The testimonials, statements, and opinions presented on our website are only applicable to the individuals depicted, and may not be representative of the experience of others. The testimonials are not indicative of future results or success of any other individuals. In short, surgery involves risk, results may vary from patient to patient and procedure to procedure.
WLIAZ referred practitioners cannot guarantee your results will be the same. Serving hundreds of patients each year, the Weight Loss Institute of Arizona is an industry leader in the field of bariatrics and weight loss surgery. With two offices in Tempe and one each in Phoenix, Tucson, Glendale, and Mesa, the Weight Loss Institute of Arizona team is prepared to address the needs of patients from all across the Southwest.
WLIAZ referred practitioners cannot guarantee your results will be the same. Serving hundreds of patients each year, the Weight Loss Institute of Arizona is an industry leader in the field of bariatrics and weight loss surgery. With two offices in Tempe and one each in Phoenix, Tucson, Glendale, and Mesa, the Weight Loss Institute of Arizona team is prepared to address the needs of patients from all across the Southwest.
Services
Serving hundreds of patients each year, the Weight Loss Institute of Arizona is an industry leader in the field of bariatrics and weight loss surgery. With two offices in Tempe and one each in Phoenix, Tucson, Glendale, and Mesa, the Weight Loss Institute of Arizona team is prepared to address the needs of patients from all across the Southwest.
I love this place. You definitely still have to advocate for yourself and put in the hard work, but if you're serious about changing your life, WLIA has your back! My husband and I chose a consultation with WLIA for lap-band surgery based off the recommendations from other nurses and they were right!
Selecting a surgeon or surgical weight loss practice that is right for you is an important step in your weight loss journey. With Phoenix, Tempe, Arrowhead and Tucson offices, find out what makes Weight Loss Institute of Arizona an excellent choice. Here, you get a multi-disciplinary team approach to your care.
At Weight Loss Institute of Arizona, our patients have the option of undergoing surgery at East Valley Surgery Center in Tempe, Arizona or any other of our affiliated hospitals. Our medical directors, Dr. Michael Orris, and Dr. John DeBarros, founded the Center to provide a safe and comfortable surgical setting for weight loss surgery patients from Tucson, Phoenix, Scottsdale and beyond.
Reviews (26)
James S.
Nov 24, 2021
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I started going to the Weight Loss Institute of Arizona in August 2021 in preparation for weight loss surgery. I was informed of the required bloodwork and other tests necessary and started having them done. After every test I would call to find out my results and was told I would be called, and I wasn't. On Monday, November 15th, I had to have an MRI of my liver and pancreas performed because my abdominal ultrasound came back abnormal. I called on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday for the results, to which I was told they were in the doctors folder and he would call before the end of the
Krysta R.
Nov 06, 2021
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Disclaimer I did not see a physician here:
I had a very difficult time communicating with this practice, it took me multiple voicemails and several attempts to even get on the phone. They offer telemedicine but none of the forms can be completed electronically. The day of my appointment I had to call multiple times to get my new patient paperwork on my own as it was not sent over. I was very clear that i was interested in Obalon and it is listed on their website. I wrote it, discussed it with a live person and emailed it. Finance contacts me 10 minutes before my appointment, wants to know what
I had a very difficult time communicating with this practice, it took me multiple voicemails and several attempts to even get on the phone. They offer telemedicine but none of the forms can be completed electronically. The day of my appointment I had to call multiple times to get my new patient paperwork on my own as it was not sent over. I was very clear that i was interested in Obalon and it is listed on their website. I wrote it, discussed it with a live person and emailed it. Finance contacts me 10 minutes before my appointment, wants to know what
Mary T.
Aug 13, 2021
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This place is horrible to deal with. I was referred by my previous physician and 8t is virtually impossible getting Rebecca the so called "coordinator " to call you back to schedule an appointment. Speaking with the useless Office Manager is a complete waste of time as she did nothing but make excuses and state " I haven't had any complaints ". Of course you haven't-you don't call anyone back. I don't know how these people stay on business i have never seen such a poorly run medical practice in my entire life.
Brandt Bacus
Aug 03, 2021
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Kelly B.
May 07, 2021
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I went in for a consultation and was shocked when I received a bill one year later. They rushed me through new patient paperwork that they said I had to have for the consult. Then, they brought in a doctor and dietician. No where during that time did they express that I would be billed if I saw the doctor and dietician that day. I thought it was all part of the consult. The only thing the doctor said to me was that he could help me. Nothing else! I was also told during the consult, not before, that they no longer had a contract with my insurance carrier. I told them then I wouldn't be using
Victoria L.
Mar 22, 2021
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I went in to talk to the doctor about a bariatric surgery and she was so short and didn't let me get in any questions or anything. Literally came in, told me what they do for the gastric sleeve, and was like okay so we'll get you started on weigh ins and went to leave. I felt so unwelcomed and like they could care less about helping me. I ended up going a different route because I wanted nothing to do with this doctor.
Monica Williams
Jan 30, 2021
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The staff failed to schedule a procedure, as well procrastinated in regards to a promised all to me once they received the B12,shots. Tp no avail did this take place. My weight management and surgery is a priority for me. I was a new patient, coming from Baltimore. So disappointed. Yet, they called to remind me if my app for this month. Nope, I will decline.
Unhappy NEW PATIENT. THEY TOTALLY DROPPED THE BALL
Unhappy NEW PATIENT. THEY TOTALLY DROPPED THE BALL
Carol C.
Aug 21, 2020
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They are a nightmare!! They have been jerking me around.. The medical assistant is rude and lazy.. I started out with Dr.Orris and once I got Medicare they stuck me with Dr.Buddensick who has no personality. Dr.Buddensick told the medical assistant to get me scheduled for the EGD and psych exam, she told me someone would call me, two weeks went by and no call so I called and she scheduled me right then.. I had to call back again to get my psych exam.. Dr.Buddensick did my EGD and he never came back to tell me if everything was okay.. The red flags were there, I just didn't want to believe
Destinee Brittingham
Jul 08, 2020
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I never write reviews. However, I felt the need to warn others about this business. My first appointment I was greeted by a very rude doctor to go over my surgery. The insurance coordinator Ann Marie stated she would submit my urgent insurance authorization as soon as possible. It has has one month and I have just now been told my claim was denied. I have had to call the office 5 times a day just to speak to someone regarding my case. I completed my endoscopy, ultrasound and psychiatric evaluation. All before my surgery was even approved. I called the medical assistant Arianna and was told by the
Mary L.
Jul 07, 2020
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I am very PLEASED with the staff at WLIA as they continue to be AMAZING with treatment and support, it's sad to see so many negative comments solely based on Insurance issues. From working in the medical billing field I can say that the Insurance companies ARE THE ISSUE, not the facility as I know they try hard to get procedures approved and paid for. Insurance companies need to be dealt with not only by the facility but also by the patient, trust when I say that if the patient was to get involved you will see traction on getting your bill paid for.
However...sorry for the rat hole..
However...sorry for the rat hole..
Tiffany Hinton
Jun 12, 2020
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My Dr. Is Orris and he was great and straight to the point. He tells you how it is and i like that! Ariana, Randy and Mike are all wonderful and have been a pleasure to deal with! I did this procedure because I was having alot of joint pain and needed some help. I have NEVER had issues or complications from the procedure at all. Yes you will be in pain its surgery but after 1 week you will feel better. At two weeks your feeling much better. I have NO regrets and I am pleased with WLIAZ & would recommend them to anyone wanting to do a sleeve procedure. I was sleeved on July 15th 2020.
Meredith A.
Apr 30, 2020
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Update: Following my review Dr Buddensick called me to offer his apologies and inquire as to what he could have done better. Although this does not make up for my experience it did show me that he cared enough to humble himself and learn from this experience. I have changed my rating from 2 to 3 stars. I would possibly give this practice one more chance.
I have had my lap band since 2014. I have seen several bariatric surgeon over the years. Today I my lap band needed attention and I ended up at WLIA in Tempe. First I will say that the front desk staff was very kind. Since my insurance company
I have had my lap band since 2014. I have seen several bariatric surgeon over the years. Today I my lap band needed attention and I ended up at WLIA in Tempe. First I will say that the front desk staff was very kind. Since my insurance company
Lindsey M.
Mar 15, 2020
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Wael O.
Feb 26, 2020
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My wife had what was "advertised" as free consultation, only to find out a few weeks later that they are billing our insurance close to a thousand dollars.
When we called their office to clarify, their billing person was clueless and their finance person was pretty rude!
Overall, shady practices and real costs are not disclosed, we cancelled all future visits and informed them that we don't trust them to perform the procedure.
Would not recommend!
When we called their office to clarify, their billing person was clueless and their finance person was pretty rude!
Overall, shady practices and real costs are not disclosed, we cancelled all future visits and informed them that we don't trust them to perform the procedure.
Would not recommend!
Jan Thompson
Jan 15, 2020
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My experience with Dr Orris and his staff was great! They are caring and compassionate. Dr. Orris is a great surgeon and takes the time to listen and accommodate your questions and concerns. His office staff and medical assistant are the best you could ever ask for. Mike is the nutritionist and is very detailed in his work. He is caring and will take the time to help guide you through the journey both before and after surgery.
Wendy Martin
Jan 06, 2020
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Awesome is all I say about this business, their staff and surgeons. I had the best experience and felt supported and cared for from the beginning of my journey to post op and still going. The office staff are friendly and helpful, the support staff and dietitians are there for you and are great resources. And Dr Debarros is the most wonderful doctor and surgeon I have ever met. This place changed my life in the
best way possible.
best way possible.
Tamika W.
Nov 30, 2019
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I love my WLIA family and very disappointed to see the negative reviews based on issues of insurance and lack of personal responsibility. Yes, knowing your insurance is a very big MUST no matter what medical process you go through. I've always been thoroughly informed by WILA what to expect...and then I CALL MY INSURANCE to confirm for myself. I walk away from WLIA with copies of everything I sign. Additionally my insurance sends me determinations of services my providers submit...so how anyone can blame issues with insurance on WLIA is simply unfair. I've gotten bills from my insurance
Jennifer T.
Aug 28, 2019
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Teresa VanAcker
Jul 06, 2019
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MIchele K.
Jun 07, 2019
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I have been a patient for over 4 years. I am having trouble getting food down and they will not make an appointment for me until they can verify my insurance - the SAME insurance I have had since I started. What kind of Doctors are you!
If you are thinking of using them - this is NOT the first problem I have had. FIND SOMEONE ELSE - ANYONE ELSE!
If you are thinking of using them - this is NOT the first problem I have had. FIND SOMEONE ELSE - ANYONE ELSE!
Jodene R.
Apr 17, 2019
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I was very nervous about having weight loss surgery and then concerned about the financial part of it. WLIA from my very first consult walked me and my husband through every step. They made the whole process very easy and when it was time for my surgery, the whole office made sure I was prepared mentally and physically for the procedure. Dr.Orris and Dr. Richardson were amazing. They answered all my questions and concerns. I have never felt so supported. Then there are the dietitians who also get involved and make sure you have all the tools you need to succeed.
Best decision ever! Love WLIA
Best decision ever! Love WLIA
Denice Wilson
Feb 04, 2019
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This Institute has given me a new lease on life. Had my surgery in August, 2018, easiest thing I have ever done. No pain no problems. Have my three month check up today e cited to see what Dr Ho thinks of my progress. Great clinic, support groups awesome, always there when you need them. Thanks WLIAZ life is Great right now.
Wendy B.
Sep 01, 2018
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This place is WONDERFUL!! I decided to get the gastric sleeve in January 2017, and for the next 8 months, I followed all the instructions that was provided and prepared for the surgery. I had the sleeve done in September 2017, and have lost 50 pounds so far. Mike Murphy the nutritionist is the best, and Dr. Orris is very helpful and knowledgeable. I made sure to adhere to the post-op instructions as well, and I am proud to say that I have not had any complications at all.
Only thing is that I had to have my gall bladder removed two months prior to getting the sleeve. Dr. Orris showed it
Only thing is that I had to have my gall bladder removed two months prior to getting the sleeve. Dr. Orris showed it
Sarah J.
May 06, 2018
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I started the process and went through their necessary medical procedures. For my EGD, I was told it would be $800. Okay, fine, I will pay that. Month and a half later I know owe $599.4 for the anesthetist and over $900 for the EGD. I sent them a message asking why I now have to pay more money for the EGD. No reply and I feel like I am being ignored. If you actually have the money to throw away, go ahead. I feel lied to and now am facing financial burdens due to them not disclosing the actual cost of the procedures.
Oh, and the first person who put the needle in my hand for the drip didn&apos
Oh, and the first person who put the needle in my hand for the drip didn&apos
Michael C.
Feb 07, 2018
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Angela S.
Jan 23, 2018
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Find another clinic! First, the insurance verification lady is a total car salesman! She is full of lies! Anything she can say to make a deal. She told me that they were contracted with my insurance, just to find out three months later they aren't. I received a letter from my insurance company say I will owe over $8,000 to WLIA. When I called to speak to someone in their billing department, they told me they have never been contracted with my insurance.
Also, the doctor spent more time talking about how incompetent and stupid his staff is during my appointment than talking about my care.
Also, the doctor spent more time talking about how incompetent and stupid his staff is during my appointment than talking about my care.
