Patient Stories

Feeling Better Under Dr. Livhits’ Care

Satisfied Patient of Masha Livhits, MD
Parathyroidectomy at UCLA

My experience with UCLA Endocrine Surgery was great, and I am feeling better after receiving care. I am very happy with the care I received from Dr. Livhits who was wonderful and very professional. Satisfied Patient, Santa Maria, CA.

Excellent Surgery

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Parathyroidectomy at UCLA

My experience with Dr. Yeh was excellent. I initially saw him on You Tube and he seemed very knowledgeable and professional. My first office visit was with Dr. Famini and I liked him very much. He confirmed a diagnosis of Primary Hyperparathyroidism and ordered a CT scan and referred me to see Dr. Yeh. I saw Dr. Yeh about 10 days later and he reviewed my medical records and recommended a parathyroidectomy. Dr. Yeh was very thorough and spent time explaining my diagnosis and surgical procedure to me and my husband. He was very kind and I felt confident that I had chosen an excellent physician and hospital. I had my surgery a month later at the day surgical unit at UCLA. The doctors, nurses and other staff were excellent. They were attentive and caring. Dr. Yeh visited me before and after surgery and answered my questions and kept my husband informed about everything. We received written post-op instructions and medications and we spent the night at a local hotel so we would be near the hospital if there were any problems during the night. I had very little pain and only needed Tylenol for a few days. My incision was only about an inch long and the stitches were under the skin and dissolved on their own. I had a video conference call with Dr. Yeh two weeks post-op. We talked about my recovery and he reassured me that said all my lab results were now normal. I only need to take a normal amount of calcium and follow-up with my primary care doctor. I am thankful for finding Dr. Yeh and UCLA. Satisfied Patient, Seal Beach, CA.

Pheochromocytoma Treatment Diagnosis >

Phenomenal Surgeon and Staff

Satisfied Patient of Masha Livhits, MD
Pheochromocytoma Surgery at UCLA

It’s always scary when you get a surprise diagnosis and are told you need surgery. Unfortunately, this isn’t my first time being told this type of news..therefore it’s important to go to the best surgeons. I was told the surgeon for a Pheochromocytoma, is Dr. Livhits at UCLA. I did tele-med visits leading up to surgery and made the hour drive to see her for pre-op and again the day of surgery. Her team is friendly and courteous. UCLA is beyond a top-notch medical facility: they operate like a well-oiled machine. Pre-op, OR, recovery, ICU, etc was probably the best I’ve experienced in my many hospital stays. The team also was friendly to answer any of my home recovery inquires. I highly recommend Dr. Livhits for any of your endocrine surgical needs if you are located anywhere in Southern CA, she’s worth the drive. Satisfied Patient, San Juan Capistrano, CA.

Thyroid Cancer Management | Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease

Grateful

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Thyroidectomy at UCLA

After my OB/GYN found a thyroid nodule, I was referred to a local endocrinologist, who did a painful biopsy, and was very short in explaining to me what was going on. Luckily, I was referred to Dr. Yeh, and I feel very grateful to have him as my doctor. The diagnosis was the most frightening thing that I’ve ever experienced, and a referral to have a prompt total thyroidectomy was nerve-racking. Dr. Yeh was calm, reassuring, and always took time to explain things to me thoroughly without ever making me feel rushed. Like most people, I never wanted to have any type of surgery. However, given the circumstances, I am extremely satisfied with his clinic, his demeanor, and the outcome of the surgery. My scar is barely noticeable, owing to his skilled experience as a surgeon, especially in such a delicate and obvious location. Through online reading, I learned that the first surgery is the most important, as it sets the stage for future complications and recurrence. I am appreciative to have been referred to him, and would highly recommend him to any future prospects. Even after the surgery, he responded quickly to questions, and my follow-up with him over these past 10 months has continued to be very positive. The only negative that I experienced was difficulty scheduling such an urgent surgery. I’m not sure if this was a UCLA scheduler issue, or an issue with my insurance, but it did take several calls to get things organized and scheduled. Satisfied Patient, Bakersfield, CA.

Perfect Surgery

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Parathyroidectomy at UCLA

I was extremely pleased with every aspect of my care with Dr. Yeh -- pre-surgery; the surgery itself; and post-surgery follow-up. The surgery went perfectly in every respect and I was both impressed and delighted by the sheer professionalism that I experienced from Dr. Yeh as well as from his entire team. I would unhesitatingly recommend Dr. Yeh's services to others contemplating such surgery. Satisfied Patient, Los Angeles, CA.

Thyroid Cancer Management | Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease

Dr. Yeh Will Always Be My #1 Lifesaver!

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Thyroidectomy at UCLA

In September of 2018 I was diagnosed with Medullary Thyroid cancer. I was terrified, for I had just lost my husband a few years prior and had a teenage daughter to raise. Dr. Yeh was my Godsend. By the end of October, he had performed my lifesaving surgery and now, exactly two years later, I am still completely cancer free! I was very lucky that the scariest medical emergency of my life only lasted one month. I like to call it my "hiccup" in time. Minus my battle wound across my neck, which is barely noticeable now, I know that Medullary Thyroid cancer lost the battle to Dr. Yeh. Dr. Yeh has the best bedside manner, is accessible, and has a tremendously kind heart. His expertise in treating/operating on thyroid cancer was imperative to my recovery. He spotted and removed every little lymph node that was ridden with cancer (I had 17 malignant lymph nodes) and did a fantastic job removing my thyroid. My recovery period was about two months, but after that I felt like I was ready to tackle the world again! Satisfied Patient, Los Angeles, CA.

Thyroid Cancer Management | Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease

Compassionate and Professional

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Total Thyroidectomy at UCLA

I just cannot praise Dr. Michael Yeh and his Team highly enough. They were kind, compassionate, professional and went out Of their way to alleviate my concerns, answer my questions and explain the procedure clearly. From the moment I entered their office I felt comfortable and certain of a positive outcome. I was so impressed by the professionalism of each member of his surgical team and office staff. They have followed up with me in every imaginable way; answered my questions, responded to my calls quickly, and most of all, made every effort to put me at ease. Dr. Yeh’s staff feels like a family and it shows in their ability to put their patients first. Satisfied Patient, Pacific Palisades, CA.

Thyroid Cancer Management | Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease

Grateful for Dr. Yeh

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Thyroidectomy at UCLA

Dr. Yeh is a wonderful doctor! His expertise and knowledge are unsurpassable. He is empathetic and kind, and truly loves to help his patients. He is a God send to me and an answer to my prayers. When I was researching doctors for my thyroidectomy I was very anxious and nervous in my search for this operation. Dr. Yeh is professional and compassionate. He took the time to explain my procedure beforehand to me with a visual. I am healing well and surgery was successful. I am thrilled with the way my incision looks, as it is barely noticeable. Dr. Yeh was supportive throughout my recovery process and was available to answer any of my questions. Dr. Yeh is a true blessing and I am so grateful to have him as my doctor! Thank you Dr. Yeh and may God bless you and your family always. Satisfied Patient, Phelan, CA.

Pleased with My Parathyroidectomy

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Parathyroidectomy at UCLA

Dr. Michael Yeh performed a thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy on me four weeks ago today. There is no other doctor in this country that I would have selected over Dr. Yeh. His reputation is excellent, he is compassionate and kind, explains procedures thoroughly and is absolutely top rate in his skills. Another reason that I would have had no other doctor is that Dr. Yeh removed one of my adrenal glands approximately 10 years ago when cancer was suspected. Fortunately, it was benign; Dr. Yeh was able to perform outpatient laparoscopic surgery leaving me with virtually no scars. In addition, everyone on Dr. Yeh's staff and medical team went above and beyond to make me feel comfortable. The post-surgical team came to check up on me several times during my overnight hospital stay and was patient, explained things well and calmed any fears I had. My endocrinologist told me that, in her opinion, the surgery was performed beautifully. Obviously I hope to never need more surgery but if I do need it and it is in Dr. Yeh's field, I would choose no one else. Satisfied Patient, Pasadena, CA.

Thyroid Cancer Management | Thyroid and Parathyroid Disease

Quick Recovery

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Thyroidectomy at UCLA

Dr. Yeh is a master surgeon. It was an overnight procedure, I am 72. The day I came home I got out of my brother's car and walked 5 miles. The was virtually no pain and the recovery period was I would say, one day. Dr. Yeh is also an artist. The scarring is minimal and artistically done.

I would have no hesitation to be operated on by Dr. Yeh.
Thank you again. Satisfied Patient, Huntington Beach, CA.

Retroperitoneoscopic Adrenalectomy > | Adrenal Conditions > | Surgery Outomes >

Young and Brave

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Thyroid Lobectomy at UCLA

As some of you already know, a few months ago I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer (the best cancer to get, they say). In early March, I noticed a lump on my throat just above my collar bone. I put off getting it checked out, forgetting it was there and then remembering it was there. I finally listened to my wife and went to the doctor. Blood work turned into ultrasounds, three biopsies, and finally surgery to remove my thyroid and the cancer with a lower neck dissection. Now the recovery can start. I tell my story because I want to encourage people to not put off the trip to the doctor. Get your shit checked out and do not wait. Interview a couple of doctors before you decide what to do. Like appraisers, they all have their opinions and are not always in alignment with yours.

I also want to use this post to talk about a charity that you may not be familiar with but which I am committed to supporting in the future. @theyoungandbrave is a charity that helps kids with cancer. The kids are WARRIORS. I can’t imagine being a kid or a parent and have to deal with a cancer diagnosis. The Young and Brave helps those families not just with networking and resources but also financially. If you need a charity to support that truly does a lot of good, check them out. For my real estate friends, @theyoungandbrave has a real estate program designed by REALTORS who want to help. Want more information about this? Please reach out to @garry_eberhardt_realtor I have read that “there is no such thing as a 'good' cancer." Thyroid cancer changes your life. A 90% cure rate does not cure you from living with the disease or from the fear that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Although I am confident of a full recovery after my surgery, this has and will change my life forever.

Thank you to my wife, family, and friends for the support. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. Satisfied Patient, Oxnard, CA.
#grateful #thankgod #cancer #thyroidcancer #recovery #youngandthebrave #cancersucks #cancerawareness #lovealwaysbeatscancer.

Thyroid Nodules > | Thyroid Cancer Management > | Thyroid Disease >

Dr. Yeh - What a Nice Human Being

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Left Retroperitonescopic Adrenalectomy at UCLA

I had my Surgery done on August 18th at UCLA MED CTR. Oh my Goodness, Dr Michael W Yeh just awesome, I know he is a top notch "SURGEON" in his field but oh my LORD what a nice human being. Thank all his Medical Staff as well as Administrative Staff for the great work you all do. The Surgery went extremely well, stayed overnight at the Hospital, and the staff all took great care of me. I am home recovering well, had no pain did not have to take any pain medications as well. Please stay in touch.
"GOD BLESS YOU ALL" Thank you!!!, Satisfied Patient, Nevada.

A Teacher’s Parathyroidectomy Experience

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Parathyroidectomy at UCLA

I was very apprehensive about having the hyper parathyroidectomy surgery when I was first diagnosed because I had no symptoms. My blood work showed that my calcium levels were high but I felt fit and was able to surf, run, bike and play sports without problems. Dr. Yeh explained that if I wanted to continue this athletic lifestyle in the future, I would need to remove the hyper parathyroid gland that was causing too much calcium in my system. After my first meeting with him, I felt relaxed and comfortable with my decision to get the surgery.

Dr. Yeh has so much personality! We connected and even laughed together during our first pre-surgery meeting. I felt like Dr. Yeh was thorough with his explanations about the exact things that were going to happen during the surgery. He even drew a picture for me to help me visualize what part of the thyroid was being removed. He explained all of the risks involved and he was so patient when listening to and answering my detailed list of questIons. He also made a huge effort to meet with me before the surgery. He called my husband while I was recovering after the surgery and I met again with him before I left the hospital. I never felt like he was in a hurry to get to his next patient. He honestly seems passionate about making peoples’ lives better and I can tell he loves his job. During my post-surgery appointment, I was so thankful to have the opportunity to review my results with Dr. Yeh and to go over all of my new questions with him, not just someone from his office. He again seemed sincerely happy to hear that I was doing so well and he was delighted to hear that I had just gotten out of the water before our appointment. I was able to surf two weeks after the surgery with no complications.

I had four second opinions before choosing Dr. Yeh to do my surgery and I am so glad that I chose Dr. Yeh. The UCLA Medical Center staff was exceptional and I felt completely safe and comfortable even during the Covid Pandemic. I am so glad that I did not have the surgery done somewhere else. Dr. Yeh did and excellent surgery and he made me feel like I was his most important patient before, during and after my surgery with him. Sincerely with awe and respect for Dr. Yeh, Age 45, High School Teacher.

Outcomes After Parathyroid Surgery > | Surgery Benefits > | Scar Photos & Video >

A Nurse’s Experience with Dr. Livhits

Satisfied Patient of Masha Livhits, MD
Parathyroid Surgery at UCLA

As a retired R.N., I can, wholeheartedly and without reservation, recommend Dr. Masha Livhits and her team at UCLA Medical Center. I recently underwent endocrine surgery (parathyroid). The entire experience and process, from my initial consult, to the follow-up could not have gone more smoothly. I expected a few snags or glitches due to the COVID imposed restrictions, but I'm pleased to say that I was wrong. Everyone whom I encountered throughout the process was courteous, caring, and professional. Dr. Livhits is exceptional in her experience and knowledge. Her calm, warm, and caring manner put me at ease as soon as we met. She took her time and thoroughly explained the procedure, the necessary pre-op work-up, along with what I should expect in recovery and afterward. She took the time to phone my husband after surgery and gave him a status report and projected time in recovery. She was flexible and considerate about the final post-op appointment; she gave me the options of going in to the office, or making a phone or zoom call. All in all, I can't say enough about the professionalism of Dr. Livhits, and her staff, in making this procedure as painless and stress-free as possible. Satisfied Patient, Thousand Oaks, CA.

Dr. Livhits and My Parathyroidectomy

Satisfied Patient of Masha Livhits, MD
Parathyroidectomy at UCLA

I’m so glad I chose to go to UCLA Endocrine for my parathyroidectomy. It was a great experience from start to finish. I was part of the patient distance program as I don’t live near LA and all communication was top notch and the process was made easy. After my first in-office visit and ultrasound with Dr. Livhits I knew immediately that I was in good and experienced hands. I left feeling 100% confident in her care and abilities. The entire team, from receptionists, schedulers and assistants, to the nurses and the anesthesiologist were all so kind, knowledgeable and professional. Not once did I feel like my needs weren’t important or that I was just another patient. I am still so impressed with the level of care I received. Thank you all so much for taking such great care of me and making the whole experience that much easier. Satisfied Patient, Santa Maria, CA.

Parathyroidectomy with Dr. Michael Yeh

Satisfied Patient of Michael Yeh, MD
Parathyroidectomy at UCLA

I wanted to say again to the team how grateful I am for the care I received. I felt like royalty, a valued human, like someone who mattered to the rest of the world. My family and best friend couldn't take the time off to be with me, so a retired lady from my church was with me, and the team was so incredibly kind to her, and treated her like my family. We hadn't been sure if she would be allowed to visit me in post-op, and truly appreciated the team's kindness in including her in my care so that I wasn't alone. Best, Satisfied Patient, Santa Barbara, CA.

Thyroid Cancer Surgery with Dr. Avital Harari

Satisfied Patient of Avital Harari, MD
Thyroid Cancer Surgery at UCLA

I love Dr. Harari! When I came upon Dr. Harari’s name while researching surgeons to remove my thyroid cancer, her impeccable credentials spoke volumes! During my consultation, I knew immediately I was not going to need to interview any other doctors. I was instantly put as ease by her caring and kind demeanor. Dr. Harari also took the time to repeat anything I wasn’t comprehending (which was a lot, since I was beyond petrified having been diagnosed with cancer). The scar is barely visible, since she skillfully made the incision in the crease of my neck, so unless I extend my head back, it is completely unnoticeable. If you find yourself in the unfortunate place of needing endocrine surgery, Dr. Harari is definitely the way to go!

Avital Harari, MD

Thyroid Surgery with Dr. Masha Livhits

Satisfied Patient of Masha Livhits, MD
Thyroid Surgery at UCLA

I was absolutely terrified when I found out I needed thyroid surgery. I had a choice of doctors and dr Livhits was everything and more I was looking for She was so thoughtful and was one of the first doctors that listened to me and my concerns. She was smart and confident and I knew I was in good hands. I never once questioned her experience, knowledge, expertise and skill. She took great care in addressing my physical and mental health before, during and post surgery. I can’t thank enough her and her team and everyone in her office. I’m so grateful.