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April 23, 2021
Please feel free to post a testimonial! We would love to hear from you!
-Womens Health Pavilion
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Being faced with having to have a hysterectomy is a little unsettling. But, I can say I feel much better thanks to Dr. Nowak and the da Vinci. I am looking forward to getting on with my life. Everyday I feel better. I’ve had an easy recovery. Very thankful.
K.C. of Traverse City, MI
What a wonderful way to have a hysterectomy. Minimal pain afterward. I didn’t need narcotics so, no nausea or drowsiness. I could drive in week afterward. Only restriction was no lifting for 4-6 weeks. Small price to pay for a speedy recovery. I’d highly recommend the robotic surgery for anyone. It is important to have an experienced physician so, I highly recommend Dr. Nowak.
M.K of Cedar, MI
The experience was positive for one! I would say don’t wait as long as I did before acting. I’m 65 years old and healing fine. I loved the office, the gals, and my doctor. The hospital stay was a positive too!
G.S. of Mancelona, MI
The pain from surgery was considerably less than the pain leading up to surgery that I was dealing with for several years.
B.B. of Kingsley, MI
I am very please with the results of my surgery. I had a cystocele and rectocele. My recovery was pretty quick. Dr. Nowak used the da Vinci and I am glad that he did. It was less painful in the long run. I am four weeks into recovery and feeling very good. I am finally able to hold back my urine and not going to the bathroom every 20 minutes.
D.K. of East Jordan, MI
Surgery went well. The benefits of robotic assisted surgery are wonderful! I had very little pain, faster healing time, and less time in surgery. Thank you Dr. Nowak!
B.M. of Tustin, MI
It was a breeze. No complications, minimal pain. The only problem was trying to avoid being active.
J.H. of Traverse City, MI
Everything went wonderful. I’m so happy I had this done. Dr. Nowak was very informative on everything hat was being done. Recovery went well too! I feel great!
R.G. of Kewadin, MI
My procedure was great! Dr. Nowak and staff are excellent! I had minimal discomfort after surgery. All questions both before and after surgery were answered in a timely fashion. So glad to have had the da Vinci procedure option.
A.H. of Cadillac, MI
I was having some issues that I had seen three other doctors for and they were having a difficult time coming up with a cause/ solution. One trip to Dr. Nowak he instantly diagnosed and set up a workable treatment. Also, I had surgery with Dr. Nowak and I found him and his staff to be very knowledgeable. They prepared me well for the surgery and the after care. I am very pleased with Dr. Nowak. The da Vinci was great. Just four small incisions in the abdomen area. I would definitely recommend!
M.O. of Cadillac, MI
I am very grateful for everyone’s help and professionalism. I have spent years having female problems, and it wasn’t correctly diagnosed until I came to Dr. Nowak. Looking forward to my full recovery and feeling better. Thank you again!
M.C. of Williamsburg, MI
I am so glad I had this surgery! I feel great and really felt well right away after surgery. The healing process had been painless and quick. I would recommend this surgery.
K.L. of Elk Rapids, MI
Dr. Nowak goes out of his was to make sure your comfortable after surgery. I was doing minor things around the house the house with in a few days after surgery.
I do work outside the home and was instructed to take 2-4 weeks off. I did need three weeks to feel good enough to go back to work. You have four very small incisions on your abdomen.
L.M. of Traverse City, MI
I had robotic surgery done by the best. Dr. Nowak took the time to listen to my health concerns and my questions. Dr Nowak gave me a thorough examination, answered all my health questions, and explained my needed surgery with great detail.
Kathryn (pre-surgical nurse)is very knowledgeable of all Dr. Nowak’s surgical procedures. She sits down with you and explains your pre-surgical instructions. Paperwork with instructions and brochures are given to you. This is very helpful.
L.O. of Beulah, MI
Dr. Nowak came highly recommended for this surgery. He’s “the man” to do it in our community. The experience was great from pre-op education to post-op care. Dr. Nowak and staff are the best.
K.B. of Traverse City, MI
Everything went great. After the first week no pain meds and feeling good. Very little discomfort after. Two weeks healing was a nice recoup.
J.H of Mesick, MI
I had a great experience with all the da Vinci team. Dr. Nowak was very I had while in the hospital. Overall I had a great experience doing my hysterectomy this way.
M.B. of Bellaire, MI
The care I received at The Women’s Health Pavilion was top-notch. Dr. Nowak and his entire staff are very caring informative and helpful. I felt very prepared for my surgery and was not anxious knowing that I was in expert hands. His staff does excellent pre-operative teaching and I was comfortable at home because I knew what to expect. I’ve experienced no post-operative complications and am recovering nicely. My only regret is that I didn’t have the surgery sooner. Thank you Dr. Nowak and staff for my excellent care.
M.H. of Williamsburg, MI
I want to share my personal experience about not only my surgery but, how much respect I have for Dr. Nowak and his staff with how they treated me. I had several appointments with Dr. Nowak where we discussed my options. The bottom line was to correct a big problem and do it in the least invasive way possible. Which is where I was introduced to the new technique of using the da Vinci (The Robot). Having surgery by a robot I wasn’t comfortable with at first. But, I trust Dr. Nowak and knew if he felt it would be safe and least invasive then it was a good decision. I had experienced such a horrible time with an abdominal surgery and could not believe how easy this really was. My stay in the hospital was only 24 hours. I had restrictions when released. However, the way I felt after a week was like I should be healed. I have always trusted Dr. Nowak and, this new technology far surpassed the old methods. Thanks so much Dr. Nowak you are so appreciated.
D.M. of Cedar, MI
Dr. Nowak and the staff were very knowledgeable and helpful in preparing me for surgery. They answered any and all questions I had, never once making me feel insecure. The staff and doctor were also available with just a phone call. My surgery was successful and way less invasive than expected. My body healed quickly and no side effects. I highly recommend this office and the da Vinci procedure.
D.W. of Kalkaska, MI
Dr. Nowak’s office was great! I felt like I finally found a doctor that could take care of my pain and not brush it aside as if it was just part of getting older. Things that helped during my recovery process at home were having multiple ice packs available for my abdomen and keeping a case of water in the refrigerator so that I could stay easily hydrated without lifting anything heavy. Two weeks after surgery and I am almost pain free.
S.A. of Bellaire, MI
Dr. Nowak’s expertise with the daVinci surgery was wonderful. This was my second surgery and the recovery time seemed much easier with the daVinci method. The staff was wonderful especially Kathryn letting me know what to expect and precautions to help after the surgery. Thank You all! I feel so much better now.
S.D. of Traverse City, MI
My experience with Dr. Nowak was great. My surgery and post-surgery went very smoothly. I had some post-surgery questions that were quickly answered by his staff. If you have any questions before or after surgery do not hesitate to call them. The most important thing I did was rest, rest, and rest after surgery.
M.T. of Manistee, MI
Dr. Nowak’s office staff has been very helpful in preparing me for my surgery. Dr. Nowak and the staff at Munson Medical Center were terrific and I was treated and cared for very well. My overall experience was great and I would recommend Dr. Nowak to anyone looking to have a hysterectomy.
C.M. of Sault St. Marie, MI
The staff was very warm and welcoming to me, very helpful with any of the questions I had about the surgery. I was very impressed at how fast they were able to get me in to have surgery. My recovery time was also fast. I’m very happy with the outcome and the staff. I came up from Cadillac because I had heard so many wonderful things about them. And, i am very thankful I came here.
K.R. of Cadillac, MI
The surgery went exactly like the nurses and Dr. Nowak told me it would. The explanation of surgery was exact and very descriptive. My advice to anyone thinking of this surgery is to listen to what they tell you and don’t do anything during your recovery. Just rest.
DR. NOWAK ROCKS!!
T.P. of Traverse City, MI
I found the robotic surgery to be amazing. I had no complications following surgery. I was very happy with my recovery and short 2 day hospital stay. I would recommend this procedure to anyone that is having surgery. Dr. Nowak and Kathryn’s helpfulness and professionalism helped me a great deal with the first surgery I have ever had.
J.M. of Traverse City, MI
I had surgery done by the da Vinci robot method. It has been a month and my recovery has been great. I did not have much pain and I felt really good after. I would recommend and woman needing surgery for vaginal prolapse to look into it with Dr. Nowak.
R.K. of Reed City, MI
I am very pleased with my hysterectomy. I have had little (if any) concerns. Dr. Nowak was very supportive and informative about the procedure. He explained the benefits of the da Vinci and everything he said has been right on. The preoperative nurse was also very informative and thorough. I was almost pain free by the fifth day post-op, and am looking forward to life with out periods. After considering this procedure for over a year, I am very happy and thankful that I went ahead with it.
M.H. of Rapid City, MI
My experience was great. Dr. Nowak has given me my life back. I am a very active 72 year old with a family history of ovarian cancer, in which my mother passed away from. When I realized something wasn’t right due to back aches and a prolapsed bladder I headed to Dr. Nowak.
I learned that in addition to a prolapsed bladder I had a prolapsed uterus that was interfering with my rectal function. Dr. Nowak performed a hysterectomy with removal of my ovaries and repair to all that was prolapsing. My back pain is gone and I feel like a new person. All of this was effecting more than I ever imagined. So, please don’t suffer with these conditions. Get your life back!
D.R. of Brethren, MI
The surgery was exactly as described and for the most part I followed the postoperative instructions. But, I will add I’ve had 4 c-sections and was able to move around better than after the hysterectomy. After about a week and a half I was feeling pretty good and the overall experience achieved the results that I was hoping for.
A.M. of Interlochen, MI
I had a robotic assisted hysterectomy with next to no pain. I didn’t take any pain medication and had no complications. I feel great and am glad it is done.
M.B. of McBain, MI
I am a mature retired lady who never had surgery before and was very apprehensive, but knew I needed it. After learning many great reports about Dr. Nowak and the da Vinci procedure I went for it.
I had a very positive experience, little pain and after only three weeks am back doing most everything. Pretty great for an “older girl”. Thank you Dr. Nowak for being so caring and doing a great job; thank you also for your great staff.
I.S. of Atlanta, MI
My experience with Dr. Nowak and office staff has been great. Right after surgery I didn’t have pain and was back on my feet the very next day. Thank you Dr. Nowak!
K.B. of Onekama, MI
I recently had a hysterectomy performed by Dr. Nowak using the da Vinci robot. I was very pleased with the results and amazed by the quick recovery that allowed me to return to my normal activities in a very short time. During all my preoperative and postoperative consultations I was well informed and felt prepared. Dr. Nowak’s staff is friendly and
professional.
N.M. of Kingsley, MI
” I wish i’d known about Dr. Nowak ten years ago.”
F.S. of Kingsley, MI
” The staff prepared me very well, both preoperative and postoperative. The procedures were almost pain free. I couldn’t believe it. My energy was almost too good. The lifting, vacuuming, and carrying restrictions were hard not to do. The stay at Munson and the staff were great. Dr. Nowak was very thorough and listened to all my concerns.”
J.G. of Elk Rapids, MI
” My da Vinci surgery was simply painless. I was amazed!! Excellent care from Dr. Nowak.”
C.B. of Cadillac, MI
” I very much appreciated Dr. Nowak and his team for making surgery as easy as they have. My questions and concerns were taken into consideration and my healing is better each day now.”
H.M. of Reed City, MI
” I had a hysterectomy with the da Vinci where they use a robot to assist in surgery. I have five incisions in my belly. I was really sore at first. I recommend that you do nothing but rest the whole first week after surgery. If it is not possible to rest after surgery then do as little as you can. Have people carry everything for you. The more time that goes by the better I feel. Just don’t lift stuff and listen to the doctor as much as possible. Dr. Nowak did my surgery. I think he is a great doctor and very easy to talk to. He is very nice and explains everything to your family. I’m still having cramps and am sore but getting better. The ice is really important the first week.”
T.H. of Traverse City, MI
“I was very impressed that Dr. Nowak scheduling staff members spent almost an hour with me explaining the procedures and post operative instructions. The office staff was always friendly. Dr. Nowak was on time and caring. After surgery while in the hospital I never needed to use the morphine drip that was provided for pain. I was just sore not in pain. I was up walking the next day and my recovery progressed rapidly from that point on. Dr. Nowak only does what is necessary and that was a concern of mine.”
D.B. of Kewadin, MI
“Dr. Nowak and his office staff are top notch. My surgery(s) was explained to me in detail. I left feeling well informed and confident that everything would go great and it did. Dr. Nowak has been my doctor for 25 years and I trust him with my life. My surgery was two and a half weeks ago and I am back to work and most of my normal activities. This was the best decision, I feel great. I owe it all to Dr. Nowak. Thank you!”
Sue Hurlburt of Manton, MI
-Robotic assisted vaginal hysterectomy
-Robotic assisted uterosacral colpopexy
-Repeat anterior & posterior colporrhaphy
-Bladder sling
CHECK OUT OUR LINKS PAGE TO SEE DR. NOWAKS UPCOMING APPEARANCES!
“The robot with Dr. Nowak was the best thing I’ve had done. I had no pain. The hardest part is remembering not to do too many things like vacuuming and other household chores.”
L.M. of Cadillac, MI
BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR LINKS PAGE FOR UPCOMING APPEARANCES OF DR. NOWAK AND THE da VINCI!!
Dr. Nowak,
Thank you so much for helping me with my situation. I am so grateful to have found a doctor like you. I don’t know what I would have done without you. In one week (after recovering) I went from being miserable to being a totally different, happy person. I can’t thank you enough. When others wouldn’t even squeeze me in , you did and fixed the problem. Thanks again!
-M.C. of Morgan Town, WV
“My surgical experience was one of little to no pain. I feel wonderful after 4 weeks of recovery! Dr. Nowak worked wonders. I believe he has a God-Given talent! I only took a few Motrin after I got home and took a short walk after being home for 4 days! Thank you for helping me – I feel great!”
– K.B. of Alpena, Michigan
“Only the best and most positive of comments. From the first visit with Dr. Nowak through pre-testing, surgery and a short hospital stay, every step was wonderful. No abdominal discomfort at all. Needed very little pain medications at home. Thank you to Dr. Nowak and his staff!”
– S.E. of Traverse City, Michigan
“I had the daVinci robotic surgery on February 24, 2012. Of course, I was nervous and anguished as to how I would feel during my recovery or post-op. My pain was very tolerable, to say the least. Not as bad as I had imagined. After 2 ½ weeks of taking it easy, I was feeling so good that I had to keep reminding myself that I couldn’t do “this” or couldn’t do “that,” because I was still healing inside. I would recommend anyone not to be afraid. My experience with Dr. Nowak and his staff was excellent!”
- S.C. of Falmouth, Michigan
“I was extremely happy with everything Dr. Nowak explained to me regarding my daVinci operation. He was very detailed and had pictures of the procedure. It made me feel good to know what he was going to do and how long it would take. The office staff was very sweet and answered all of my questions when I called and when I was in the office.”
– M.W. of Rapid City, Michigan
“When I came to the Women’s Health Pavilion, I was informed 100% of what to be ready for with the daVinci procedure. The office got me emotionally ready. Thank you so much!”
– S.O. of Traverse City, Michigan
I have found Dr. Nowak’s office to be very helpful, from my first exam to my last exam after surgery. My pre-op appointment with Kathryn was most informative. She walked me through every step so I knew what to expect. The post-operative time was not nearly as uncomfortable as I expected it to be. Dr. Nowak was great about pain control and sees that his staff is knowledgeable for the patients. If anyone needs a hysterectomy, I highly recommend Dr. Nowak for this procedure. I have already suggested him to my friend that may need it.
– E.N. of Grayling, Michigan
Only the best and most positive of comments. From the first visit with Dr. Nowak through pre-testing, surgery and a short hospital stay, every step was wonderful. No abdominal discomfort at all. Needed very little pain medications at home. Thank you to Dr. Nowak and his staff! – S.E. of Traverse City, Michigan
I had a very good experience. The Doctor was awesome about explaining everything and answering all of my questions. The surgical staff made me feel completely comfortable and other than a couple very small scars, you can’t even tell I had surgery! – S.S. of Fife Lake, Michigan
My surgical experience was one of little to no pain. I feel wonderful after 4 weeks of recovery! Dr. Nowak worked wonders. I believe he has a God-Given talent! I only took a few Motrin after I got home and took a short walk after being home for 4 days! Thank you for helping me – I feel great! – K.B. of Alpena, Michigan
Patients considering surgery have found it helpful to review testimonials on our webpage and Facebook from women like you. We would love for you to share your thoughts about our office and your overall surgical experience/ outcome.
Thank You! -Dr. Nowak
I had the robotic surgery and it went well. I did not have too much pain and healed fast… At almost 6 weeks since my surgery I feel back to normal.
R.D. -Williamsburg
The office did a very good job preparing me for surgery. I had a very good understanding of what to expect. This helped me and my family to feel comfortable and eliminated stress. The recovery time was quick and I felt very good leaving the hospital the day after surgery.
C.W. - Cedar
As in any surgical experience I was a little scared. But, I am so glad I had it done. The pain I felt after surgery was nothing compared to what I was putting up with. The healing time was quick. If you need it done…. please do it!
T.L. - Alanson
I have been very pleased with the outcome of my surgery. At four weeks I have eliminated Imodium from my daily med intake and prolapse has been corrected. Thank you Dr. Nowak.
K.C. - Roscommon
Dr. Nowak and his entire office staff made my DaVinci hysterectomy experience a positive one. Very caring yet professional. I felt comfortable and secure going ahead with the procedure. The outcome has changed my life. After a positive almost painless recovery I ahve renewed energy and an optimistic outlook toward the future that I haven’t felt in years.
M.J.S. - Traverse City
After having abdominal surgery in the past requiring cutting through the abdominal muscles the robotic surgery technique is definitly an easier recovery. The ability to move about is much less painful and the overall recovery time is much much quicker. Thank goodness for this advance in surgical technology.
D.M. - Traverse City
Dr. nowak was awesome! Very concerned about how you are feeling before and after surgery. He is very easy to talk to and made it very comfortable to ask questions.
B.C. -Sault St Marie
Dr Nowak,
Thank you for a great job in redoing my body. I told Ken it’s like the 8th wonder of the world to have my parts back where they belong and functioning normal.
Thank you again,
KW
Four weeks ago I had the Da Vinci Robotic Hysteretomy. I had a prolapsed uterus and it was also effecting my bladder and bowels. After removing my uterus, my bladder was okay and did not need any additional repairs. I did not have any pain nor did I take any pain medication during my recovery. Before surgery I had some anxiety about how would I function after surgery, would I be in lots of pain, never having any type of surgery before? Would I be able to function and take care of myself and my dog? Family came in for a few days along with friends and I could not believe how well I was feeling. At my four week check up Dr. Nowak gave me the okay to resume my normal activies, walking the dog 3-5 miles per day, playing tennis, cleaning my house etc. I would like to thank Dr. Nowak and his staff for the wonderful care I received. I would highly recommend Dr. Nowak and using the Da Vinci method.
Three weeks ago I had the Da Vinci hysterectomy, this was one of the best things I have done. I am 45 years old and have been suffering with long heavy bleeding periods,and large fibroids. I have put this off for several years due to the long recovery time. I was amazed with this procedure.. I went in the hospital on friday and was home saturday with very little pain. I was back to my office job within a week, I also had not problem driving. I cannot believe I waited so long. I feel great**** I would recommend this procedure to anyone. Dr. Nowak was absolutely wonderful. Thank-You
Back in Aug. of this year I had the DiVinci Robotic Hysterectomy done. As everyone else I didn’t know what to expect. I was scared for nothing. The staff at Munson was great. Put me a ease from start to finish. Dr. Nowak did a wonderful job at making me feel comfortable. I only took my pain meds for one day. Confession, I was so bored that I was doing laundry after 1 week. I felt great but was tired quickly. Just remember, you DO need at least 4 weeks off from work. Take advantage of being waited on. Thank you Dr. You did a great job!!
Angie P.
Lake City
Dearest Dr. Nowak,
You are truely a blessing not only to me but, I see many others as well. I want to “thank you” for taking me under your wings. I can not express in words how thankful I am to have found you. A good freind of mine expressed to me she had the best “OBGYN” and I have to admit she was right! I am still in recovery and doing very well Thanks to you and the da Vinci robotic surgery. The only regret I have is I wish I had found you 20 years ago! I have never had anyone make a conscious effort to hear or make adequate time at a appointment like you have done for me. In my heart I truely beleive I have found a good physician this time. I also want to share with you and your staff. I was pushed to the side by the last OBGYN that I was really nervious calling a new office and having to explain my problems once again but, when I did they were so concerned about me that they got me in the same day I called. I have been amazed with your front desk service and your nurses they truely care about the patient. I feel so blessed to be a patient at The Womens Health Pavilion. Thank you Dr. Nowak “Your are the Best”
Sincerely, Cheryl Powell
Its been one week since I had the DaVinci Hysterectomy. I am feeling so good. I read all the testimonies before my decision and I think it’s important that I give mine. I have been experiencing heavy periods for along time now. It even landed me in the hospital once. I was full of fibroids. Surgery scared me but i had to do something. My risks were higher…I have Rheumathoid Arthritus, Atrial Fibulation and I am extremely over weight. My suggestion to you…do it. It will be the best decision you’ve ever made. My heartfelt thank you to Dr.Nowak and his team! You’ll never know how thankfull I am! God Bless!
Thank-you all for sharing your stories and your kind words. It has been my pleasure helping you!
-Dr. Nowak
Some people say Dr. Nowak has so much experience with the da Vinci robot he could perform a hysterectomy with his eyes closed. But, those who know him know he would never be so callous with someone’s life. Kelly can testify to that.
Kelly is a 36 year old wife and mother who recently came to Dr. Nowak for a second opinion for multiple gynecologic issues. She was worried because she had to have several evaluations for her condition. After a year she became very frustrated that the same observation was continually recommended and she desired definitive treatment. Dr. Nowak offered her several options and she chose the da Vinci robot.
“During the robotic hysterectomy, with it’s superior optics I noted what appeared to be an abnormal appendix. After intra-operative consult with a general surgeon, he agreed it needed to be removed. The pathology report indicated she had a carcinoid tumor of the appendix, and it appeared that I had removed all the cancer.” -William Nowak
Kelly has a unique perspective on the whole process. She is not bitter towards anyone…
“I think the first doctor did me a favor by being so conservative. He does not do robotics. Without the magnification and illumination of the da Vinci , the abnormal appendix may not have been identified. I believe Dr. Nowak is the greatest because he can offer so many options catered to a particular condition. My advice to other women is this: You have got to be proactive. Trust your instincts. If it doesn’t feel quite right seek a second opinion. If your staying with a doctor so you don’t hurt his or her feelings you may be hurting yourself. I’m so glad Dr. Nowak’s experience enabled him to identify and remove my cancer. I feel so blessed to be his patient. Keep your eyes wide open and look for the best and most experienced.”
-Kelly R. Traverse City, MI
After putting a hysterectomy off for over a year, I finally had no choice. Because of my heavy periods (often twice a month), I was finding myself having to schedule activities around them. On July 26, I had the surgery performed by Dr. Nowak using the Da Vinci robot. I went home the next morning and have never looked back. Although I had to take it easy for a couple of weeks, it wasn’t because of any pain. I can honestly say I never had to take any pain medication once I was home. Not because I was trying to be brave, but because I never had any pain - just tenderness in my belly area for a few days. If you are debating whether to have this surgery, feel free to contact me through Dr. Nowak’s office. The only thing I’m sorry about is that I put it off for so long.
Dear Dr. Nowak and Staff,
Thanks for taking on interest in urogynecology. If you hadn’t listened you wouldn’t have developed a program on interstitial cystitis (IC).The combination of medications, education, and diet modifications have allowed me to resume a normal life.
I finished my treatment two years ago and I have remained pain free. This has improved many areas in my life including my relationship with my husband. This summer I have been able to RV and travel without pain or worrying about if I might be having a bladder infection. It’s reassuring to know that I can return if I do have flair up and be welcome with open arms.
I now see how IC does not have to rule your life. If you are living with IC I strongly recommend you let the Women’s Health Pavilion heal you.
Deb C. Traverse City
“Good morning Doctor daVinci,” my 73 year-old retired teacher patient greeted me daily as I visited her post-operatively following her daVinci robotic hysterectomy. M.W. always the teacher, had devised a formulaic nick-name for me. Dr. Nowak + daVinci = Dr. DaVinci. A simple equation perhaps, one over which we immediately bonded and shared a daily laugh.
I had the honor of meeting M.W. after her family doctor referred her to me. M.W. is a unique individual who happens to be afflicted with the neurological disease, multiple sclerosis (MS). For the past 10 years, she has been confined to a motorized wheelchair. Through no fault of her own, her limited mobility has plagued her with chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs), pelvic pressure and minimal exercise which made it hard to maintain her ideal body weight. With a greatly enlarged uterus putting pressure on her bladder and complicating her hygiene, I believed a hysterectomy would benefit her. Of the six types of hysterectomy I do, I recommended the daVinci for several reasons: (1) minimal blood loss through four tiny incisions; (2) less chance of infection; (3) her forced sedentary lifestyle increased her chances for post-operative complications such as blood clots and/or a pulmonary embolism. DaVinci technology provided me with the opportunity to minimize risk by its benefits of three-dimensional visualization with 10 times magnification enabling me to view a large area as if I were three inches from the operating field.
M.W. did extremely well despite her many risk factors. She remained positive while awaiting her return home to cuddle up with her beloved cat, Izzy.
I came to appreciate M.W. as my teacher, also. She taught me about courage in the face of challenges. I cannot define her by her condition or diagnosis. I was privileged to get to know the essence of M.W. Her history of teaching our future leaders gained my respect, M.W. and all others who thrive with limited motilities are deserving of the dignity we should always bestow upon them.
I cannot cure M.W.’s MS, but I am confident that daVinci and I have helped heal her pelvic problems and I hope I have enhanced her quality of life. M.W. has generously offered to share her story with anyone interested by contacting my office, and I trust she will inspire you as much as she has me. And once again in my life, I am reminded that where there is life, there is hope.
My family doctor referred me to Dr. Nowak because I was experiencing heavy bleeding and irregular periods. An ultrasound showed that I had multiple fibroids. I had only recently heard of the “Da Vinci” hysterectomy. I had never had any type of surgery before, and wanted to avoid an invasive procedure as long as possible. Dr. Nowak and his staff provided all the information I needed to elect this new robotic-assisted surgery. They understood my concerns about anesthesia and the recovery process. Once I woke up from the surgery, I was amazed at how little pain I had. I learned that my uterus was two-and-a-half times enlarged, and I had endometriosis, which I never realized. Dr. Nowak also removed one ovary which had a benign cyst. I am 52 years old and relieved that menstrual periods are in my past! I followed the post-surgery instructions, but sometimes had to remind myself to take it easy because I felt so good. My tiny incisions are healed and I feel great. I would recommend this procedure to anyone.
Deb P
Kalkaska
Dear Dr. Nowak,
I wanted to take a minute to thank-you for helping me. Your kindness and empathy was very much appreciated. In my heart I knew everything would be okay but, you know there is the ever terrifying “what if”. Thank-you for taking time to ease my mind and make everything “all better”.
Cynthia C.