Published by Commons Clinic. [Web version](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/second-opinion/eric-millstein/) 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. Second opinions · Patient experiences # Eric S. Millstein, MD. *Second opinions reviews.* 12 five-star reviews for Dr. Eric S. Millstein discuss second opinions. Patients share stories of compassionate care and clear explanations. A second opinion is a chance to ask more questions. Read what patients valued as they explored their choices. Read the full patient accounts and original sources below. Review totals reflect the source ratings available here. [Hear from patients ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/second-opinion/eric-millstein/#review-browser) [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) [Read this page as Markdown](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/second-opinion/eric-millstein/index.md) ![Eric S. Millstein, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/eric-millstein.jpg) A person behind your care ## Get to know *Eric S. Millstein.* Dr. Eric Millstein is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and co-founder of Commons Clinic, where he helps lead a new, more connected model of musculoskeletal care. He specializes in total joint replacement of the knee and shoulder, as well as sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery, including ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff repair, and joint preservation. Known for delivering excellent outcomes and faster recoveries, Dr. Millstein combines surgical expertise with a personal, attentive style that makes patients feel truly cared for. Patients describe him as kind, clear, and highly skilled—someone who listens first, explains thoroughly, and guides them through the recovery process with confidence. His team is equally known for their warmth and professionalism, creating a care experience that’s both top-tier and deeply human. Outside the OR, Dr. Millstein is a dedicated dad to two teenagers, and likes to stay active—often on the basketball court or ski slopes. Total Knee Replacement Partial Knee Replacement Total Shoulder Replacement Reverse Total Shoulder Knee Arthroscopy Shoulder Arthroscopy [Meet Eric S. Millstein at Commons Clinic ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) ## Keep getting to know us. [All reviews for Eric S. Millstein →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) [Second opinions experiences across our team →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/second-opinion/) [Staff and office experience reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/staff/eric-millstein/) [Listening and clear explanations reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/communication/eric-millstein/) [Compassion and bedside manner reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/compassion/eric-millstein/) [Appointments and wait times reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/access-scheduling/eric-millstein/) [Knee reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/knee/eric-millstein/) [Shoulder reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/shoulder/eric-millstein/) Bring what matters to you ## Your questions *belong in the conversation.* Sometimes the next useful step is another conversation. These patient accounts mention second or additional opinions and the questions people brought to our clinicians. - What would I like another opinion to help me understand? - Which details in these patient accounts would I like to ask our team about? In their own words ## Care feels personal. *So do these stories.* These are individual experiences. A topic mention does not establish who performed a procedure, medical suitability or a typical result. This collection shows written reviews rated 4 or 5 stars that mention second opinions. You can read every rating and written review on [the full clinician profile](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) . 12 written reviews Highest rated first · Newest within each rating > Dr Millstein seemed sincere in his second opinion assessment of my patella fracture and in the best course moving forward G. Caine Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: 38 weeks ago [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/117840301938404633916/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Met w/ Dr Eric Millstein on Monday for a second opinion. It was a very useful meeting, and he recommended having a Manipulation which I will do. B. Brown Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Sep 24, 2025 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/106349043786017936237/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > I had a problem with my knee for nine months, and had been seeing another orthopedic surgeon who had misdiagnosed me. Luckily, I had the good sense to obtain a second opinion from Dr. Millstein. > > Dr. Millstein made a diagnosis in literally two minutes, and my knee was operated on about two weeks later. After nine months of walking with extreme pain in my right knee, I obtained complete relief in a very short period of time. > > Extremely grateful to be able to walk without pain, and extremely grateful to this excellent doctor, who did not even need to obtain any imaging studies whatsoever to make my diagnosis. > > As a doctor myself, my advice for anyone out there who is experiencing frustration with their doctors's diagnosis is to obtain a second opinion! Not all doctors know what the hell they're doing. And with medicine getting busier and crazier than ever before, and insurance companies less and less willing to pay for tests, outstanding doctors such as Dr. Millstein are becoming more and more crucial. B. K. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 1/7/25 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=j32ZvGpkguIAsjxktjb_lA&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 one of the few orthopedists I have been to who recommends non-invasive procedures before heading straight for surgery. He is honest, kind, so smart and has so much integrity. This is my second, second opinion for my osteoarthritic knee issues over a four year period. He hasn't steered me wrong yet. I highly recommend him and have great respect for his insights. Rosemary Amendola-Sellers R. Sellers Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Aug 26, 2024 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/111158805642807930653/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > I initially sought a second opinion from Dr. Eric Millstein, but after meeting with him, I decided to continue my care with him. Dr. Millstein's attentiveness and genuine listening made a significant impact on me. His excellent bed manners and the courtesy of his staff further enhanced my experience. I am extremely satisfied with the care I am receiving and highly recommend Dr. Milstein for his professionalism and compassionate approach. B. Levy Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Aug 24, 2024 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/103937724843893381759/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > I saw Dr Millstein for a second opinion on a knee replacement surgery. His recommendation was very straight forward and direct. He gave me exactly the information I needed to move forward with the knee replacement. P. Brown Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: May 8, 2024 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/113535568995097979811/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Dr. Millstein was my second opinion and his diagnosis and bedside manner inspire complete confidence. Dr. Millstein is my number one choice to do my surgery! Two colleagues had successful outcomes after Dr. Millstein operated on them. This is a complicated surgery and I'm feeling positive with Dr. Millstein as my surgeon! M. Mendelson Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: Jan 5, 2022 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/105195999626860017425/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Dr. Millstein presented as very knowledgeable, caring and honest. I saw him for a third opinion and although he could've easily made money from my great PPO plan, he asked my about my future plans in regards to my desire for activity level and sports. He recommended a conservative approach and gave me hope instead of scaring me and talking me into surgery. I think it shows great character and honesty in a true professional. M. K. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 1/4/19 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=uyMoHQZVO7kPDY6Y93u_YQ&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 > OUTSTANDING! Just had Dr. Millstein perform surgery on my torn meniscus. He was actually my 'second opinion' doctor and i found his explanation of the surgery and its ramifications to be thorough and understandable to me -- a frustrated old sports player. Prior to the surgery, Dr. Millstein literally showed me through the entire procedure -- with pictures! The surgery was painless and the healing process has been much more pleasant than the last three months trying to live with the torn meniscus while going through physical therapy. His bedside demeanor is very friendly and compassionate without being patronizing or obsequious. V. V. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 3/5/13 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=rDh5PLT0lBSooiesm9uSrg&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > Wonderful doctor! Friendly, efficient, knowledgeable, skilled, responsive, and respectful. Dr. Millstein operated on my torn meniscus. When discussing the problem and possible solutions, Dr. Millstein thoroughly answered all of my questions and encouraged me to get a second opinion. When I had a follow up question after my appointment, his clinic's on-call service was able to address my concern. When the time came for surgery (which Dr. Millstein was able to schedule promptly), Dr. Millstein was a pro. Afterwards, he showed me, through images, exactly what he had done. I was back on my feet very quickly. Highly recommended. J. G. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 3/6/12 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=RyN780QzohcNHlgJ6feZAQ&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD > This is the first time that I have written a review on Yelp. I was compelled to do so after receiving wonderful care from Dr. Millstein. I had a terrible experience with the first doctor I saw, Bert Mandelbaum, and asked family and friends for a new recommendation. My uncle (bless his soul) recommended Dr. MIllstein. My uncle had both knees replaced by Millstein and absolutely loved him. Side note: I later found out that my very good friend went to Millstein after a car accident badly damaged her knee and she raved about him. I called his office and had an appt within 3-4 days. I waited about 30 minutes, for which he apologized, but I told him it was not a problem after the 2+ hour wait I had with Mandelbaum. He noticed that I had a swollen bursa in my knee and gave me a cortisone shot. Problem solved. The pain dissipated and it never returned. I would recommend Dr. Millstein a million times over. He is smart, caring and great at what he does. He takes his time, displays compassion and figures out the problem. I went to a top knee specialist prior to Millstein, and he completely misdiagnosed me. I am so very glad that I got a second opinion. Millstein will be my first choice if I ever experience another knee issue. He is fabulous! Not only do I highly recommend him, but my good friend and and my uncle do as well. So consider this three reviews in one. Good luck! B. V. Rating: 5/5 · Source: Yelp · Date: 5/4/10 [Read review on Yelp](https://yelp.com/biz/eric-millstein-md-santa-monica?hrid=2ifgFqYF2-z1PlobnBXH-w&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=biz_post_share&l=en_US) Source link type: verified permalink Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD A little more understanding ## Feel ready for *your next conversation.* Patient experience ### [7 ways to make an orthopedic second opinion useful](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/orthopedic-second-opinion-los-angeles/) A second opinion can help you understand a diagnosis, compare treatment choices, or make sense of a recommendation that still feels unclear. Preparing around the decision you face makes the conversation more useful, whether you are arranging care in Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Monica, or elsewhere. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/orthopedic-second-opinion-los-angeles/) Spine ### [7 questions to clarify an opinion about spine surgery](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/spine-surgery-second-opinion/) A second opinion can confirm a plan or reveal a useful difference. Prepare the same records and questions so you can understand where the recommendations agree—and why they may differ. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/spine-surgery-second-opinion/) ## Complete review collection [Read all 12 written reviews in this collection](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/second-opinion/eric-millstein/all.md) ## Review pages in Markdown Previous: This is the first review page. Next: This is the last review page. - [Page 1](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/review-topics/second-opinion/eric-millstein/index.md) ## Publisher & attribution Commons Clinic Reviews is operated by Commons Clinic. This website is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Google, Zocdoc, or Yelp. Google, Google Maps, and Google Business Profile are trademarks of Google LLC. Zocdoc and the Zocdoc logo are trademarks of Zocdoc, Inc. Yelp and the Yelp logo are registered trademarks of Yelp Inc. All third-party names and logos belong to their respective owners and identify the original review sources. © 2026 Commons Clinic. All rights reserved.