Published by Commons Clinic. [Web version](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/communication/eric-millstein/page/6/) Reviewer names are abbreviated. Patient reviews describe individual experiences. Review counts describe source records, not unique patients or clinical outcomes; the acquired snapshot may not include complete platform histories. Clinical education and patient accounts do not replace a consultation. Eric S. Millstein, MD # Listening and clear explanations reviews Page 6 of 7. [Back to these patient experiences →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/communication/eric-millstein/) 156 written reviews Highest rated first · Newest within each rating > Best possible outcomes because of Dr. Millstein! > > I couldn't be happier with my recent knee replacement that Dr. Millstein performed. And - I'm only 2 weeks out from the surgery! He was very upfront with the pros and cons for me. I have always felt that he truly cares about me and my situation. > > I have Lupus and arthritis and have deliberated the decision for the replacement for almost 10 years. I was told for the first few that I was too young for it at the time. > > I'm still technically too young since there is a possibility I'll have to have another one someday. But - Dr. M never pushed the surgery on me. In fact, he told me two years ago, that he wouldn't do it for "aggravating" only when it became unbearable. That happened this year when I was held back from almost all of the activities I have enjoyed my whole life. It was time. And I couldn't be more pleased with the results. > > I was a bit concerned at the start - because I got a UTI in the hospital and had to stay on a little longer. But - my care from Dr. Millstein and the residents on call took amazing care of me, gave me a lot of attention and clearly explained the issues and risks. I came home in fine shape, and was off to rehab! > > Best decision I've made regarding my health in a long time. I can't wait to ski, hike, bike and play in the coming months! C. S. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 12/1/17 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=vfwYSNFlg57sGtI_yCPhkw&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Dr. Milltein's office is at the top of their game. Any busy, successful physician is difficult with which to get an appointment. When my first appointment was booked 10 days out, I asked the receptionist, Zandra, to call me if they had any cancellations, and frankly I did not expect a call back. But the next day Zandra called saying, we've had a cancellation, can you be here in 90 minutes? You betcha'! I've have two appointments and never had to wait more than 10 minutes. Dr. Millstein said he needed to get approval from Anthem Blue Cross on Tuesday, but if approved, he could do the procedure on Wednesday, which is exactly what happened. In addition to Zandra, Beth, Antionette and Susana, Teri leads the medical assistant team. She got the approval, set up the injection tray and kept me informed at every turn of events. Teri stood out for her communication skills, obvious command of the medical procedures and showed real sincerity--are you feeling OK after the injection? Caring and competence inspires patient confidence. D. S. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 11/10/17 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=Jsa0IQIqfSA8LfPJ_T8HgA&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Dr. Millstein performed a knee replacement on my right knee on 5/17/17. He operated on my left knee 2 1/2 years ago. Both surgeries went extremely well, and my recuperation has been excellent both times. He is very caring, and listens to you. I live in Palm Desert, but he is worth the long drive. Also as a bonus, my scars look better than others I have seen. I recommend him highly. > Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're cOnfnnected in any way to the owner or employees. S. K. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 6/7/17 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=xkIIW6PVmRLBPZwb1CUAAg&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Eric Millstein performed my meniscus operation so skillfully that I took nothing but Advil in the days following surgery. Four years later I can't find the scars that were supposed to last a lifetime, and have had no further discomfort in my knee. (I sometimes have to think for a moment to remember which side used to bother me.) > > Better yet, he's patient and communicative. I recently went in for a few mild sports injuries and was impressed by how unhurried and thoughtful he was in evaluating each issue and offering advice. He really puts you at ease. After my appointment I remembered something I'd wanted to ask, so I emailed his front desk, who called me early the next day with his reply. > > Bedside manner really matters when you're injured! Years ago a surgeon in San Francisco performed a tendon repair on my right foot. The surgery went well, but the period leading up to it and my subsequent recovery were punctuated by anxiety, due to the surgeon's penchant for answering only a few precious questions ("When can I start to walk?") before disappearing without warning for his next appointment. It led to some fierce arguments with my mom, who helped me get to appointments, over whether we'd asked the right questions in our allotted time. It was highly stressful, and made the experience of getting hurt all the less pleasant. > > On the contrary, thanks to Eric Millstein my experience was a positive one throughout. P. F. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 2/13/17 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=vE2zncZhJr_fdFf2RekUIg&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Dr. Millstein is an excellent orthopedic surgeon. I initially saw him for severe arthritis in both of my shoulders. In 8/16, Dr. Millstein performed right shoulder total replacement surgery. My recovery has been excellent. I never thought that I would regain my strength and range of motion to the extent that I have. My physical therapist has consistently remarked that Dr. Millstein's skill is excellent. At each and every visit, Dr. Millstein gave me all the time I needed to have my questions answered. His office staff is excellent and very caring. > J. V. J. V. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 2/1/17 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=cbdCPdbRTlKfl4aaFBZH5g&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > I felt in very good hands. The doctor took his time explaining my situation and provided options for the treatment going forward. Having treatment choices / options I find very helpful as different patients have different approaches to their health care management. The Cedar Sinai fellow that did the intake interview was very profficient, thorough and communicative. An all around very positive encounter. K. B. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Zocdoc · Date: Dec 27, 2016 [Zocdoc profile](https://www.zocdoc.com/doctor/eric-millstein-md-666340) Source link type: listing Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Dr. Millstein is an amazing Ortho physician. He took his time to go over my knee injury with me. He was calm, well mannered, and listened to my complaints as he examined me. My injury wasn't as bad as I thought, but I highly recommend him for any Orthopaedic issue you guys may have. I have referred family members to him as well. M. T. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 12/27/16 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=UAp6u8GHtZ0NywJ44EWpRQ&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Dr. Millstein is a kind and gentle man. He is very thoughtful and personal. I had an ankle injury that had been plaguing me for over a decades. Upon examining my X-Rays and MRI, he explained my condition. He does not specialize in ankles, so he referred me to one of the best surgeons in the United States. Thank you for the referral and initial diagnosis. You are honest and care about your patients. J. D. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 7/6/16 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=-7DRnena1-ESmnAGiOrjkQ&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Found him on Yelp and the rave reviews are well-deserved! Went up on the elevator with two current post-op patients and their opinions of him were very enthusiastic. Went for a third opinion about my shoulder because the first two were so different. He answered all my questions and explained his opinion (no surgery necessary) clearly. Best mix of medical expertise, courtesy and warmth. L. A. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 6/16/16 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=E_ciE0SPqbDJWTKaL-Dh6w&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > (This review is WAY late, but more than worth reading!) > I had massive knee/joint pain. After meeting with several orthopedists and finding no real rapport or confidence with them, I met with Dr. Millstein. My knees instantly knew they'd found their soulmate! It was clear from arthroscopic surgery I was walking on borrowed time, not to mention being freaked out at the thought of knee replacement. When I'm nervous, I ask a lot of questions, and by "a lot" I mean "a lot MORE than a lot." Not only did he answer each and every one, but went the extra light year and laughed at my jokes (unlike most physicians, who usually threaten to charge me extra). > (As they say, I can be a "problem patient.") > When it came time to replace my left knee, I went willingly. (He's been kind enough never to mention that in my about-to-enter-dreamland fog, I think I asked him for a date! Oy!) > A few days at Cedars-Sinai and a few months of PT and I was walking a zillion times better than I ever had! In fact, a few months later, he replaced my right knee, which I have very comfortably crossed over my left as I type this several years later (I told you I was way late with this). > For a while, he no longer accepted my insurance, and I respect him for that, because I felt he was vastly undercompensated by said company. And I am willing to pay the extra "out-of-plan" cost to see him, because I feel 100% comfortable in his care, not to mention that of his nurse, Nancy (how she puts up with me I'll never know either)! > In short, if you don't have a leg to stand on, you should see Dr. Millstein! (And no, he didn't laugh at that one either!) > In all seriousness, he IS the best! R. Harris Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Jun 6, 2016 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/107974884488859700062/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > After having consultations with three well-known orthopedic surgeons in the Los Angeles area, I selected Dr. Millstein to reconstruct my ACL in my right knee. Dr. Millstein took the time to explain my options in person and we came to a joint decision where I had 100% confidence. I opted to use my hamstring tendons, instead of patellar or cadaver tendons, as it gave me the best chance to continue skiing, biking, surfing, playing tennis, and participating in all of the sports that I love. Within one year, I was back to 95% and now don't even wear a brace. My right knee actually feels tighter and stronger than my left! What convinced me to select Dr. Millstein was the amount of attention he gave during the consultation and the fact that he was able to diagnose my ACL tear through joint manipulation even before he saw the MRI. It was clear he know what we was doing. He even called me on Saturday after my surgery to check in and see how I was doing. Thank you, Dr. Millstein! Z. L. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 4/13/16 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=a9tTKB8yLyKxK2aCZSYQog&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > I have plenty of experience with orthopedic surgeons and I have to say Dr. Millstein is the best. I've been in for several issues and appreciated his careful diagnosis and explanation of the problem, and especially the way he talks patients through options for treatment including non-surgical options. Solid. And I'll add that his offices have been great about scheduling appointments and getting me in soon after I call. Just a top notch operation all around. A. C. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 12/17/15 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=VG6JZBZnvgD65p7Qyex2hg&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Dr Millstein is Awesome! Amazing Down to earth yet maintain a complete professional bedside manor. Got Cut off on my Motorcycle by someone who tried to cheat & turn right into me (from a Left Turn Only Lane)... Tore My ACL, went to the good Doc! Made everything easy for an Ex-Jock Football head like myself, and the best part, gave me some options to think about(esp because i would miss a significant amount of time from work). Staff is Awesome! From the Lovely Ladies in the Front Desk, Awesome Lady who always takes my vitals, history, & if i have any new issues/questions. > > Prep for Sugery day...The Surgery Coordinator & anyone else you may need to reach, not only give u a easy to understand packet, but are there to answer any questions/emails. From my experience emails are fastest to get a response (love it becuase i am one to forget things if its not written down or in a email) > > Surgery Day was a breeze! Had the normal before surgery Jitters, but the good Doc & Medical staff. Made it very calm, informed so i had no surprises. Woke up, some month or so later, actually saw the "scars" & as time passed it healing, and to my Awesome Suprise, it seriously looked like a small scratch. Like I have Scars from when i was little that look more like surgery scars than the awesome work Dr. Millstein did. > > Yes, I am a satisfied, happy, & will be a life long pt if i ever(knock on wood) get a injury. I would Highly Recommend any One I love & care about to Dr. Millstein. > > Also, > If you have see him at Century City location, give yourself Exxxxxtra time to go through the underground parking (if you're running late make sure to make a call Before you hit the structure. lol)... There is Valet, but you still have to make your way to the Elevators & take it up. > > > Thanks again Dr. Millstein! > V. N. V. N. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 9/9/15 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=85L0HP-aww_VxYDLgk6mMA&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Dr. Millstein is the man! Experienced an unusual accident that resulted in a torn knee cap. This was very scary and my first surgery at the ripe age of 70. I had the surgery last week which went well, and am hopefully on the way to what I believe will result in a complete recovery. His office co-ordinator, Mariana , truly went above and beyond the call of duty by always answering my questions and calls in a timely manner. She also dropped off a script for me at the area pharmacy. In a big impersonal city, I cannot rave enough about the warmth, expertise, and professionalism of Dr. Millstein and his staff. L. C. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 4/28/15 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=eYqfXnTsONtCqhTG5iCTVA&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > I'm not it ANY way associated with Dr. Millstein and his office outside of the many positive experiences with him and the staff. The least I can do is share here. This is my first review. > > I am a performer with a touring Broadway production. After many non-surgical treatments for an ongoing shoulder injury, it was time for serious intervention. After researching surgeons around the country I landed here in LA and had an appointment with Dr. Millstein. > > He was not quick to diagnose without first hearing ALL of my questions/concerns. He was very realistic and truthful about my recovery which any athlete/performer appreciates when your livelihood depends on it. > > It did not take long for me to decide this was the proper route. The front office has been very communicative, polite, professional. Response to any questions I'd have usually were responded to via callback or email the same day. (Not to mention Dr. Millstein called me the night of my surgery to check up!) > > The nursing staff in the office is amazing as well. They have always been very encouraging, upbeat, and "in tune". None of this feels "put on" or disingenuous. > > In approximately 6 or 7 appointments I've not waited more than 10 minutes to be placed in a room. Within another 5 minutes a nurse is taking blood pressure, etc. and another 5 Dr. Millstein is there. > > Something to consider is other patients, like myself, who have 1000 concerns and Dr. Millstein sits, listens, and answers without rushing. We should appreciate an office that functions this way. What's waiting a bit longer, if needed, to know you (and others) will receive top care? > > Finally, (and most importantly) I have made a FULL recovery. I am SO glad I went through with surgery with Dr. Millstein. I am back to 8 shows a week with no pain. R. R. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 4/10/15 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=b63W8hyTk7J448U5r8oNMA&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > I was seen once by Dr. Eric Milstein, and I have a very favorable impression of him. When he realized that surgery was not appropriate for my particular orthopedic condition, he took the time to discuss the particulars of my situation. He then referred me to a pain management specialist. I was impressed that Dr. Milstein spent a great deal of time answering my many questions. M. S. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 10/19/14 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=vkW0h3xNvKXACD1ZtB7t1g&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > I just can say that it was a wonderful experience. His staff is very helpful the wait was less than 10 minutes but what is more important is that he is a very knowledgeable doctor. He will listen to your questions and explain them thoroughly . I had a knee dislocation and the MRI results were not very good but he was able to detect a mistake in the reading and gave me peace of mind. He has great bed side manners and is a compassionate and caring doctor. I was referred to him by Dr Sunu Alhluwalia also an excellent doctor but since he was out of network and I need surgery he referred me to him. I don't have enough words to say the peace I feel after visiting him. I have tear tendons and will need surgery. I trust that my recovery is going to be just fine with him. Finding a orthopedian surgeon is a challenge particularly when mobility is at stake. I am glad I found him. J. D. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 9/10/14 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=zfPrMGUL9AcuF9PTvn4sTg&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Luckily I do not know Dr. Millstein from a patient perspective (knock wood). However, as a physical therapist and owner of Evolution Physical Therapy, I have had the pleasure of working with many of his patients. Over the years I have had the opportunity to work with many physicians and orthopedic surgeons and I can say with great confidence that Dr. Millstein is among the best. If any of my family or I needed an orthopedic consultation, he would be the one we'd go to without hesitation. > > From a professional perspective, I appreciate that he does not rush into surgery which is a real breath of fresh air. He encourages other conservative methods of treatment prior to surgery. His diagnostic skills are great and all the patients we treat appreciate his bed-side manner. Without exception, every patient feels that Dr Millstein genuinely cares for their health and takes time to explain procedures and answer all questions. This fact alone sets him far above many other clinicians. > > When surgery is in fact indicated, his skills are remarkable. His patients recover very quickly from surgeries and outcomes are exceptional. He is also an active physician and he understands the mentality of patients who are eager to return to sports and active lifestyles. > > If you are in need of an orthopedic consultation, do not hesitate to go see Dr Millstein. You owe it to your body! D. F. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 1/22/14 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=6vml_WU_LAR5EJOx_fcmFQ&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Having torn my ACL three times (along with various other left knee injuries), I moved to LA and found myself in need of a new orthopedic surgeon. After looking at reviews for everyone in the area, Dr. Millstein stood out among his colleagues as both a brilliant surgeon and practical/discerning physician. He really listens to his patients and operates as a last option (in my case, I already knew it was my only choice). He performed an open high-tibial osteotomy to realign my leg and managed to leave the most minimal scarring --which is next to impossible considering the invasive nature of this particular procedure. > > Dr. Millstein has also been there to answer any questions I've had during recovery and takes time to follow-up frequently. There really isn't a better ortho guy out there! Also, the office staff are incredibly helpful and sweet. Can't go wrong here. M. W Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Jan 3, 2014 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/110389126276994235769/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Mine was a very mixed experience with this orthopedist and staff. I found Dr. Millstien on the internet. I’ve been treated several times in his offices for a very typical joint issue, no surgery. > > His offices are very conveniently located. Each was very clean with absolutely no wait times. It is really comfortable in the beautiful waiting areas; both waiting areas were nearly always empty on all of my visits. My first impression of Dr. Millstien was that he was a nice guy. > > But although my first visit was fine, I get a strong sense something is “off” with this organization. > > My second visit was OK, but I’ve noticed that this doctor’s bedside manner seems caring at first, but later surfaces as quite arrogant, condescending and “superior to you.” Honestly, he comes off making it clear that he is doing you a favor by treating you. > > Although he called me with test results, he recommended a very cookie-cutter approach -- cortizone “for the pain” -- which I resisted as I knew it to be a short-term, band-aid fix. My pain had gone. I succeeded in leading him (via many phone calls with one helpful nurse) to a more sophisticated treatment used by the top guys. I would have expected him to have led this discussion and options with me right off the bat since it is known that cortizone can have negative side effects. Still...no big deal. > > But what followed were excruciating, unnecessary problems with his poorly trained staff -- they are incompetent, unhelpful and really don’t seem to care that a patient is calling because that patient needs assistance. In my case, I only needed a procedure code typically required by insurance -- just a number! Ironically, they answer the phone with “How may I help you?” yet cannot or will not fulfill that promise. > > One staffer refused to provide the code, yelled at me and made me feel as if my insurance company’s need was a real bother to her and her co-workers. What the very rude and condescending staff member finally provided....... was still wrong simply because she refused to listen to my request. Her behavior was unacceptable. I ended up getting the needed code from the doctor in person on my final visit -- it took him less than 10 seconds to provide it. > > I really gave this place a chance because it is so convenient and their internet website marketing really pulled me in. But I will NOT return here and certainly would NOT consider surgery with this organization should I need it. Lesson learned -- 1) don’t pic a doc off the internet just because he is close. 2) the way the staff treat patients starts at the top of the organization, trickling down from the attitude of the guy whose name is on the door. > > There are hundreds of great orthopedic guys with professional, caring, service-oriented staffs in Los Angeles. Now I am reminded why the best orthopedists have the busiest waiting rooms! M. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Sep 1, 2013 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/103951554124979946392/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > I echo the other fantastic reviews. Best experience with an orthopedic surgeon I've ever had and best you could hope for! > > 1) Dr. Millstein obviously knows his area of expertise and is a very skilled surgeon > > 2) He actually listens to you and takes his time to discuss your symptoms, his thoughts and the reasons for them (not just his conclusions!) and to answer your questions. This last is a real source of irritation for me with many physicians. > > 3) His staff were efficient, warm and friendly. Appointments were a breeze to schedule. > > 4) The surgery (torn miniscus) was quick and unbelievably problem free. I was up almost immediately and off crutches the next day. > > 5) The follow up appointment was another great conversation and I left feeling like I was a real part of my treatment plan. L. C. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 8/8/13 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=-gw1-yBD_r80iqk-d-wAag&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > I am now 6 months post-operative meniscus repair of my knee with Dr. Millstein. As an RN with surgical orthopedic work experience, I think I can speak on the topic with some perspective. > > The quick summary: Dr. Millstein is not only an excellent surgeon, he's a trustworthy PERSON. His staff reflects his same commitment to the patient, and if you're his patient, you are listened to, he is generous with his time, and you will not be rushed. I am 62 and my knee hurt for two-plus years before I sought medical attention. I really expected him to tell me something like, "there's nothing wrong with your knee, so quit whining." But in fact, despite no history of prior trauma, my knee cartilage had literally come apart within my knee and needed arthroscopic repair. Within 48 hours after surgery with Dr. Millstein I no longer needed pain pills, I gave up the crutches, gave back the ice machine, and walked without pain for the first time in too long. > > Since then I have been able to resume hiking with my sons and my wife and all of that without pain. Having worked with scores of orthopedists whose attitudes toward their patients was, to say the least, highly variable, I can recommend Dr. Millstein with real enthusiasm. You Yelpers looking here for help deciding, lemme tell ya: look no further. :) Dr. M is your guy. -- M. L. M. L. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 5/27/13 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=sLoTvlrJiTH94SuOHSuPqA&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > In short, Dr. Millstein is a FANTASTIC doctor. He's all you could ask for. > > For full details of my experience, read on: > > I called Dr. Millstein's office at the suggestion of a friend who is a physical therapist. The receptionist was able to give me an appointment six days later. I am 53 years old, an active athlete for most of my life, and in the last six months I had developed some severe unfamiliar knee pain. I was concerned that my symptoms might be from a torn meniscus (cartilage) in my right knee. I went to Dr. Millstein's office in Beverly Hills, filled out some forms and had two X-rays taken of my knee in the office as a baseline check. Next, Dr. Millstein came in and listened attentively to my history of the problem and what type of pain I was getting. He did a hands-on physical exam, manipulating my knee in the test positions that would be painful if I had a meniscus injury. From that exam and my history he concluded that I probably did not have a meniscus injury, and it was likely another kind of soft-tissue inflammation that was giving me pain. I was still worried and wanted to rule out the possibility of a meniscus injury, so Dr. Millstein was willing to prescribe an MRI scan to be 100% sure it was not a meniscus tear. This was what I was hoping for, because if I could be sure it was not a tear I could treat my knee with anti-inflammatory drugs and physical therapy. Dr. Millstein also consulted me on my drug history and what I had taken and what worked best for me. This was very considerate -- most doctors just say: "Take this pill." I got the MRI results and it showed that Dr. Millstein's in-office diagnosis was correct: my meniscus was intact. I have since then been able to resolve the pain 95% with the anti-inflammatory drugs he prescribed, ice, exercise and resting the knee. > > Let me tell you the three things that most impressed me about Dr. Millstein: > > 1) He's a very modern guy with state-of-the-art tools, procedures, and ideas about treatment. Every aspect of his practice is totally up to date. > > 2) He was a good listener and did not have the superior attitude you get from a lot of doctors; I felt he was interested in my problem and in figuring out how to deal with it. > > 3) He was happy to take the most conservative, low-impact course of treatment. Some doctors would have wanted to do "exploratory" surgery on my knee. Not Dr. Millstein. This was great news for me. Dr. Millstein only wanted to do what was needed to put my mind at ease, treat my knee pain, and no more. He was patient-focused and really showed great medical ethics. One of the principal ideas of medical ethics that all medical students are taught in medical school is that, "given an existing problem, it may be better not to do something, or even to do nothing, than to risk causing more harm than good." It reminds the physician and other health care providers that they must consider the possible harm that any intervention (surgery) might do. So I applaud Dr. Millstein for giving me restrained, minimal, successful treatment. I would highly recommend him to anyone. W. M. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 5/23/13 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=xEge8_oeppD8_DAKsSTwbw&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Loved Dr. Millstein! I needed meniscus surgery and had been referred to "all the best" of the other orthopods in BH and MDR. The others were such a chore to get an appointment with and had some pretty scary reviews of how their offices were run. While I was doing my research, Dr. Millstein's yelp review kept popping up. Could I find an orthopedic surgeon through Yelp I thought to myself? So I kept doing research, made a surgical consult appointment with one of the best, a MONTH away (other doc's very earliest available) and decided to look further into Dr. Millstein. I really liked what I read and decided to see Dr. M. Called and had an appointment three days later, had my consult & surgery completed before my appointment with that other doc even came around. So GLAD I went with Dr. M! My surgery was in the BH facility he uses and everyone at the surgery center was amazing. Dr. M. also does surgery in a MDR facility which I've heard is also wonderful but I had to go to BH for insurance coverage reasons. Most orthopods do surgery and have offices in two or three cities and most also work under the larger umbrella of a corporate group of surgeons. Dr. Millstein is a part of the D.I.S.C. Spine & Sports Center. Every one of Dr. Millstein's office staff is so nice and very helpful but I did have a couple of annoyances with hearing back from his assistant in a timely manner and once had a heck of a time getting someone to answer the phone. Both of these situations Dr. Millstein was aware of and assured me they are working on it. Nothing's perfect and no medical office gets it right all of the time and I will take my experience with Dr. Millstein any day. Waiting room experience was also excellent...ten minutes the first time and maybe 15 the next. D. F. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 5/1/13 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=2WLPEjFetCM6v3K-RZT9pA&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. 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