Knee reviews

I can’t praise Dr Ramkumar enough. In the middle of April I injured my right knee. Once I had an mri and a confirmed rupture of almost every ligament in my knee and some meniscus damage I knew I had a long road ahead. I was referred to Dr Ramkumar by a local urgent care and was able to get an appointment the following week. After doing some research on my particular injuries, MCL, ACL, PCL, Menisci damage I knew I needed someone who had the knowledge and the skills to successfully repair my knee. I did have some apprehension just knowing how complex the repair could be, but after meeting Dr Ramkumar and discussing the case and the plan of care I felt so much better. Dr Ramkumar explained my injuries thoroughly and also discussed how he planned to repair the joint, including harvesting some patella tendon, installing some aftermarket tendons, and even a full internal MCL bracing, I knew he was building my knee out like I played for the LA Rams. He developed a full rehabilitation protocol for my multiligamentous repair, and provided me with enough time to heal and get back to activity. Dr Ramkumar has a great attitude and always makes you feel as if you’re the only patient he has to see that day. He takes the time to have that conversation with you and ensure understanding. I couldn’t be happier with my new knee and I highly recommend Dr Ramkumar!

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

My partial knee replacement with Dr. Prem Ramkumar was a great experience. The entire team was exceptional from the initial consultation to post-op care. Call back questions were taken care of in a timely manner. I had no bruising, I’m 4 weeks post-op and walking without a walker or cane. I no longer have knee pain and started walking around my neighborhood. I’m extremely happy and would recommend Dr. Ramkumar.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I highly recommend Dr. Prem Ramkumar for a direct anterior (not posterior) total hip arthroplasty with robotic assistance. My left hip surgery was extremely successful and I was up walking the same day as the surgery and slowly progressed to walking unassisted 1-2 miles daily outside my home in just the first two weeks. Plus, much to my surprise, Dr. Ramkumar visited me in my hospital room in the evening no doubt after a very long day of multiple surgeries to check in and see how I was doing. Additionally, there were no complications during the surgery or during recovery! I especially appreciated his excellent information on pre and post surgery exercises to help with the recovery process along with a detailed daily pain medication schedule for the first week post surgery. Dr. Ramkumar is highly educated and very knowledgeable about both hips and knees and truly accomplished as an orthopedic specialist surgeon in these areas. Dr. Ramkumar is competent, capable, caring, personable, has a good sense of humor, is willing to listen and answer my endless questions, and I believe he truly tries to find the optimal solutions for his patients. If you're looking for a surgeon to perform a direct anterior total hip replacement then make an appointment with Dr. Ramkumar. You will be glad you did!

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I have the best experience with Dr Combs. He did my right knee 6 years ago and just did my left knee a few days ago. He is the kindest and calmest!

Christopher Combs, MD

TL:DR - go to this surgeon.he is the best. This was my second ACL Repair, a decade after the first and on the opposite knee. Dr. Ramkumar is an expert! I had my first surgery done at Kerlan and Jobe, and Dr. Ramkumar was noticeably better. His history of working with athletes is clearly evident. He boils down all the information and treatment plan in such an approachable way that it makes the long road to recovery seem very attainable and achievable. I hope I never have to use him again but if I get injured I know who I will call.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

Dr. Ram is hands down the best! He’s so down to earth, truly listens, and has an incredible bedside manner. From our very first appointment, it felt like we had known him forever. That connection is a bonus! but the real blessing was how well my husband’s hip surgery went. His recovery has been smooth, he doesn’t need physical therapy, and he’s healing great! What really blew us away was the level of care. At my husband’s post-op appointment, Dr. Ram told us that he had actually been thinking about my husband while laying in bed one night after a long day of surgeries. He emailed Stephanie late that night to get him in sooner—and even personally emailed me at 10 PM to follow up. Who does that? That’s next-level care. The surgery was moved 15 days sooner than originally scheduled, and we had to get all the paperwork and pre-op done within 24 hours—and Stephanie made it happen! She works wonders. That alone speaks volumes about this office, the staff is amazing! Stephanie deserves a special shout out! (Hi Stephanie!) My husband loves Dr. Ram and tells everyone about him. We honestly feel like we’ve made a new friend. We’re beyond grateful. Thank you, Dr. Ram 🙏🏽 and team—we love you and will refer you to anyone needing hip or knee care. C. Milla

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

Dr Ramkumar did a great job had to get an acl reconstruction and meniscus repair and a couple of months later i was back to doing martial arts now almost 8 months later i have no pain and no problem doing any daily activities so for anyone looking for a good orthopedic knee surgeon dr ramkumar is the man

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

Dr Prem Ramkumar and his Physical Therapists Mina and his team provided me with excellent care. I remember feeling nervous, anxious and scared. Dr Ramkumar and his Physical therapy team all gave me comfort and hope and assurance from the first consultation. Dr Ramkumar made sure I received my pain medication once I had run out. He personally contacted me to make sure. It’s not every day that a medical professional who does what Dr did for me. Dr Ramkumar and his PT team instilled in me the confidence I needed from the beginning made the entire process much easier for me. I’m truly grateful for not only having a successful ACL/ Meniscus knee repair surgery but for the peace of mind that they all provided me throughout the process. Every step of the way , Dr Ramkumar and Mina Physical Therapist and his team were there for me offering reassurance and clarity ensuring that I was not just another patient but a valued individual and deserving of the best care. Their commitment to excellence and patient care is truly remarkable. I’m blessed to have had Dr Ramkumar as my surgeon and also Blessed to have had Mina as my Physical Therapist along with his amazing team . You all made the difference in my healing journey . With deepest gratitude to them all. I strongly recommend Long Beach Lakewood Orthopedic Institute. Dr Ramkumar and the Physical Therapy team.. Veronica

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I recently had a total knee replacement performed by Dr. Prem Ramkumar. Dr. Ramkumar and his staff (especially Stephanie) are amazing. All of my questions and concerns were addressed. Emails and texts were responded to in a very timely manner. I never felt like I was "just another patient".

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

Dr. Estess is wonderful and thorough! My knee pain came on quickly and was very severe. We discussed a Cortizone shot and decided to move forward with it so I could enjoy my Fourth of July while taking it easy. I had an MRI on my knee 24 hours after I saw her. My follow up is Tuesday (MRI diagnosis) for a game plan. Until then, I have been following doctor’s orders to take it easy. I am so grateful we were able to take my pain down a bit so I could enjoy my vacation. The entire team at the office are friendly and caring! I highly recommend Dr. Estess for your care!

Allyson Estess, MD

I usually don't write reviews. But felt compelled to do so, because I don't want other patients and families to go through what we have endured. After a devastating and traumatic experience with another orthopedic surgeon, our family was in a place of fear, frustration, and despair. My mother underwent a knee replacement that was so negligently handled by Dr. Shaun Chandran that it led to serious complications, putting her entire leg—and her quality of life—at risk. What followed was a grueling, hellish six months that involved three additional surgeries, endless pain, and an uphill battle to save her leg. Enter Dr. Prem Ramkumar. From the moment we met Dr. Ramkumar, there was a sense of calm, confidence, and true compassion that we hadn't experienced before. He didn't just take on my mother’s complex knee revision case—he owned it with a level of dedication and skill that can only be described as life-saving. He listened carefully, explained every option with honesty, and most importantly, treated my mother as a person, not just another patient. This wasn’t just a revision surgery—it was a rescue mission. And Dr. Ramkumar delivered. Thanks to his incredible expertise, relentless commitment, he along with Dr. Wirth saved my mother’s leg. I cannot overstate what that means to us. It makes me emotional when I think about the second chance he gave her when others had failed her so terribly. She still has a long road to recovery but when you have a team of medical professionals who have become like 2nd family by your side it makes the difficult days a bit more easier to cope with. If you’re looking for an orthopedic surgeon who is not only brilliant but also a genuinely compassionate human being, Dr. Prem Ramkumar is the one you want in your corner. Our family will forever be grateful for what he’s done—not just medically, but emotionally. He restored our hope. Thank you, Dr. Ramkumar for going above and beyond. You are a rare and extraordinary doctor and we are forever indebted to you.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

My name is Gretchen and in March 2025 Dr Prem Ramkumar performed a full knee replacement on me. And here I am 4 months later and I'm walking and biking! I first saw Dr Ramkumar in December 2024, I had been having serious knee issues and pain for about 6 months. After a lot of research around the internet I came across his website. Upon meeting Dr Ramkumar I felt comfortable. He is easy to talk to and gives you clear and concise answers. He laid out my options and told me to think about. He directed me to his comprehensive website which includes and hour by hour breakout of the operation, all medications and when they are to be administered. in addition the site includes details of when you are to start bending, straightening and walking. Along with when you start therapy. I returned 2 weeks later with questions which he answered. As in the first appointment he didn't put any pressure me to get the operation, he stressed that was my decision. I'll be honest, i was terrified. I was convinced that I would not be able to do the PT and it would be a disaster. It's funny, he kept telling me he knew I would be able to handle it. I had the operation March 2 at Long Beach Memorial, and was up and about on the 3rd. I was still afraid I would not be able to do the PT at home. The hospital staff could not have been better. The PT folks walked me through every movement I would have to make at home (in/out of bed, on/off toilet, up and down the stairs) until I was comfortable I could do it! Went home the next day and PT began coming to my house the same week. And I have never looked back! Could not recommend him more! G. lewotsky long beach CA

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I so appreciated that I was able to see Dr. Millstein himself to discuss my knee concerns. I had previously tried to see another top knee surgeon and was "blown off" by his Physician's Assistant. Dr. Millstein thoroughly discussed options for my old shattered kneecap injury and how to live my best life pain-free. His conservative approach meant I didn't need knee replacement surgery at this point. He and his staff are kind and caring and I will continuing treatment with him as needed.

Eric S. Millstein, MD

I have never had a major injury up until a few months ago. I was in denial after hurting my knee while playing slow pitch softball, but when I finally got myself to the doctor it was confirmed that I had a complete tear of the ACL and lateral meniscus. After meeting with Dr Ramkumar I let him know that I needed to have him fix me up quick because I had a full summer ahead with my 4 kids. After our first meeting I was told to build up my quad muscles to assist in my recovery. 3 weeks after our first meeting I had surgery, and just 3 days later I was out walking around on my crutches to cheer my son on while he ran a mile fun run. Within a week my pain was gone, of course my body was healing so discomfort is expected. One week after surgery my physical therapist was able to bend my knee (without pain, but some discomfort) to over 100°! At 4 weeks post op I was walking without my crutches or my knee brace. I am nearly 6 weeks post op and I am walking normally and am eagerly and patiently excited to start running around and getting back to the old me! This recovery process has been unexpectedly smooth but I have done the work and am ever so gracious to Dr Ramkumar and his team. On the surgical table I asked his team to let him know I want to be able to run faster and beat my son in a race, so I’ll be checking back in with that verdict!

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I would like to thank Dr Ramkumar for relieving me of my bone on bone knee pain. I had been dealing with this awful pain for over 2 years. Dr Prem is a great surgeon that I would highly recommend to anyone needing pain relief from knee or hip pain. I thank God for Dr Prem.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I had been suffering from severe arthritis in both knees for a number of years, always afraid of knee replacement surgery after seeing how hard it was on a family member. Now, I’m 6 weeks out from left knee replacement surgery, having had the *best possible experience* under Dr. Prem Ramkumar’s excellent care. He and his helpful staff have been with me every step of the way. His friendly demeanor put me at ease, and his knowledge and experience engendered my trust. But the best part is how well I have felt postoperatively. My pain was very well managed, and my range of motion is progressing rapidly with the help of both his in-house physical therapist as well as a handy app that has home exercises which are advanced in stages. The app also provides a lot of useful recovery information and a way to easily communicate with the office. If you need any type of knee surgery, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Ramkumar to you. I will be returning later in the year to have him replace my right knee. A+ positive experience.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I went in with a lot of right knee pain as a result of a fall on a hike. I had had an MRI but was scared and worried damage had been done. Dr Millstein appeared and went over results, fluid around the area from trauma. Gave me 2 injections and said it would take 4 months to heal. Nothing was torn nor broken. This was a relief. He was calming and professional, said he had experienced a similar injury, and assured me it will heal And pain will lessen. It is getting better. Thank goodness for modern medicine and Dr Millstein!

Eric S. Millstein, MD

I saw Dr Millstein for my left total knee replacement over a year ago…from booking my surgery, his staff and the doctor himself, it’s 5 star ⭐️’s from me. I’m even booking my next knee replacement - other side - next month!

Eric S. Millstein, MD

I can't say enough great things, about this doctor, his staff and the surgical center, where he performed my rotator cuff surgery, in November. Incredibly humble doctor, who doesn't think he's God, but truly is, in his field. Should my husband, or I need (fingers crossed that we won't) knees, or shoulders, he's our guy. Fabulous personality, too! Thanks Dr. Millstein, so happy to be back on the court!

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Eric S. Millstein, MD

I can't recommend Prem to enough people! Prem combines truly cutting-edge expertise with a warm and approachable demeanor that immediately puts you at ease. As a former collegiate athlete and special forces officer...I was nervous about dealing with chronic knee pain and truthfully possessed little hope for a return to my former self. Prem soothed my concerns and took the time to truly understand my lifestyle and goals. Young, dynamic, and highly skilled — this is the future of orthopedic care.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

Seeing Dr. Prem has honestly been the best thing that has ever happened to me. This upcoming July will be two years since I was involved in a car accident. In the accident I sustained a few injuries, a hip fracture being one of them. My career as professional soccer player who has sustained an injury that severe had left me feeling lost and scared wondering if I would ever be able to touch the pitch again. I knew it in my heart that it wasn’t over. After being discharged from the hospital and doing rehab I still felt unsure… doctors would think I was crazy or would turn me down and say “in time” on getting back to where I was at, or even worse… maybe not even able to play anymore but I knew I needed to look elsewhere and get a second opinion. When I first met Prem it was like god sent him to me. He told me his previous work and how he had worked on athletes of my caliber and I knew that he would get me to where I know I could be. Keep in mind when I met him I wasn’t able to put my knee to my chest in a 90 degree angle, I had a limp, I had tightness near my groin area, and I had metal plates in me. We created a game plan he would get me to be able to get my knee to my chest, improve my range of motion, remove those plates, and release the tension. I had faith that he could do it, and so did he. His confidence had made me trust him so much more, and his work proves it. The surgeries? A success. I now have my range of motion back to where it once was, my injuries are healed, and it’s safe to say I’m back to being on the pitch again doing what I loved since I was a kid. After countless times of being told “you may not be able to play again” it took one visit with Prem to turn that uncertainty around and prove to those that they were wrong. I owe Prem everything and I appreciate him so much.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

Dr Prem Ramkumar is truly exceptional! I was hesitant at first to get partial knee surgey, but now I can say that I’m glad I did. The level of pain and discomfort from the day of the surgery through the recovery period was minimal. With Dr Ramkumar, I know that I am in good hands.

Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA

I have had the pleasure of being a patient of Dr. Millstein since 2023. He has improved my quality of life immensely. I’m 67 years old and have bad knees. With Dr. Millstein’s recommendation of physical therapy along with cortisone injections I am able to function without pain. He is so kind and considerate, extremely knowledgeable! I highly recommend him! Do not hesitate to reach out to his staff for any questions you might have. They are all great! Make an appointment today and start enjoying your life with less pain and more joy. If I could rate him higher than 5 stars I would. 💫

Eric S. Millstein, MD

INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE – Dr. Wassef, Jason his assistant and Mason from the Stryker MAKO team were amazing! Dr. Wassef is a highly respected and sough-after joint replacement surgeon and I am thrilled with the results. I have had several different kinds of surgeries but never experienced the level of technical detail from the medical evaluation, surgery analysis, pre-op training materials, nutritional recommendations, surgical preparation, exercise training videos and Dr. Wassef’s post-surgical care. I had a severely compromised knee with bone spurs and a second knee that was not much better so I scheduled to have both knees done about 12 weeks apart. I have had some friends and family members have different experiences with joint replacement so I decided if I am going to do this once I wanted the best surgeon I could find and did extensive research. Based on Dr. Wassef’s recommendation I committed to strength training before the surgery to help with the healing process and was amazed at my recovery. The support staff was very professional and you can tell Dr. Wassef is highly respected at the surgery center based on the number of comments I received about this patient outcomes.

Andrew Wassef, MD