Patient Testimonials, Stories & Videos

Patient Videos

Patient Stories

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

“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 to _____ for 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

“For Dr. Kaufman
You were so patient and kind and so incredibly reassuring at all the right times. Thanks so much. BIG DECISION. Yes SCARY. Yes a little ROUGH SPOTS. Yes just one or two. END RESULT, PRICELESS!! For oh so many reasons. Pretty sure the best I’ve looked in a swimsuit in 15 years. THANK YOU! You promised me it would be great and it is. I feel great. Just unbelievably great!“

“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