Alexander Shifrin, MD - Patient Comments

Patient Comments	Sign

"I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and Graves Disease in September 2011. My endocronologist referred me to Dr. Shifrin because I also had 2 nodules that had their own blood supply. Dr. Shifrin and I discussed my options and he performed the biopsy of the two nodules. We also scheduled a surgery date of Dec 8th, 2011. The biopsy was clear, and I had the surgery on Dec 8th. After surgery, the pain that I felt in the left side of my body ( neck. shoulder, side, back, knees and leg) was completely gone. I haven't had any pain since the surgery. The sweating has almost stopped...about 90%. And the tremors and the heart palpitations are getting fewer and fewer. Surgery was a great option for me because I didn't like the idea of nodules in my thyroid that were growing and had their own blood supply and I didn't like the characteristics of the side effects of the other medications. At the follow up appointment with Dr. Shifrin two weeks after the surgery, he gave me the pathology report. Dr. Shifrin told me there were two nodules, one a 0.1cm and the other a 0.2 cm, that were found to be cancerous. These were two other nodules other than the ones that were biopsied. So now I'm very happy that I followed through with the surgery, because we didn't know what was in the thyroid gland and because it was removed. Dr. Shifrin got everything out! I was very relieved and happy and shocked (because I never thought I would hear the cancer report!) all at the same time. I can't begin to describe how happy I've been with Dr. Shrifrin and my experience at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Everything was wonderful. And as I said to Dr. Shifrin...not only did he change my life, he saved it! Thanks again!"

-- Suzanne Clark (Toms River, NJ)

"On September 8, 2011, I had one of my parathyroid glands removed because it was robbing calcium from my bones and my chance of breaking a bone was increased. On my first visit to Dr. Shifrin's office, I found the staff to be friendly and caring. When I met Dr. Shifrin I was immediately impressed with his professionalism and his way of explaining what the parathyroid removal process would be so that I could understand exactly what was going to happen. On the day of my surgery, I was not nervous at all because I knew I was in good hands. Dr. Shifrin talked to my wife and I about how long the surgery would last and what to expect post-surgery. Since the procedure, I have had no pain whatsoever and feel really good. If you need surgery of this kind, you cannot do better than Dr. Shifrin. I would also like to mention that Jersey Shore University Hospital has to be the friendliest hospital I have ever experienced. The day of the surgery, the receptionist at the front desk gave us directions to the surgical waiting area. We were going in that direction when a nice young lady stopped and asked us if we knew where we were going. Although we said we did, she stopped what she was doing and stayed with us until we got the right place. I have never experienced such a kind and caring experience in a hospital before. In closing, I would just like to say that Jersey Shore University Medical Center and Dr. Shifrin are just the best and you can be confident that you will be well taken care of."

-- David Kerr (Whiting, New Jersey)

"On January 21, 2011, Dr. Alexander Shifrin, performed surgery on me to remove a parathyroid gland that was causing my body to produce excess calcium. The pre-admission screening was smooth and supportive. The surgical procedure was painless and Dr. Shifrin's incision (according to my wife) left little or no scar. The same day surgery staff was comforting. Dr. Shifrin explained my problem to me in consultation and in detail explained the role of the thyroid gland, the parathyroid gland and the hidden dangers of excess calcium. On the day of surgery he visited me in the preparation area and spoke to my wife after surgery and explained the successful results. I found the surgery experience to actually be pleasant, not uncomfortable in the least and thanks to Dr. Shifrin's skills theraputic. With my calcium under control, I feel much better with improved energy and disposition. Thank You Dr. Shifrin. My endocrinologist, described Dr. Shifrin's surgical procedure as "magic" compared to surgical procedures in years past for parathyroid removal. How very fortunate Jersey Shore University Medical Center is to have such a talented surgeon as Dr. Shifrin. Joe Iosca"

-- Joseph Iosca (Wall Twp. NJ)

"Hi, my name is Diane Kehn and I had been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism with a toxic nodule nine years ago. I kept putting off treatment with the hope of healing myself through holistic means. But no matter how many cruciferous vegetables I was eating to try to suppress my T4/T3 levels, nothing was working. My endocrinologist suggested that I have the RAI treatment but I was resistant. I tried methimazole but had to stop because it became my liver became toxic. I prayed about it and left it in God’s hands. That’s when I made an appointment with Dr. Shifrin. I was not only impressed with Dr. Shifrin’s outstanding background and professionalism (his whole demeanor exuded confidence and competency), but he was very patient and caring and addressed all my questions as valid concerns. He also has a witty sense of humor which put me at ease right away. I went on his website to read the reviews of other patients and called the ones that invited the reader to do so. Everyone gave positive feedback. I knew I chose the right surgeon. The day of surgery was amazing. Although I was extremely nervous (my heart rate was 119!), I felt I was with the most confident, competent, caring, and professional team! They The male anesthesiologist’s sense of humor relaxed me and the female anesthesiologist I met was very reassuring as she said it was her job to make me feel comfortable and feel no pain. I felt very encouraged and comforted by her words. Then Dr. Shifrin came in with his assistant, Dr. Young and I was wheeled into the operating room. I was told to breathe in and that was the last thing I remember until I woke up in recovery. I was then wheeled into Prep and Discharge where my husband and I were in a private area and we were offered lunch. The most unbelievable part for me was that I actually ate half of a cheese/lettuce/tomato sandwich, 2 cookies, and apple juice with no pain and no discomfort! I also could not believe I had an appetite! At 3 0’clock, Dr. Young came in to take out the stitches which was a quick removal of what felt like a band-aid across my neck. I got dressed and then we left. Thank you God for leading me to Dr. Shifrin, Dr. Young, and those two anesthesiologists, they were all great. I felt I was, literally, in perfect hands! I give anyone permission to call me directly pertaining to information about my experience. "

-- Diane Kehn (Tinton Falls NJ)

"To any patients who are anticipating surgery with Dr. Shifrin, I can assure you that you are in compasssionate and talented hands. At the begining of the month I had my thyroid removed at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. The entire experience, from my first meeting with Doctor and his willing and helpful office staff, Susan and Mandy were pleasant and very understanding. I was very impressed with the way my day of surgery went.I arrived at the beautiful state of the art surgical floor where the pleasant admitting Nurse checked me in and got me ready for surgery. I was very surprised and delighted with the next thing that happened, the entire staff that would be assisting Dr. Shifrin , came out and idividually introduced themselves to me. Each person explained what they would be doing to assist Dr. Shifrin, after that they asked if I had any questions. This was the first time that I have had that experiance and I have had many surgeries. The result of this greeting left me relaxed and trusting that the surgery would go well. I was comfortable and came out of surgery with a sore throat but no pain , I went home that night and returned to work a week later. Thank you to all for the wonderful care. I have a small disappearing scar which nobody has noticed. Dr Shifrin, you are truly a magician, thank you."

-- Suzanne Wynne (Red Bank, N.J.)

"I was diagnosed with a hyperactive thyroid in early 2000. My endocrinologist recommended having it removed but I was reluctant to have any kind of surgery. He treated is with medication until last year at which time he said that it had grown and would have to be removed ASAP. Early this year I started an internet search for a qualified surgeon. I found Dr. Shifrin's website and was impressed by his experience and credentials. I decided to email my situation to his office half hoping that I would not get a response. I sent an email on late Sunday and received a phone call from Megan first thing Monday morning. She answered all of my questions and set up an appointment for a consult. After two visits with the doctor I decided that I should go ahead with the surgery and that Dr. Shifrin was the one that should do it. He answered all of my questions and eased my concerns about surgery in general and my specific case. He advised me that he had been successfully performing this type of operation for a number of years and has worked with the same surgical team for over five years. He outline the pros and cons of my situation and we scheduled the operation. My thyroid had grown so large that they had to called in another surgeon to open my chest to allow for the removal of my growth. This was something that Dr. Shifrin had anticipated and had the surgeon on standby. The operation and recovery was longer than expected but went off without a hitch. Dr. Shifrin visited everyday during the recovery period and was even accompanied by Megan on occasion. Several weeks later I had a post op appointment to confirm that everything was going the way it should. I casually mentioned that the appointment was on my birthday. After the exam the doctor gave me some paper work that included a birthday card and when I left I found a singing mylar balloon waiting for me outside the office. I have called the office a few times since and either Megan, Susie or Mandy were eager to help even when my questions were probably not something they would normally handle. It my opinion it's very unlikely that you could find a more concerned, professional, and just plain nice group of people. My sincere thanks to Dr. Shifrin, Megan, Susie and Mandy for making an unpleasant experience bearable."

-- Frank Braun (Barnegat, NJ)

"To Dr. Shifrin, and his surgical team, I would like to express my deep appreciation and gratitude. I am 64 years old and had been enduring an enlarged thyroid goiter for many years. My family doctor had recommended that I contact Dr. Shifrin but other considerations caused this to be delayed. Last August, I suddenly experienced great difficulty breathing and rushed to the Emergency Room at Jersey Shore Medical Center. Test revealed that the goiter was restricting my trachea to a mere slit and that surgery was required. Dr. Shifrin carefully explained the test results and the impending surgical procedure and immediately assembled his team for the operation. During the 4 hour procedure, a gigantic goiter weighing nearly a pound was removed. I spent the night in Intensive Care with a breathing tube but immediately after it's removal I was able to breathe normally again and was discharged several days later. There was no problem with my vocal cords because the surgical team has special equipment to monitor them during the surgery. Thanks to Dr. Shifrin and his team, I am doing well now. It is a wonderful feeling not being restricted by this huge growth. I am very grateful to Dr. Shifrin for his surgical skills and recommend him highly to anyone requiring this type of operation. Renate Rossner, Freehold "

-- Renate Rossner (Freehold, NJ)

"IT BEEN ONE MONTH SINCE MY SURGEY. DR. SHIFRIN IS AN AMAZING DR. HE MADE SURE MY VOICE NEVER CHANGED, I HAD THE TUBE PUT UP MY NOSE AND DOWN MY THROAT AND I NEVER FELT A THING BECAUSE I WAS NUMB AFTER SURGEY THE NURSE WERE GREAT THE ALL TREAT YOU LIKE FAMILY. THERE WAS HARDLY ANY PAIN JUST DICOMFORT I NEVER TOOK THEPAIN MEDS, I ONLY TOOK ADVILL. I WENT HOME THAT NIGHT AND WENT RIGHT TO SLEEP. IT WAS A LITTLE HARD TO SWALLOW THE MEDS THAT ONLY LASTED FOR 4 DAYS. I WAS BACK ON MY FEET IN ONE WEEK AND BACK TO WORK. I FEEL SO MUCH BETTER NOW THAN I DID BEFORE SURGEY, I FEEL LIKE I DIDN'T EVEN HAVE SURGEY. MY INCISION IS 2 INCHES LONG AND LOOKS GREAT IT KEEPS GETTING BETTER EVER DAY.I AM SO GLAD I WENT TO DR SHIFRIN HE TAKES VERY GOOD CARE OF YOU AND HE TREATS YOU LIKE YOUR HIS FAMILY. THANK YOU DR SHIFRIN"

-- NICOLE MOSCHITTA (OLD BRIDGE, NJ )

"I would highly recommend Dr. Shifrin for thyroid surgery. He operated on me just three weeks ago and I feel as if I never had surgery at all! I don't remember one single thing from the time I entered the pre-op room until I woke up in the Recovery Room. This was fine for me, as I told him I was very nervous and didn't want to see the operating room at all! Dr. Shifrin assured me that I would be sedated and MIGHT remember some of the operating room and the procedure of putting the camera up my nose and down the throat and even though it would be sprayed with a numbing spray, I would probably not feel uncomfortable. But I do not remember one single thing once the anesthesiologist gave me the sedation in the pre-op room. After going to my regular room, they brought me some kind of sherbet, jello and other food. I was famished! I had no problem swallowing and my neck didn't feel numb even though I opted for the local anesthesia and IV sedation. This was an unexpected thrill for me. I left the hospital around 10:00 pm since my surgery was in the afternoon and had my prescriptions for thyroid medication in my hand. I stayed in a local motel because of the late hour and the distance. The next morning, my daughter and I stopped for breakfast at IHop! So, you see, the operation was a success......the incision was only 2 inches and I didn't look like Frankenstein when I left! The only thing that was uncomfortable later on is the surgical glue that covers the incision. It can itch for a few minutes but it comes and goes. After about 10 days or so, the glue just peels off. Please don't get nervous about having this operation. It's a breeze and you're in the best hands with Dr. Shifrin. "

-- Helen Ross (Winslow, NJ)

"It has been 6 months since my surgery. I am thankful that I chose Dr. Shifrin to do the procedure. I truly believe he is an AMAZING surgeon! If you are on the fence about having this surgery or about using Dr. Shifrin as your surgeon, I have given the office permission to give out my contact information- please feel free to contact me. My story: I was being treated by my Endo for Graves disease for about 1 year prior to having a biopsy of my thyroid nodules. When the biopsy results came back that I had abnormal cells, my Endo suggested that I have a thyroidectomy & advised me to get the opinion of a surgeon. I met with Dr. Shifrin. He made me feel comfortable from the first visit. He was informative and spoke with confidence. He told me that abnormal cells does not always mean "cancer"...however, his medical opinion agreed with my Endo- that I should have the surgery. Although the ultrasound only showed nodules on one side of my thyroid, he recommended a total thyroidectomy (to avoid having to go back in should something show up in the pathology report). Susie made the Pre-Op lab appointment while I sat in the waiting area and scheduled my appointment for surgery. She's extremely efficient! The day of surgery I was nervous. The anesthesiologist came in to talk to me about his participation with the procedure and what I should expect. He told me that a tiny camera would be put down my nose during surgery so that Dr. Shifrin could watch my vocal cords...taking every precaution for a safe and successful procedure. I was rolled in to the operating room and had the surgery. The nursing staff at Jersey Shore is second to none. They are kind, friendly and do all that they can to make you feel comfortable. After recovery, I was taken to a hospital room where I continued to rest for several hours. I did not need a drain after surgery and was permitted to go home that evening. Prior to being released, a Dr removed the stitches at the incision site and placed a large piece of medical tape on the incision area. I was handed written instructions on how to take care of it along with emergency phone numbers incase I needed to ask anything during the night. I was also given prescriptions for Pain medication, Calcium, and Synthroid that were written by Dr. Shifrin. I did not have to fill the prescription for the pain medicine. Tylenol worked fine. For 2 days after surgery, my neck was a little sore and swallowing was a little awkward. When eating, I found it was much easier to swallow- if I tilted my head downward, bringing my chin toward my chest. I had no food restrictions and was able to eat whatever I wanted. I was able to move about easily. Iron clothes, cook, etc...By the end of the week- I felt great. It was a personal choice to wait a full week before driving. The Pathology results came back 7 days after surgery. Good thing I went ahead and had the surgery! Not only did I have papillary carcinoma on the side where the nodules were, but I had it on the other side of my thyroid glad as well. Because I had cancer, I was scheduled six weeks later, for a Radioactive Iodine treatment. I was told it was important to drink plenty of water and to suck on hard candy after the Iodine treatment to flush the body & to aid the salivary glands. A week later, I went for a series of body scans. The months following the surgery & the Radioactive Iodine treatment, included following up with my Endo for adjustments to adjust the Synthroid dosage. Until that is correct- you may feel tired & sometimes forgetful. I also experienced a change in my menstrual cycle. I meet with my Endo every three months to check on my TSH level . Other than that- life is back to normal. I hope this has been helpful. Please feel free to ask Susie for my contact information if you'd like me to elaborate further. "

-- Susan Marter (Manalapan, NJ)

Office Address:

Department of Surgery

Jersey Shore University Medical Center,

1945 State Route 33, Neptune, NJ 07754

Phone (732) 776-4770

Fax (732) 776- 3763

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