a "nose job" because it has new bumps and is a bit lopsided (although my husband says I am the only one who is really aware of it). I saw Dr. Drury in Oakland when it first happened and was wondering if anyone has experience with him or his partner, Dr. Moyce for surgery of this kind. I am also wondering if I should consider going to a board certified plastic surgeon to fix it instead since Drs. Drury and Moyce are ENT specialists and not board certified plastic surgeons. My insurance is with Alta Bates Medical Group so it would help to have someone in that group. Three doctors I saw that are in that group are Michael Carstens, Richard Kahn and Shain Javaheri. Any thoughts on these doctors would be appreciated. I have seen the recommendations on the website already but they focus on hand surgery and skin issues rather than fixing the bones in the nose. Any experience with nose surgery that people have had would be great! Thanks.


    Recommendations received:
  • Richard Kahn
    i would go for the board certified plastic surgeon over an ENT doctor to do what sounds like reconstructive/plastic surgery. The NET doctors should excuse themselves and refer you to someone whose business is reconstructive surgery, especially if their part (in diagnosing the problem) is taken care of. i'd definitely get a referral from them, or from another doc if they won't give it, for a board certified plastic surgeon! (i have no personal experience w/plastic surgery, but my mom is a board-certified palstic surgeon in so. cal., and i hear her talk about issues like this often..) Jessica

    Burns

    Nov 2002

    I'll appreciate any recommendation regarding Plastic Surgery (M.D.) that has experience with burns. LK

    Recommendations received:

  • William Hoffman UCSF

    Cleft Lip and Palate

    June 2004

    Our daughter was born with a cleft lip and palate. She will be having her surgery at Kaiser (Oakland). We are in the process of choosing a plastic surgeon - Does anyone know a fantastic surgeon w/lots of experience with this specific type of surgery? We would be willing to travel to a location other than Oakland. Christina


    Regarding your daughter's cleft lip and palate, I would recommend Dr. Karin Vargervik, director of the UCSF Center for Craniofacial Anomalies. Dr. Vargervik is one of many in a team of specialists that helps with the physical, as well as the emotional needs of patients with cleft lips/palate. Here is information about Dr. Vargervik and the other specialists.

    http://www.ucsfhealth.org/childrens/cgi-bin/prd.cgi?action=DISPLAYDOCTOR&doctorid=1301

    http://www.ucsfhealth.org/childrens/medical_services/plassur/cranio/experts.html
    Marie


    Cyst

    March 2001

    For a small cyst, I need a plastic surgeon. My insurance covers Michael Carstens, Michael Cedars, James Langham, Harold McDonald, Andrew Moyce, Douglas Patton, Joseph Togba. Do you know about any of these??

    Recommendations received:

  • Michael Cedars
  • William Holmes
  • Harold McDonald
  • Andrew Moyce (ENT)

    Ear Piercing Repair

    May 2005

    I have double pierced ears and the first set of piercings are very stretched out. One side is much worse than the other, as the lobe on that side is not as thick. If I continue to wear heavy earrings, it is quite possible the holes with break throught the bottom of my lobes. I am considering having the first set of holes completely stitched up and closed. Has anyone ever heard of such a procedure? I checked once about 10 years ago and the Doctor told me it was a complicated procedure and quite costly, so I put it on the back burner. I am most bothered by it when I wear my hair up and my ears just look kinda funny with totally stretched out holes next to my earrings that reside in my second piercings. Has anyone heard of this kind of surgery? If so, how much would something like this cost? Any does anyone have any recommendations on who to go to for something like this? Juliap


    I had Dr. Michael Cedars repair my right earlobe 2 years ago with excellent results. I can now wear any type of earring. It cost around $450 and was not covered by insurance because it was considered a cosmetic procedure. I highly recommend him! Unfortunately I have lost his contact information, but am sure he is still practicing in Oakland. When I had my earlobe repaired, he was in the same office as Dr. Katie Rodan, of Pro Activ fame. Good luck! Suzi

    Lipomas

    Oct 2002

    I want to have some lipomas (benign fat tumors) removed. My insurance will not cover the procedure, which means that I'm not limited to surgeons who happen to accept my insurance. I've heard that some surgeons use liposuction for this type of surgery in order to minimize the scar. Can anyone recommend a surgeon who's good at removing lumps without leaving big scars?

    Recommendation received:

  • William Hoffman UCSF

    Rhinoplasty

    May 2004

    Can anyone recommend a good plastic surgeon in the Bay Area who specializes in nose jobs (rhinoplasty)? I've looked on the archives in the network and it seems there are a lot of listings for tummy tucks, but no nose jobs. Also, is it typical to have to pay for a consultation, even when you are still shopping around for surgeons and have not decided on whether to have the surgery? I called Dr. Elizabeth Lee's office to schedule a consultation (since she came highly recommended by many on the Parents Network) and to find out if she specialized in rhinoplasty; however, the receptionist told me that it costs $150 just for a one-hour consultation. I was somewhat shocked at this price, just because I thought a consultation was an info-gathering meeting. At this price, it seems like you have to have already decided on the surgeon and the surgery and that the consultation is more like a pre- operation meeting. I really don't want to spend this kind of money just to ask questions; I'd rather save it for the surgery. Please share your experiences. I've wanted this done for so long, but the whole process seems so daunting. Thank you for all your responses! Nose Like a Rhino


    I had my nose done 2 years ago and I am soooo glad I did it. My advice is DEFINITELY go for it!! I used Dr. Albert Chow in SF and really liked him. The surgery was simple and the recovery very easy. I believe that I did pay $150 for my first consultation with him, but that is put toward the surgery (which was around $5K) if you decide to do it. Most doctors will do that. In any case, during that first visit they took digital photos and can show you with a new nose, new chin, new eyes, etc. I thought it was worth the $150 just to play around with that! However, if you are concerned about the $150 I would just go to someone you are fairly sure about when you are feeling sure about doing the surgery, then you'll know you can apply the money towards that. I wish you luck - you won't regret it.
    I have been charged for consultations with landscape architects, attorneys, contractors, architects I would never expect to get someone's expertise for free especially considering that they have a family to feed, overhead and expenses too. I have heard great things about an Elizabeth Lee who is a doctor in Berkeley who is a hand surgeon. I don't know if she does nose jobs, though. Could or couldn't be the same one. A Fair Capitalist
    Nov 2003

    My Korean niece is 19 and she wants to get a ''nose job''. She has a few ''ice pick'' scars from previous bad acne on her nose, and is generally unhappy with the shape and size of her nose. Her mother and I have tried to dissuade her (the scars can somewhat be camouflaged with makeup) but she is determined and is saving all her part-time job money for the operation. Does anyone have a recommendation for a plastic surgeon that is skillful in working with ''Asian noses''? Since my niece is so set on getting her nose fixed, I would certainly want her to see and be treated by the best there is - someone who has skill and experience in Asian noses (I have heard this is important and may be a specialty in itself). Also, someone who can treat her nicely and sympathetically. Our greatest fear is that she will go to someone who doesn't have the skill just because the price is right. We are willing to help her have this done right, and have looked through the AAPS and the Board Certified website, but it's like looking for a needle in a haystack. Thank you. Florinda


    Dr. James Romano (www.jromano.com), in San Francisco, is an excellent plastic surgeon who does Asian noses. I saw many pictures where he had ''popped out'' cheek bones and noses on Korean and Pilipino faces. I also met a very young Chinese woman who had had every bit of her face done: chin, jaw, cheekbones and eyes. She looked like a fashion model: I found it extremely disturbing, and went with a different surgeon. I have no doubts about the man's skill and competancy, but question certain of his aesthetic assumptions. If she goes in, make sure to accompany her. It's very seductive, having lots of people examine your face, be kind and then show you pictures of your idealized self. If she has her acne scars removed, that might be enough to make her feel better. Romano's office does cosmetic dermatology. He's also really expensive. You are very kind to help her do things correctly, even if you don't think it's a good idea. Chinless in Oakland

    A-Z Recommendations for Plastic/Cosmetic Surgeons


    Michael Cedars

    Feb 2005

    Dr. Michael Cedars for Tummy Tuck Operation?
    After consulting with a few cosmetic surgeons in the area regarding an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), I have tentatively chosen Dr. Michael Cedars. I reviewed the UCB postings on Dr. Cedars and they all relate to his experience with breast-related surgeries (enhancements, reductions, etc.). Has anyone had recent experience with Dr. Cedars specifically for tummy tucks? Was it a positive experience? Your comments will be greatly appreciated. Much obliged

    [no replies received]

    Re: Considering breast reduction - any recommendations? (July 2003)
    After years of hesitation and self-torture, I did it: at 50, I had a breast lift and reduction. I researched for the right surgeon all over the place, in depth. Found, I believe, the very best: kind,wonderfully professional, sensitive,a great sense of female psychology. Beautiful hands, beautiful eyes. Not a prima Dona, a true gentleman. Don't even look elsewhere. He is right here in Oakland: Dr. Michael G Cedars, (510) 763-2662. Now, almost a year later, my breasts look quite fantastic. I look slender, and younger. dh

    Re: Breast Lift (March 2002)
    Dr. Michael Cedars did my breast reduction back in 1994. He is affiliated with Alta Bates and has offices in Berkeley and Orinda (I think -- somewhere out there). At the time he was ''the'' plastic surgeon around -- the one all the doctors' wives went to. He was absolutely great. The results of the surgery are fantastic, and he was very sensitive to my modesty issues. He even badgered the insurance company until they paid for it. Good luck! Re: Pierced Ear Repair (Feb 2001)
    Just had my ear fixed after it finally tore through after many years of too-heavy earrings. In order to keep the same hole, there is a reconstructive process which costs the same as stitching it up and making a new hole. It cost $90 for consultation & $350 for the proceedure. In and out of the office in an hour. Dr. Michael Cedars in Oakland (just moved from Berkeley) 763-2662. Lisa Re: Cyst (March 2001)
    When my son was in 2nd grade he was hit in the face with a tennis racket. His nose could be described as being in two pieces. Our wonderful pediatrician arranged for him to go to Michael Cedars and be repaired. He is 19 now and I can honestly say that his nose is perfect. There is no scar. In addition to doing a great job, he was very nice to both my son and I (and I at least was a little stressed). Dibsy


    Christopher Debacker

    Re: Botox (Aug 2002)
    one of the doctors that i work for does botox injections. he is christopher debacker, m.d. our phone number is 886-3937 and we are located in hayward. several coworkers have had the injections. there is a little discomfort and possible headache- y feeling. the injections are temporary and must be repeated every 3-4 months. botox does paralyze the muscle injected. the idea is that if you do botox (on a regular basis) it prevents wrinkles and fine lines from forming permanently. you can target different spots. suzie

    Alexander Ellenberg

    Re: Considering breast reduction - any recommendations? (July 2003)
    I had a breast reduction back in 1980 (!) and it was one of the the best things I ever did. My doctor was really great, but he is in San Jose I think. His name is Dr. Alexander Ellenberg. If you don't have luck finding a closer Dr., you should look him up.

    Loren Eskanazi

    Re: Liposuction (March 2002)
    Loren Eskanazi in SF was an artist before she became a plastic surgeon. She is highly recommended and does excellent work. She specializes in breast reconstruction, but does all types of plastic surgery. JK

    William Hoffman

    Re: Burns (Nov 2002)
    An excellent plastic surgeon is William Hoffman, M.D. at UCSF--he does cranio-facial work as well as plastics on children and adults. He is a superlative surgeon and a really nice guy, and I think an ideal place to start. He performed minor surgery on my child for a cyst, and there is virtually no scar.

    Re: Ear Pin (July 2002)
    I would recommend Dr. William Hoffman, M.D. at UCSF. He is a ped. plastic/cranio-facial surgeon who is ''it,'' in the field of ped. cosmesis, trauma, and congenital abnormalities. He excised a benign cyst (pea and a half size) from my nine-year old daughter's lower cheek. He did a beautiful job, and because she had to undergo general anaesthesia we were relieved to have some of the best ped. anaesthesiologist(s) in the country working on her. Even though many competent plastic surgeons could have excised my daughter's little cyst, we chose Hoffman because there are nerves in the area of excision.

    We also had the good fortune of seeing some of Dr. Hoffman's work--a child on whom he constructed a forehead, another child on whom he constructed an outer ear, and his receptionist on whom he had done beautiful! lidwork--very natural. We are a physician-family so I feel that we can judge. Additionally, we rec'd Dr. Hoffman's name from physicians in L.A. and Boston, as well as from a local dermatologist and pediatrician. Great endorsements, no?

    Finally, this is elective surgery you are talking about. I wouldn't let price guide your choice; it will be expensive You are not only talking about major surgery but also your child being in what amounts to a ''drug-induced coma'' for the duration of the surgery.

    I applaud you for getting this done for your child. I know someone with a lot! of money who will not let her 12 year old son, thus far, get his ears done when he's older. His ears are so profoundly stuck out, it pains me, and he has been teased about them. She says that she wants him not to be so stuck on the way he looks (?), so good for you.

    Tell Dr. Hoffman, if you use him, that the Pascals recommended him. He's superlative. Danna

    Re: Lipomas (Oct 2002)
    You want an excellent plastic surgeon, esp. if lipoma is large or in a ''cosmetic'' place--William Hoffman, M.D. and/or Dr. Mathes at UCSF are both superlative. I have seen their work. Good luck


    William Holmes

    Re: Cyst (March 2001)
    My 4-month-old daughter just had her hands operated on by Dr. William Holmes, who is in Michael Carstens' office. This was less than a week ago and they seem to be healing fine. Dr. Holmes is friendly and professional. Liz

    Shahin Javaheri

    July 2004

    Does anyone have any experience with the plastic surgeon Shahin Javaheri? I need to have a cyst removed and would like to have some feedback on this individual or another plastic surgeon that is recommended. thanks.


    I work with Dr. Javaheri and wholeheartedly recommend him and his work. He is an excellent, caring physician. anonymous
    I have known Dr Javaheri for many years, and have seen his results in his care for my own patients. I would not hesitate to see him myself for cosmetic or medically necessary surgical care. He is well trained in both plastic surgery and ENT surgery. He is personable and gives his patients skilful and compassionate care. a fellow physician

    Richard Kahn

    Re: Finished having kids, seriously considering breast reduction (March 2003)
    I just had a breast lift yesterday! I am in fine form and my wonderful surgeon is Dr. Richard Kahn in Oakland. He has the most wonderful bedside manner(he even called me last night to check on me) has a great rapport with the surgical staff (The Surgery Center) and doesn't let his ego get in the way of his work. I am also a doctor and I didn't tell him until after the intial consult so I could be sure he would explain things in an easy to understand way, and he did. Also, he was voted the best plastic surgeon in the East Bay by Diablo magazine.I completely agree with them! Call him before you do anything. I forgot to give Dr. Richard Kahn's number; 510 451 5700
    -happy with my new boobies and the artist who created them

    Re: Broken Nose (Jan 2002)
    Dr. Richard Kahn is a great surgeon. I have used his services. I would make an appointment and look at the photos of has taken of similar surgeries. He is very conservative and honest. You are fortunate if your insurance covers him, mine didn't and I had to pay the bill. Good luck. Joyce


    Harold McDonald

    Re: Considering breast reduction - any recommendations? (July 2003)
    A friend offers the following advice : Plastic surgeon: Dr. Harold McDonald, Berkeley
    Recovery for me was overnight in hospital and 1 week off work. Best side effect: lovely small breasts. Worst side effect: unable to lie in bed comfortably to get a good night's sleep. It turns out that there is a nerve that encircles the torso above the ribcage/below the breasts that can be 'disturbed' during the surgery. As it recovers, you can experience a tightness that is quite noticeable at night when you lie down. I lost a lot of sleep and it resulted in a bout of acute fibromyalgia. But nothing would discourage me from doing it again. Small breasts are worth it!

    Re: Cyst (March 2001)
    A while ago I had Dr. McDonald do a skin graft from the back of my ear to my nose where a basal cell issue had developed and was removed. He was quite good. I particularly liked that he explained things so thoroughly. He was absolutely right that the ear would hurt far more than the nose! I was negatively impressed by his office staff, however. Nori


    Usha Anne Rajagopal

    Re: Laser hair removal on dark skin? (10/04)
    I also have dark skin so when I went of a few clinics in San Francisco they told me laser hair removal would not be very effective. Then I went to Dr. Usha Rajagopal at 490 Post St. (suite 430) in San Francisco.

    The doctor is east-indian herself, so she specializes in hair removal for dark skin types. I found out that there is a special type of laser called a Lyra laser that works on dark skin types - and that only a few doctors in the area have that type of laser.

    My experience was great - her staff were all very caring and knowledgable, and they were open evenings and weekends. I ended up having laser hair removal on my chin, lip and underarms and it only took me 8 treatments. I've had a little bit of growth on my upper lip - but I just go back once every 3 or 4 months and get it zapped again. It's been 3 years and I am so satisfied.

    Anyways, you should check out Dr. Rajagopal's website - it explains the laser proccess better than I can. Its http://www.sfcosmeticsurgery.com/procedures/laserprocedures/laserhairremoval.htm

    Also, they're phone number is (415) 392-3333. They are right by union square so it's very easy to get to - you can take the Muni to Powell St. Station and just walk up Powell to post.

    Good luck! Kristiane


    Joseph Togba

    July 2004

    I am interested in hearing of anyone's experience, good or otherwise, with plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph Togba of Oakland. Thanks.


    My daughter fell while at daycare and required stitches to her face...we were referred over to Dr. Togba as her pediatrician did not want to stitch this injury. It was after 5PM by this time and Dr. Togba waited until we could get over to his office. He was very kind and took the time to do it correctly. His staff was just as great.. If I needed plastic surgery I would use him again -- his care and quality were excellent. BTW-his bedside manor although not a major concern, is quiet and reserved.

    James Yahr

    Re: Considering breast reduction - any recommendations? (July 2003)
    It has been many years (1986) since I had my reduction surgery but I had a wonderful doctor. His name is James Yahr, and last I heard he was based out of Danville. I was able to breast feed quite easily as he made sure my milk ducts were still in tact. As I recall, it took several months(maybe 6) for a complete recovery...meaning no tingling sensations or soreness of any kind (the first six weeks are not comfortable--riding in a car can even be a challenge)and the scarring will take at least a year to have no redness....like any other. The only complication I had was i was allergic to the internal stiching used (the kind of stiches that desolve) and so a had a little infection...but of course that would have occurred no matter who the dr. was! He was fabulous....good luck!
    ps. in spite of the uncomfortableness, I would do it again..... anon
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