"After reading several comments about Dr. Heap I didn't expect a warm and fuzzy doc when I got there. I did expect someone with an English accent, dry wit, and brief commentary. I have heard such good things about his surgical technique I didn't care if he didn't hug me. When I went to the first appointment, both my friend and I (we are both RNs) felt very pleased with our interaction. He answered every question we presented as thoroughly as we insisted, and gave plenty of time for more that came up. He wasn't hurried, and seemed very relaxed. He explained his reasons for certain surgical techniques which made LOTS of sense. He doesn't do a lot of talking on his own, so come prepared with a list of questions. I had typed one up and he seemed quite impressed with it. I think he responds well to informed patients. After my appointment we went to the hospital he performs surgery at, and went to the cafeteria. We ran into, of all things, a couple RECOVERY ROOM nurses!! They both said he was EXCELLENT technically and really watches out for his patients. (even one who obviously didn't agree with WLS) I got the feeling he may not be the most fun to work with at times but HEY what surgeon is??
Overall I feel very confident in trusting my body to him! I will update after surgery!
I also want to say that his office staff are VERY busy and have not been very good about getting back to me when they said they would. However, when I have been persistant about calling back, all my questions are answered. I think its very important in this day and age of VERY BUSY medical staff to take responsibility for your own stuff. As long as they get the insurance stuff right (which I am following up on) and answer my questions I am happy enough.
POST OP: My respect and warmth for Dr. Heap and his office staff has only increased tremendously since my surgery experience. He was given high marks by many hospital staff, and was very responsive to any pain issues. He is very caring, and VERY VERY good at what he does. I would recommend him to anyone wanting this surgery done well. I will still say that I think he respects his patients more who are motivated to learn all they can about surgery and motivated to take a very active role in their own surgery/recovery process."
