Patient Reviews
Thank you for choosing Southern California Orthopedic Institute for your care. We take pride in helping our patients overcome injuries, relieve pain, and return to active, healthy lifestyles.
In this section, you can read stories from patients we’ve treated about the experiences and recoveries they've had under our care.
Read what our patients are saying about Southern California Orthopedic Institute.
You can also read what our patients are saying about Southern California Orthopedic Institute by visiting our doctor profiles.
Patient Reviews
“I wanted to take this time to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to Dr. Dami Oluyede (Dr. O) and his staff for the genuine care and compassion I received prior to and after my cervical fusion in July. I met Dr. O last fall on the sidelines of a Bakersfield College Football game in 2023 where I spent 3 decades coaching. I had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Oluyede and explain to him the symptoms I was experiencing. I subsequently made an appointment to be examined by Dr. O, who requested further MRA and X-rays, confirming his suspicions.
From the pre-op appointments to the surgery and post-op appointments, I was treated with the utmost compassion and care. From the intake folks at the desk to the folks behind the lobby including Marcus, Emily, Mellissa and others, I felt like they really cared about my health, and it was obvious that I was not just another number and they wanted me to get better. I am two weeks post-surgery which is going well. I had a follow-up with Dr. O yesterday and am scheduled to see him again in September.
I hope that Dr. O and his team are recognized for their work as they have been nothing short of amazing. I hope no one on his team is left out as I cannot remember everyone involved. I also sent a similar letter to Mr. Jason Wells President of Adventist Health in Bakersfield informing him of my appreciation for their staff as well as Dr. O's.”
– Lorenzo A.
Treating Doctor: Dami O. Oluyede, MD
“Dr. Kwak is the only one I can let give me shots in my knees and shoulder. He gives me painless shots and sprays a little more cold spray because he knows I do not like shots. I have trusted him to do both my total shoulder replacement and my total knee replacement. He did an excellent job on all my surgeries. I consider him one of the best orthopedic surgeons and recommend him to friends. Thank you.”
– Tracy G.
Treating Doctor: Steve K. Kwak, MD
“From our first appointment, Dr. Ramin was easygoing and easy to understand. I had X-rays and an MRI to see what needed to be done. I felt totally at ease and knew I was in good hands. I was so relieved that it was a simple procedure. He walked me through what he would be doing to relieve my neck pain. The procedure was easy, and he was just wonderful to me. Plus, he took away the pain. I could not be any happier.”
– Susan S.
Treating Doctor: Jonathan Ramin, DO
“Dr. Vassilev and everyone on the fourth-floor surgery center were outstanding.”
– Vicente S.
Treating Doctor: Gregory Vassilev, MD
“I had a great experience with Dr. Kwak. He explained what was going on in my knee and the surgery he would perform. The surgery went very well, and he kept in contact with me every day for three weeks, either by personal phone calls or through a portal. Dr. Kwak is a kind man and a great surgeon. The staff is awesome as well.”
– Kathleen N.
Treating Doctor: Steve K. Kwak, MD
“I always have positive results after each appointment. Dr. Haroutunian listens and resolves all my issues with immediate relief. He is in my good thoughts every day.”
– Stephanie O.
Treating Doctor: Armen Haroutunian, MD
“Everyone has been professional, personable, and genuinely interested in my care and recovery. Janelle was so helpful in answering questions and making me feel confident prior to the operation. Dr. Samtani showed knowledge and insight prior to the procedure and helped me and my wife feel at ease knowing I was in his care.”
– Jonathan F.
Treating Doctor: Rahul G. Samtani, MD
“I had a virtual appointment, and I felt heard. Dr. Haroutunian gave me instructions for the next few weeks and requested an in-person follow-up. The virtual appointment started late because he was running behind, but while I was waiting, I received an email informing me, which I appreciated.”
– Elizabeth K.
Treating Doctor: Armen Haroutunian, MD
“I like Dr. Vassilev. He is very good at what he does. I asked him to help me with the pain from my fractured spine, and then he sent me to see Dr. Barcohana, who was also very good. His staff was good as well.”
– Candise K.
Treating Doctor: Gregory Vassilev, MD
“Dr. Haroutunian is the best pain management doctor I have ever seen.”
– Ron B.
Treating Doctor: Armen Haroutunian, MD