Patient Testimonials, Stories & Videos

Patient Videos

Patient Stories

Occipital Neuralgia Patient Thanks Dr. Kaufman

Botox Treatments by NJ Plastic Surgeons Help Relieve Migraine Pain

Hope for Phrenic Nerve Injuries

Patient Regains Hand Function Following Complex Reconstructive Procedure

NJ Neuropathy Experts Explain Neuropathy Causes and Treatments

Patient Testimonials

“I wanted to somehow find a way to say “thank you” for the integral part you have played in my life this past year. I decided the best way I could say thank you, was to simply say it.

Working in healthcare myself, I realize how much mundane and “everyday” the plights of others can become. On a daily basi,s we treat people who are going through some of the most difficult times in their lives and since it is so commonplace for us, it would be easy to make these patients feel as though we don’t care.“

Janice S.
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“Dreadfully, the right side of my face was paralyzed during a surgical procedure. My facial features were distorted and out of place. I looked hideous. My right eye and mouth did not function properly or comfortably. I felt ruined, hopeless and depressed- especially after I was told my facial damage was permanent. I wanted to hide from others.

I can never thank Dr. Matthew Kaufman enough for restoring so much of me to me.
MY FACE
MY SELF IMAGE
AND THE HOPE- I HAD LOST.“

Heidi L. Bowman

“Over the past several months, I’ve thought about and tried writing this on numerous occasions. It seemed nothing ever justified the gratitude I feel, or how deeply indebted I am to you for saving my life. I say that because I was at a crossroads in life, and if we had never crossed paths, I know I wouldn’t be here today.

I was in a car accident on March 3, 2007, exactly six months before my wedding, and everything changed. I was rear-ended at a red light on Route 6 in Dickson City, PA. I went to Mercy Hospital in Scranton after the accident, where they checked me out, pushed some pills, and sent me on my way with scheduled follow-ups.“

Kristen Kuczenski
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“Most of all we really thank Dr. Rose for helping Frank. After all these years of trying just about everything, we had almost given up hope. So we are very thankful that Dr. Rose was able to help us out.“

- E.S.

E.S. is the wife of a patient who suffered crippling neuropathy in his feet.

“I had a paralyzed diaphragm due to a surgery in which my phrenic nerve was damaged. It left me in a wheelchair and unable to do little more than just take care of my personal needs. Due to Dr Kaufman’s skill, I was given my life back and am enjoying my family and activities once again. It makes me so happy to know that others can experience this “miracle,” and I am trying to get the word out about this surgery. By the way, I am 71 years old, so it’s never too late!“

- Barbara

Barbara, whose surgery was on September 3, 2010, is out of the wheelchair and doing well. Of Dr. Kaufman’s nearly 70 phrenic nerve surgeries (as of 12/2012), Barbara was #14.

“I first met Dr. Matthew Kaufman years ago as an intensive care nurse taking care of one of his phrenic nerve stimulator patients post op (who did very well). Three years ago, I started a healthier lifestyle and lost 105 lbs. A year ago I had robotic abdominal surgery to remove a gastric tumor– fortunately benign. But the combination of the surgery with the loose skin from weight loss created very painful abdominal adhesions and cramping. My surgeon sent me to Dr. Kaufman. I am so glad he did, because the results are incredible! He was able to repair the adhesions and remove the excess abdominal skin. While I was at it, I had a breast lift and implants. At 55 years old, I never thought I could look this good! I highly recommend Dr. Kaufman!“

- Kathleen Nicoll

“The first contact with Dr. Rose’s staff rapidly puts you at ease. His staff is engaging, efficient and experienced. Dr. Rose relieved the loss of feeling in my left leg. Normal feeling is returning as well as normal function. Would recommend him highly.“

- Robert Kirwan

“My experience with the Institute For Advanced Reconstruction at the Plastic Surgery Center helped make my journey of having breast cancer twice, not so traumatic. My doctor and his staff made my experience of having reconstruction of both breasts a hopeful and positive one.“

- Jean Cronin

“Being diagnosed with breast cancer is a devastating ordeal. I would only wish that every woman that has to hear the words “you have breast cancer” has a surgeon on their side like Dr. Elkwood. The staff at the Plastic Surgery Center went above and beyond what a patient should expect in service and caring professionalism. I would highly recommend Dr. Elkwood because no matter what the dilemma, he would calmly and confidently get you through it. I never had a doubt that I was in the right place for my reconstruction surgery.“

- J.W.

“In December of 2009 my world turned upside down. Breast cancer is certainly a huge pill to swallow. Dr. Rose was recommended to me for the reconstruction part of my surgery. The fear and anxiety I felt through the entire process was a natural part of my journey. I must say, the first visit to the office was a reassurance that I was under the best care I could hope for. The comforting and understanding manner immediately made me know that everything would work out in the best way possible. And it has. No one wants to hear the “positive” word when it concerns cancer. Dr. Rose, on the other hand, has been a very positive part of the past eighteen months. As well as quality personal care, the quality of your work is outstanding. My thanks to you and your valuable staff for all you have done. I am truly grateful.“

- Maryann Marini

“Dr. Rose is absolutely amazing! I couldn’t have chosen a better surgeon. He takes his time and is completely honest with you. The office staff is amazing as well! The staff is always friendly in the office or over the phone. They treat you like family instead of a patient. I know for a fact that if I had gone to any other surgeon for my surgery I would have been extremely disappointed with the outcome.“

- Jenny

“My experience with Dr. Rose and his staff was amazing. They came highly recommended. After speaking with him and his staff, I knew I would be in great hands. They all were very knowledgeable, caring, and treated me as though I was the only patient! I had a very pleasant recovery after my breast augmentation due to this fact. So many people have asked me who my doctor was and I proudly said “one of the best doctors in this area.“

- Kerry Lamentino

“I’ve been to many plastic surgeons because of my disorder. When I developed breast cancer I was directed to Dr. Kaufman. Not only is he an excellent surgeon, he’s compassionate and helps you feel at ease. His staff is very accommodating to your needs and making appointments that fit around your work schedule. They are always pleasant. I’m very grateful to Dr. Kaufman and his staff.“

- B.R.

“After a surgery in 2010 I was left unable to feel my leg and foot due to the peroneal nerve. My neurologist sent me to Dr. Rose who explained the surgery and what to expect. Three weeks later I walked out of the hospital and could feel my leg completely and wiggle my toes for the first time in over a year. In 2012 I had the 2nd and final surgery on my foot which went great. Every day more and more feeling comes back. I am almost fully recovered. I can never thank Dr Rose enough for what he has done for me.“

- Susan Gaston

“I was referred to Dr. Ashinoff for an infected non-healing diabetic foot wound on my heel. I had been treated for over a year before seeing the doctor. The orthopedics wanted to amputate my leg, but Dr Ashinoff was successful doing a skin graph which literally saved my leg. I will always be grateful for his expertise.“

- Daniel Cairos

“In September 2010, I had right rotator cuff surgery and was given the usual nerve block for pain during and after surgery. A nerve block, being a blind procedure, damaged the phrenic nerve leaving the right diaphragm paralyzed causing difficulty breathing. Doctors said nothing could bring back normal breathing, “JUST LIVE WITH IT” the doctors said. For me it was very difficult to walk up stairs or just go for a short walk. Quality of life was in the “pits” for me until my wife ran into some online information about Dr. Kaufman and The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction.

February 17, 2012 was surgery day. After surgery I woke up to a breath of air I haven’t felt in a year and a half. Two days later I was taking longer and longer walks and now after one month I can even run for short periods.

Lung rehabilitation to strengthen my diaphragm is off to a good start. Dr. Kaufman and his team have given us more hope than we could possibly dream in such a short time. Dr. Kaufman has not only restored my quality of life, but his expertise gives hope to the rest of the world as well. Thank you and your team for such a wonderful gift.“

– Tom Maddalla

“I have had shoulder problems for years. Dr Kaufman performed a breast reduction and did an excellent job. He also did work on my face and neck. I look about ten years younger. I highly recommend him.“

– D.S.

“Dr. Ashinoff along with his staff is fabulous.  They are the most caring and considerate professionals I have ever had the pleasure to deal with.  My surgery was PERFECT!“

– Maureen Proudman

“Dr. Kaufman and all the staff I had contact with at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction were caring, compassionate and helpful.  I had a complication with a reaction to the stitches and got extra care dealing with it and did not get an infection during the healing, which was a possibility.  I saw Dr. Ashinoff every other week and he was great too.  The reconstructed area looks great.“

– Bertha Field

“I had major abdominal surgery that required plastic surgery to close.  Dr. Ashinoff did a wonderful job explaining the entire process and all potential conflicts.  When the skin graft did not take, he explained the procedure and how it was not the “end all” to my surgeries and also fully explained what occurred.  Dr. Ashinoff performed my ostomy reversenal and did a wonderful job.  The extensive procedure was fully explained and the after care was all that could be asked for. If I ever need plastic surgey again, Dr. Ashinoff is my 1^st , 2^nd and 3^rd choice.“

– Michael Stogdill

“I was operated on 6/16/11 by Dr. Patel.  I was very comfortable being in his care.  He was kind, sincere and attentive to m y questions and needs.  I was pleased with the results of my surgery.  When I first had my consultation visit, Dr. Patel advised me of everything that would be done and left nothing out.  He also advised me that he would work with my insurance company, which was a big plus.  I would recommend Dr. Patel very highly.  His assistant, Deanna was a treasure, she was always there whether  I called or had a visit to answer any questions I might have.  Dr. Patel is lucky to have her.  The rest of the staff was always pleasant, kind and cooperative to anything I might have needed.  Thank you to Dr. Patel and his staff for a comforting experience.“

–Jennie Livich

“A thousand thank-you’s to Dr. Elkwood and his team. I was in a motorcycle accident in September 2009, and among many of the injuries I suffered was two dissected carotid arteries and severed nerves from my spinal cord near my neck. Anyway, I lost the use of my right arm and the muscles atrophied so badly that my arm was separated from my shoulder (so painful). I went to many different specialists and surgeons, but no one wanted to touch me because of the damage to my carotid arteries. My first appointment with Dr. Elkwood changed everything. He didn’t say “sorry, I don’t know what I can do for you”, he said “I want to help you”. Tears filled my eyes, I couldn’t believe it. Well, he sent me to see his specialists, and when things were ready, I underwent muscle reconstruction surgery. Dr. Elkwood and team reconstructed my shoulder so my arm was no longer dislocated. When I woke up from the procedure, I had the normal surgery pain, but I noticed that the dislocated pain wasn’t there. By the time my next appointment, I was almost completely off my pain medication (which I was taking for over a year). Now, it’s been almost a year since the surgery, and instead of being hunched over in pain trying to hold my arm in place, I’m back to doing the things I really enjoy like hiking, camping, and my husband and I bought a kayak that you pedal with your feet. I’m not sure where I would have been now if I didn’t meet with Dr. Elkwood, but I’m glad I didn’t have to find out. Again, thank you.“

- Denise Young

“I am writing this note to let you know what a wonderful doctor and person you are. In November of 2010 I received the horrific news that I had breast cancer. Thru my shock came the fear that my life would be changed forever. I would never have the confidence that I once had because my body would no tbe the same anymore. It would be different, and I , and everyone around me would know that. I didn’t know how I was going to face that dreaded day on January 3, 2011 when I would have my mastectomy.

Thru the Grace of God, I found you. You made the unbearable reality an easier process to face. Not only did you reassure me with your kindness and patience, you showed me what a truly caring person you are.

One year has passed and because of you I now have a greater confidence than I had before. (who would ever think that could be possible) Thank you Dr. Patel. Because of you I made it thru this hurdle, and you made it much easier than I would have ever imagined.

Wishing you and your family a VERY HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!!!!“
- Annette Corcoran

Annette was diagnosed with right breast cancer in December, 2010. She underwent a right skin sparing mastectomy and immediate TRAM flap reconstruction in January,  2011.  Subsequently, Annette has had nipple and areolar reconstruction as well as minor symmetry procedures. She is currently finished with her reconstructive process and is very happy with her new breast, the symmetry and normalcy she has regained.
Dr. Tushar Patel

“I am not always good with words in expressing myself, but I do speak with my heart. On Thursday, February 5, 2010, I had an appointment to see Dr. Patel for reconstruction breast surgery. My first time visiting the office, I was amazed at the warmth and professional courteousness of the office. Dr. Patel and his wonderful staff are a breath of fresh air. When I met Dr. Patel whom I was considering to perform my surgery, I definitely knew that I had chosen the right doctor to take care of my breast reconstruction. My first impression of Dr. Patel was that he seemed to be gentle natured doctor who is very caring about his patience. My experience was that Dr. Patel took the time to listen to me about my health issue that needed attention, and I, did not feel that I was being rushed to speak so he could move on to his next patient. So, therefore, Dr. Patel is one of the most impressive physicians I know.

My office visits to see Dr. Patel and his wonderful staff had always put me at ease no matter how serious the reason for my visits. From the time I had entered The Plastic Surgery Center In Shrewsbury, N.J., I found that every staff member seemed to appreciate me as a patient.

I sincerely appreciate the awesome work that Dr. Patel has performed to make me feel how I use to before I had a mastectomy. It does not feel that I have ever had a mastectomy. There has been patience’s who have told me that they had breast cancer and never had reconstruction because they felt they did not need the breast any more and I respect their decision. I wanted breast reconstruction, not for my husband or anyone else. It was important to me to have this surgery performed so I could be the way I once was; with two breasts not one. I find that Dr. Patel’s performance and interpersonal skills phenomenal. I would enthusiastically recommend Dr. Patel to my family and friends.

I want to thank Dr. Patel and his wonderful caring staff for being so compassionate towards my needs and listening, as well as, answering any questions that had to be addressed.

God blesses each and every one of you!“
- Janis M. Hunter

“This was very emotional for me. I really didn’t realize before I started saying it out loud and writing it down how much you all have helped me and really changed my life. To have my body ravaged from breast cancer was a lot for me. But at the same time happy and grateful to be alive and still here. However, it was a depressing thing for me to go through and really I was having a difficult time dealing with it on an every day basis. So to put how much I appreciate what you have done for me, I really don’t think can be done. I don’t know if I can find enough words to express how I feel and how much you have changed my life. But I certainly can explain the procedures and how each one made my body look different and so much better each and ever time. The bottom line is I love my body and life again because of Dr. Ashinoff and his staff.

Let me start by saying thank you Dr. Russell Ashinoff and staff so very much for the kind and friendly way you have treated me from the beginning as a new patient and cancer survivor. As you know I have had a great deal of medical treatments over the years with a number of doctors. I can safely say you and your staff are by far the best. The work you have done for me is great. It has improved my life, confidence, and body 100%. You have totally restored me back to the women I once was before breast cancer. Probably even better then I was. Usually visits to the doctors is not a pleasant thing for me, however, you and your staff have made me happy to come to all of my appointments. You have answered all of my questions and have been there each and every time I have called in with even more questions. So for your work, your kindness, and compassion I felt with each and every visit, I thank you.“

“Dr Ashinoff along with his staff are fabulous! They are the most caring and considerate professionals I have ever had the pleasure to deal with. My surgery was perfect!“
- Maureen Proudman

“Dr. Patel you and your staff are truly my dream team. From Amber at the front desk, Jodi my surgery coordinator, and what can I say about Deanna? She’s the best! You not only physically put me back together, but, with your kindness and patience, helped me through a difficult journey. Dave and I will forever be grateful. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.“
- Theresa Reid

“I am eternally grateful to Dr. Russell Ashinoff and his partner Dr. Patel. I severed literally all of my nerves and every soft tissue with the exception of one artery. Because of the superior work these physicians did, I have use of my right hand and have returned to work as a critical care RN. Also, the nurse Micky, was very responsive to any questions that I had and nurturing as I went through the emotional changes of the healing process. Thank youto these medical professionals. Also, Thank you to the entire staff at The Plastic Surgery Center for their kindness and professionalism. “
- Angela Moss

“In February 2011, I had basil cell cancer removed from the side of my nose right cheek. Dr. Tushar Patel of The Plastic Surgery Center performed my closure. The result is amazing. I feel there are no signs of the cancer removal or closure procedures. Dr. Patel and the entire staff at The Plastic Surgery Center were courteous and professional. My entire experience was positive. I am very pleased.“
- Joan

“I’m so grateful to everyone who has helped me and my family. I am looking forward to the operation, as I have missed out on lots of activities I did prior to this illness and want to return to work as soon as I am able.
Read Patient Story

“Sometimes I get a little emotional. I’m a single parent with an 18-year-old daughter, so I’ve had to focus on keeping my job and health insurance. It definitely has been hard, but I’m grateful to be alive…
Read Patient Story

“Before it was hard for me to function. My oxygen level at the time of my surgery was only 37%…
Read Patient Story

“Dr. Matthew Kaufman of The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction is flanked by Dar Thompson of Peachtree, Georgia (left), and Russell Garrison of Bedford, Indiana. Dr. Kaufman successfully performed surgery to repair the phrenic nerve in both patients. Thompson, age 48, the CEO of World Gym Fitness Centers in Fayetteville and Peachtree, Georgia, struggled for six years with fatigue and poor lung function before finding Dr. Kaufman. “This guy saved me,” says Thompson of Dr. Kaufman. Thompson, who says he looks and feels 20 years younger from the relief he has gained, reports he was at 50% of his work level prior to surgery, and a year after surgery is now able to play competitive ice hockey and perform at 95% of maximum capacity. Russell Garrison, a 42-year-old commander of the Indiana State troopers, is pictured here a mere five days after his surgery. Like Thompson, he continued his training program despite the shortness of breath and inability to maintain his stamina. Says Dr. Kaufman of these two supremely fit patients, “Following phrenic nerve surgery I think fitness helps the rehabilitation of the diaphragm (which is compromised by an injury to the phrenic nerve that causes paralysis). After all, at least one study showed that the diaphragm muscle begins to deteriorate even 12 hours of inactivity.“

“We are now post 18 months from the surgery and I feel we have hit a magical point in the process of total recovery.

About a month ago I began to have muscle spasms in my lower thorax and upper abdominal region. The spasm is located just under the medial side of my last (lowest) right rib. At first I thought it was my heart but soon realized where the spasm was located. This event was fairly consistent over a 15 day period, sometimes 5 or 6 occurrences per day. The diaphragm continues to go into spasm on occasion

Has you and I discussed on several occasions, regarding potential nerve growth (1 cm per month), it appears that there is a major increase in conduction in the diaphragm over the past 10 days. My breaths are much easier and much deeper than they were only one month ago. It’s like the dimmer has slowly been getting brighter and brighter over the last year-and-a-half but now it’s been turned all the way up. I thought I felt good after the surgery and all the months thereafter but this latest improvement is off the charts compared to the overall process.

In conclusion, these latest events have made my breathing much easier and effortless while at rest. My intuition tells me that my phrenic nerve has recovered about 95% since the procedure in December of 2009. I feel that the majority, if not all, of the nerve tissue has regenerated and all that remains is strength of conduction and recondition of the diaphragm muscle itself.

I hope this information may be helpful in current and/or future patients.

Again, thanks for everything….this is unbelievable. I am going to try to come up in August to see you and Dr. Cole.“
- Dar Thompson
Phrenic Nerve Injury

“After being diagnosed with phrenic nerve palsy, put on oxygen therapy, and told there was nothing I could do, I found the Plastic Surgery Center on the internet. I made an appointment and met an enthusiastic and energetic Dr. Kaufman who told me of a procedure he had performed approximately 25 times with a 75% success rate. I immediately scheduled the surgery. After a couple of tests to confirm my diagnosis I had the surgery on February 2, 2011. At the time I awoke from surgery I was already breathing better. Now 5 months after my surgery I am back to about 80% of where I was before my injury. I would like to thank the Plastic Surgery Center, Dr Kaufman and The Jersey shore Medical Center for restoring my quality of life. I am back to work now, have not been on oxygen since I left the hospital, and have returned to assisting the coaching on my sons baseball team. I am really looking forward to the day when my breathing is back 100% and I can return to all of the things I have not been able to do for the last 2 years.“
- Frank Tarvin