"Absolutely the best ! I first met Dr. Barkan at an informational seminar he conducted in April 2011 and he appeared very competent, but direct. I met him for my initial consultation later that same month and he recommended the Sleeve for me(I had done research beforehand and was leaning towards the Sleeve but didn't mention that to him at first). He gave me the reasons that he recommended the Sleeve , which I was comfortable with, and gave me a binder which listed all of my insurance requirements and required medical tests. I was impressed that his office offered support groups ,a coordinator to maintain my files, a bariatric nurse and nutritionist to answer my questions , and a comprehensive aftercare program. I next met with Dr. Barkan January 2012 after insurance approval-this was a mandatory meeting where a family member or friend must also attend- Dr Barkan answered all of our questions directly and honestly, including all possible risks and complications.My surgery was done using the da Vinci robot and I have had virtually no pain and no complications. I was pleasantly surprised that he visited me before he performed my surgery, later on that day after surgery, the following morning, and the next following morning. I also saw him for my 2 week follow up. Dr Barkan is not the most talkative doctor, but he will impress you with his competence, knowledge and experience. Some may prefer a doctor who is more talkative or friendly(bedside manner), however if I had to choose between competence and bedside manner, while I would not want a doctor who is rude or evasive or abrupt,(which he is NOT) I definitely prefer a doctor to be skilled and competent and able to answer my questions and address all of my concerns- in these areas Dr. Barkan excels. As I've gotten to know Dr. Barkan better I find that he has a dry sense of humor and is very comforting- he also has an amazing memory- in January 2012 he noted the difference in my hairstyle at our first meeting in Apri2011,although he hadn't seen me in between these months. I certainly would-and have- recommended him to a friend and a co-worker."
