Stephen Schendel, MD (retired)

I am 28F and was diagnosed with a rare pituitary tumor resulting in a condition called acromegaly in 2015. Because of this condition my brow grew, the soft tissue in my face increased and the right side of my jaw grew asymmetrically which resulted in a quickly developed underbite. After surgically controlling the tumor by an SF neurosurgeon to ensure no more growth would occur, my husband and I sought help for the physical changes to my face. I wanted someone to help reverse some of the negative effects this condition caused. The first experience I ever had in Dr. Schendels office was not only extremely informative, but also comforting. His caring disposition, confidence in his work, and interest in my well being left me hopeful and excited for the first time in 3 years. Dr. Schendel operated on my brow and forehead to reduce the effects of the growth, made it look more feminine and operated on the soft tissue on my eyelids to return them to the way they looked before my diagnosis. All of my questions were answered every step of the way, when there was a mix up with the pharmacy post surgery, Dr. Schendel and his wonderful staff (Jokasta and Carolyn) went above and beyond to make sure my husband was able to get the necessary medication before I woke up from surgery. I will have corrective Jaw surgery(orthognathic) in the summer. I have full confidence in Dr. Schendel. I know that he cares and I know that not only will my jaw be functional and pain free again, but he will do everything in his power to make it beautiful as well. Thank you Dr. Schendel and Team. You guys have been a positive light in the midst of some crazy health turns. Thank you for helping me feel like myself again, I can't wait for the next steps.

Best decision I ever made was to have a mid-face lift with Dr. Schendel. He listened to my concerns and came up with a strategy that I would be pleased with. Dr. Schendel has a great bedside manner and put my fears to rest pre-surgery. He and his staff were very attentive post surgery as well. I look renewed and refreshed not "done". I no longer cringe when I look in the mirror. Thank you for giving me a decade+ back.

Before surgery, my lower jaw was 15mm recessed. After surgery, it was still 13mm recessed. Dr. Schendel left me with a posterior open bite and made an unstable move of lowering my upper jaw, essentially giving me clockwise rotation when I needed counter-clockwise rotation. Because of this, I cannot chew food or sleep and I am in 24/7 muscular pain. These are permanent conditions that require revision surgery to correct. When I asked him for a refund so I could correct the problems, he told me he would no longer be responding to me and to talk to his insurance company. Please see the cephalometric attached. You can see clearly the skeleton has not at all been corrected.