Stefanie Vaimakis, MD, FACS, FASMBS: Bariatric Surgeon
Director of Bariatric Surgery - Palisades Medical Center
Advanced Laparoscopic General Surgeon
I graduated from NYU Medical School in 1996 and went on to do a General Surgery Residency at Saint Vincent's Medical Center in New York City. I became interested in Advanced Laparoscopy and decided to pursue additional training. I did a fellowship in Advanced Laparoscopy at Montefiore Medical Center's Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery in New York. It was there that I was introduced to Bariatric Surgery.
I was amazed at the difference the surgery made in people's lives, not just physically but socially, professionally and emotionally as well. It is like no other field in surgery because it allows the surgeon to have a lifelong relationship with the patient. It is the most gratifying field because it gives me the chance to really make a difference in someone's life. Because of that, I absolutely love what I do and have dedicated myself to this field. I came to Englewood Medical Center and Holy Name Medical Center in 2002 and started my own practice in June of 2005. I am responsible for bringing the LAP-BAND to both of these hospitals. It would be a pleasure and an honor for me to help you on your journey to a healthier life.
Credentials
Board Certified in General Surgery
Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
Fellow of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (FASMBS)
Active Member of the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES)
Active Member of the Medical Society of New Jersey and the Bergen County Medical Society (MSNJ)
Active Member of the American Medical Association (AMA)
Dr. Vaimakis is fluent in Spanish and Greek and conducts consultations in both languages.
Fred Silvestri, MD, FACS: Bariatric Surgeon
Advanced Laparoscopic General Surgeon
I went to Medical School at the State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, my general surgery residency was at the Staten Island Hospital. I have Board Certification in General Surgery and Critical Care. I developed an interest in higher level laparoscopy through the years while honing these skills. I have had an interest in Bariatric Surgery since the use of minimally invasive techniques have been applied to this surgical procedure in the late 1990's. The use of laparoscopic surgery to the field of bariatric surgery has made an unbelievable difference in the lives of many people in attaining a healthier, happier lifestyle. I find this surgery to be one of the most satisfying to accomplish with its least debilitating and highly successful outcomes. I have been a practicing surgeon in the Bergen County area since 1994. I look forward to continuing to help patients in this endeavor.
Credentials:
Board Certified in General Surgery
Fellow of the American College of Surgeons
Member of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
Member of the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons
Active Member of the Medical Society of New Jersey and the Bergen
County Medical Society (MSNJ)
Duane A. Fredericks, MD: Bariatric Surgeon
Duane A. Fredericks, MD, is an ardent proponent of combining healthy lifestyle choices with the highest quality medical care. Because of this philosophy, Duane has dedicated himself to patient education and developing his surgical skills. After graduating from Temple University School of Medicine and completing a residency at the Graduate/Temple University Hospital, Duane did a fellowship in bariatric surgery at NYU studying under renowned surgeons George Fielding and Christine Ren-Fielding with a particular focus on adjustable gastric banding technique in Bariatric Surgery. He then worked for Allergan, the originators of the Lap-Band and Ethicon, the originators of the Realize Band.
Duane has unique expertise in Bariatric Surgery and uses it as a tool for changing lives. Upon his departure from NYU, Duane was actively recruited by multiple programs nationally. He has opted to bring his talents to the North Bergen community. What he appreciates most about The North Jersey Laparoscopic Associates is the close intimate relationship that the patient, staff and surgeons have among themselves, as well as the preeminent surgical skills of Dr. Vaimakis and Dr. Silvestri. He truly believes that this program is well suited to cater to all the needs of the growing Bariatric community. "We will make you feel like a person...not like a number."
Credentials:
1. Board Eligible in General Surgery
2. Candidate of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
3. Candidate of the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeon
4. Member of the American Medical Association
5. Member of the National Medical Association
6. Member of the Society of Black Academic Surgeons
Thomas Vaimakis: Executive Director
The philosophy of this practice is that every patient is treated like a member of our family. Bariatric Surgery is a lifechanging event and the process needs to be done with caring, patience, and attention to each patient. We strongly believe in providing an atmosphere of caring and individualized attention that sets us apart from everyone else. I am responsible for every aspect of this practice and I will personally make sure that everyone has a positive experience here with us. I will also make sure that each patient is explained and understands every aspect of the process. Should you need my assistance to discuss a bill or even just to understand the system I am here to guide you through. I strongly believe a person without ambition is a person sailing on a boat on the mercy of its tides…So believe in yourself and allow me to help you to realize your dreams.
Alicia Rodriguez-Barrera, PA-C
I came from Madrid, Spain to Houston, TX with a scholarship to play NCAA basketball at the University of Houston. I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelors in Business Administration and worked in the corporate world for a few years until I decided to pursue a career in Medicine. I graduated from Weill Cornell Graduated School of Medical Sciences in NYC with a Masters in Physician Assistant studies. As a Physician Assistant, I will work closely with the surgeons and follow your journey from your first consult with us all the way to your follow-up visits. I feel passionate about helping you reach your goals and help you succeed in this exciting journey.
Gaspar Rosario, NP-C: Bariatric Nurse Practitioner
Gaspar Rosario is the nurse practitioner with New York's Leading Weight Management Program and founder of Access Weight-Loss Care, (AWLC) Inc. AWLC was established to provide gastric banding patients with the most affordable and best follow-up care possible, regardless of who performed their Gastric Banding procedure. Gaspar Rosario has proudly joined Dr. Stefanie Vaimakis and the North Jersey Laparoscopic Associates in order to provide the highest quality of care to their patients on the weekend. Gaspar will be performing this invaluable service to North Jersey Laparoscopic Associates, while honoring his commitment and dedication to his NYU bariatric program.
Gaspar's relentless pursuit of care for the morbidly obese patient comes after a personal, lifelong struggle with obesity. Gaspar Rosario started his career in the field of bariatrics after having his LAP-BAND surgery. Personally losing one hundred pounds, and gaining full confidence in the effectiveness of the LAP-BAND system, Gaspar shares his experiences from both perspectives as a patient and as a care provider. Gaspar Rosario's professional career spans from surgical ICU nursing, to nursing supervisor before joining his collaborating physicians, Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, Dr. George Fielding and Dr. Marina Kurian, in managing thousands of bariatric patients. Gaspar is a bariatric care consultant and faculty member for Allergan Medical, the manufacturers of the LAP-BAND System, for whom he lectures and teaches surgeons and allied health professionals alike, in the art of performing LAP-BAND adjustments and followup care.
Gaspar Rosario received his Bachelor's in Nursing Science from Lehman College CUNY and his Master's in Nursing Science in Adult Health Nurse Practitioner from Hunter College in New York. Gaspar is an active member and speaker for the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. An inductee to Sigma Theta Tau, (National Nursing Honor Society) and certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Gaspar is also involved in precepting nurse practitioner students as well as conducting ongoing bariatric nursing education series' for the nursing staff. Gaspar Rosario is also a contributing writer for the New YoU Newsletter and active participant in bariatric research and coauthor of several papers and abstracts selected for ASMBS presentations. His knowledge and experience, both as a patient and as a clinician, has made Gaspar Rosario, MSN, NP-C, an expert in the field of bariatrics.
"It is a tremendous honor and a blessing to have the opportunity to work with Dr. Vaimakis and the NJLA team in providing the best care possible to our patients. Dr. Vaimaikis' commitment to and care for patients is the care model that I have been accustomed to, making the decision to join the NJLA an easy one. I am especially excited about providing care to the patients of Dr. Vaimakis as well as many established Access Weight Loss Care patients."
Stephanie Greenspan, MS, RD
I obtained a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Communication from the University of Maryland at College Park, and a Master of Science degree in Nutrition from Brooklyn College. I completed my Dietetic Internship at Brooklyn College. I am a member of the American Dietetic Association.
Helping people achieve a healthy lifestyle is a true passion of mine. Adjusting the way we eat can have a huge impact, both mentally and physically. Good nutrition can be achieved by eating a healthful diet, and it is a privilege of mine to help to guide you through that. Now, as a part of the North Jersey Laparoscopic family, I am also able to help patients combine bariatric surgery with proper nutrition to help achieve an optimal outcome. It is so important to eat properly following surgery to maximize the results, and what a pleasure it is to watch patients transform their lives. I look forward to helping each and every one of you achieve your nutritional goals!
Stella Zagata-Fee: Surgical Coordinator
I've been a medical assistant for the past 13 years and have worked in various types of practices. My start was in internal medicine and obstetrics & gynecology. I worked for a plastic surgery & bariatric surgery practice for 5 years before joining Dr. Vaimakis and her team. I've been with Dr. Vaimakis since 2008 and in the field of bariatric surgery for 7 years now. I find the field of bariatric surgery to be the most rewarding and plan to stay in this area of medicine for years to come. I went to school for medical assisting at Berdan Institute in Totowa, NJ and recently graduated from Bergen Community College in Paramus, NJ with my Associates in Science. I plan to attend Fairleigh Dickinson University in the fall of 2010 to peruse my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I look forward to working with you to reach your goals!
Sandra Bryant: Insurance and Precertification Specialist
Working with general and bariatric patients and their insurance coverage is a perfect opportunity to combine knowledge and a love for people. Having worked over 20 years for major corporate healthcare insurance carriers has been great, but nothing could be more fulfilling than to see lives change and individuals enjoy a better quality of life. Being a part of a team that helps to make dreams come true is what it's all about.
Maria Nancy Mauro: Insurance Specialist Assistant
I am a Medical Assistant who has been working in plastic and bariatric surgery for the past 5 years. I love to work with bariatric patients because nothing is more fulfilling than to see lives change and better quality of life return to patients. I went to School for Medical Assistant at HoHoKus Medical School in Hackensack, NJ. I am currently in school at East Wick College for Surgical Technician. I love to help with insurance verification, pre-certification authorization because I know that can be very stressful for patients and I enjoy helping others. I speak Spanish and English.
Tammy Gomez
Following graduation as a Medical Assistant from Eastwick College in 2008, I have continued attending the college studying for my Associates Degree in Surgical Technology. I have been working as an Insurance Specialist at North Jersey Laparascopic Associates for more than one year now, and it has been the most fulfilling experience I have encountered. There is nothing that compares to the joy of being able to assist patients in gaining their approval for bariatric surgery.
Patty Andriopoulos: Marketing & Billing
I find it a great fulfillment to be a part of a team that cares so deeply for each patient that walks through our door. I have been in the field of people relations for over 20 years; it's a delight for me to meet and talk to different patients everyday whose lives have been transformed by our heartwarming doctors. As Marketer, I will make sure you are updated with our latest events; You will know when our next Doctor/Patient softball game will be, you will know of all the fitness programs we have established for you and when our next happening will be. As Biller, I will make sure your bills get processed smoothly. You will enter as a patient but leave as a friend. It's bliss for me to go to work.
John Bernal: Patient Relations
Working in this practice gives me a feeling of being part of a family, from everyone at the office to every patient that walks through our doors. I never had a full understanding of how much Bariatric surgery could change someone's life but by seeing everyone that looks for our Doctors' expertise, I have a whole new understanding of how this is one of the most rewarding career path anyone can be part of. With the better knowledge of how anybody can be part of something so amazing, I have decided to seek a career in the field of medicine and hope to be able to help everyone that is part of our family for many more years to come. I will also like to thank every single one of you for allowing us to be part of each individual journey to a healthier life, thanks a million.
Sharon Bernal: Patient Relations
Working at Dr. Vaimakis' practice has opened my eyes to a new opportunity and I found that I really enjoy the field of bariatric surgery. Working with patients and helping them achieve their goals while seeing them changing their lifestyle has helped me grow as a person. As a result of working in the medical field I have allowed myself to gain a better perspective on my career path and what I will be studying in the Fall. Being able to work with patients that are interested in bariatric surgery has become a wonderful experience.
Claudia Sanchez: Patient Relations
I am a Medical Assistant who loves the field of bariatric surgery because I see the changes patients undergo to positively change their lives. I enjoy interacting with the patients on a daily basis and helping them throughout this journey. Working with Dr. Vaimakis and her team is a great opportunity to see people transform their lives. I speak Spanish and English and I am looking forward seeing you!
Robin Robison Dillard: Bariatric Patient Mentor
Because your success is important to us, as the Bariatric Patient Mentor I am available to assist you with any questions you might have concerning your transition to life after weight-loss surgery. Our doctors feel strongly that during the first few weeks after your surgery one-on-one support is very important. Initially, I will stop by during your hospital stay and later I will be available to you as needed. We can meet for a cup of coffee, take a walk, communicate through email, or you might want to reach me on my cell phone.
As a patient of Dr. Vaimakis' with weight-loss surgery experience, I understand the feelings, issues, and concerns you might have before, during, and after surgery. Weight-loss surgery is a life changing decision and all new territory for those of us that have been obese most of our lives. You will need to take special care of your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs during your weight-loss journey. Your relationships (family and other social situations) may change as you change. Undoubtedly, you will need to address longstanding habits, behaviors and beliefs to ensure your long-term success. As the Bariatric Patient Mentor I will be available to assist you in customizing a post-surgery support plan that will address the areas where you need support.
Your decision to have weight-loss surgery signals a new beginning and we are here for you.
Liz Clingham: Metabolic Weight Loss Fitness Instructor
I am passionate about movement and living a healthy lifestyle. I look at food as a way to fuel my body. I believe exercising is both mental and physical. I recognize that exercise is a mood elevator for me. Sweating is a good thing. Weight loss is a simple equation of output must exceed input. I believe in earning my shower everyday. I want to be around people who either feel the same way or are searching for that feeling. My favorite ways to exercise involve some type of group exercise, people working towards a similar goal and having music involved.
I am here to inspire and guide you as you embark on a new healthy lifestyle. Post surgery, exercise is a must to achieve your goals. You are about to encounter many changes; Exercise can powerfully impact your ability to successfully navigate these changes.
Exercise is personal. My role is to help you decide what type of exercise will personally fit your needs. It needs to be safe, appropriate to your fitness level, results producing and something that you can make part of your everyday life. If diet and exercise have failed you in the past a new approach is necessary.
Donna E. Dalgetty, MD
From an early age, Dr. Donna E. Dalgetty knew she wanted to be a physician and would later discover her passion would lead her to the world of Psychiatric Medicine. With an affinity for the general mental health and overall well-being of others, her focus is multi-layered and driven by compassion, honesty and dedication with a heart for helping to guide and bring healing to others.
Dr. Dalgetty provides both therapy and medication to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. She understands the critical need to bridge the gap between the individual, the family, their medicinal needs and the many issues that lay hidden in between the lines of peoples' lives.
Double Board Certified in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry; and a Member of the American Board of Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists, Dr. Dalgetty attended North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina majoring in Chemistry. She received her Medical Degree from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Medical School; and later completed her residencies in Adult Psychiatry at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the Albert Einstein School of Medicine.
With her private practice set in Englewood Cliffs, NJ, Dr. Dalgetty has been married for 16 years and has 3 children.
510 Sylvan Ave, Suite 205
Englewood, NJ 07632
917-359-8973
Michael Sakowitz, PhD: Clinical Psychologist
Wayne: 973-696-5668
Lincoln Park: 973-696-0800
Paramus: 973-696-3592
Initial Consultation Fee: $175
Frank Santos, MD: Psychiatrist
115 River Road, Building 3
Edgewater, NJ 07020
Phone: 201-941-4405
Initial Consultation Fee: $150
Lauren Balkin Cohen, MS, RD CDN: Director of Nutrition
I received my bachelor of science in Community Health from Hofstra University and a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition and Food Science from NYU. I received my training as a registered dietician from New York Presbyterian Hospital-Cornell Campus. I earned a certificate in Adult Weight Management from the American Dietetic Association. I am a member of the American Dietetic Association, The New Jersey Dietetic Association and The Nutrition Entrepreneurs and the Women's Health Dietary Practice Group.
My areas of expertise include weight management, polycystic ovarian syndrome and eating disorders. I believe that my mission is to help transform people's lives through nutritional counseling. I take my client's lifestyles into account and take great time and care into learning about each and every one of my clients. My counseling encompasses much more than merely food and diet analysis. I act as a weight management coach, but also incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy in my practice. It would be my greatest pleasure to help you achieve your goals.
Check out Lauren's website www.laurencohennutrition.com
Eric T. Horbatuck, BS, CSCS: Fitness Consultant
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (C.S.C.S.)
Certified Professional Member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
Health and Safety Instructor for the American Red Cross
Eric graduated from Ramapo College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in January 2007. He has had extensive experience as a Health & Safety Instructor for the American Red Cross, having taught courses in Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, First Aid, Emergency Oxygen Administration, swimming and water safety for nearly a decade. As a strength and conditioning specialist, Eric has worked with people of all different ages and ability levels, helping his clients achieve their individual goals, whatever they may be. He has several years experience working in a clinical orthopedic physical rehabilitation setting as a physical therapy aide and has also worked with numerous collegiate athletes.
David Abramson, MD: Plastic Surgeon
David Abramson was born in New York City and raised in Tenafly, New Jersey where he received his early education. A good student, he was accepted at The Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore where he completed his undergraduate studies and graduated Phi Beta Kapa. He continued his education at New York University School of Medicine where he received his degree in 1988, serving as his graduating class President.
Following medical school, Dr. Abramson completed a residency in General Surgery at the State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn (Downstate). In 1993 he moved to Boston, Massachusetts where he embarked upon a residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the prestigious Harvard/Brigham/Children's Division of Plastic Surgery.
After completing his residency, he continued at Harvard/Brigham to complete a fellowship in Craniofacial Surgery. While in Boston, Dr. Abramson held a faculty appointment at Harvard Medical School.
Following his post-graduate work at Harvard, Dr. Abramson was anxious to return to his native New York. Today he practices at his offices in Manhattan and Englewood, New Jersey. Dr. Abramson currently holds the position Associate Professor of Surgery and has spent several years as the Chairman of the Division of Plastic Surgery at the State University of New York. He is honored to have held the distinction of being the Program Director of the oldest Plastic Surgery residency in the United States established in 1947. Having published more than 30 articles and book chapters on various topics in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Abramson has become a popular guest lecturer at area hospitals and residency programs on current trends in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Additionally, Dr. Abramson, an innovator has described new techniques for facelift, abdominoplasty, breast reduction and breast reconstruction.
Dr. Abramson is certified by: The American Board of Plastic Surgery
Norberto Luke Soto, MD: Plastic Surgeon
Norberto Luke Soto, MD is a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Dr. Soto's academic accomplishments include his grauation from Rutgers College of Pharmacy, summa cum laude. He later obtained his Doctorate of Medicine from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey as a member of the prestigious honor society, Alpha Omega Alpha. After medical school graduation, Dr. Soto went through years of extensive training in General Surgery and Plastic Surgery, gaining invaluable experience in Philadelphia at Temple University Hospital, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and Fox Chase Cancer Center. He then completed a Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship at Albany Medical Center Hospital in Albany, New York.
Dr. Soto has returned to his native Northern New Jersey to open a private practice. His practice offers a complete range of plastic surgical care including cosmetic procedures, reconstructive surgery, and hand surgery. Dr. Soto offers those who seek self-improvement a chance to have the concept of their self-defined beauty become a reality. He presents those inflicted by accidents the chance to obtain their original image, and those born with physical defects an opportunity to fit into a "physical" mainstream world. Being fluent in Spanish, he is also able to offer many patients the individual and considerate relationship they seek in a physician who understands their language and culture.
Whether necessitated by a medical condition or to enhance one’s appearance and self-image, the decision to undergo a surgical procedure is an extremely important and personal one. Dr. Soto believes it is critical to fully connect with the patient's goals, expectations, and aesthetic perceptions prior to surgery in order to achieve the best surgical results. It is Dr. Soto's intention to provide a private and comfortable atmosphere for all his patients throughout their entire surgical experience, striving to provide personalized, quality plastic surgery care to his patients with the warmth and compassion they deserve.
HOSPITAL AFFILIATIONS
Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, Englewood
Holy Name Medical Center, Teaneck
Palisades Medical Center, North Bergen
Pascack Valley Hospital, Westwood
The Valley Hospital, Ridgewood
Check out Dr. Soto's website www.docsoto.com
