Rick Buyalos
Fertility & Surgical Associates of California
Available Lines of Communication
Doctor email
Nurse email
Nurse email
Direct line to doctor
Direct line to nurse
Direct line to nurse
Doctor personal cell phone
Medical SchoolThomas Jefferson
ResidencyGeorgetown
FellowshipUCLA
Thousand Oaks
325 Rolling Oaks Dr
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
805-778-1122
20 assessments
9
7
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF, Egg Freezing, 1 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
9
7
We did stimulated egg retrieval, ICSI, PGS/PGD, and hormone supported FET [with Dr. Rick Buyalos]. Before retrieval we had sperm analysis. During retrieval, saline ultrasound was performed, and before FET, endometrial biopsy was conducted...always took the time to listen to our concerns. He would greet us in the hall by name before we were even in a room. Only two of my visits were with other highly qualified partners.
Cash discount is $9500 for retrieval, storage - 1 year, and 1 transfer [at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California]. Does not cover nurse anesthetist $400, medication $4000+, or PGS/PGD through external company. Any procedures that could be billed to insurance were. Cost does not include co-payments from insurance...Clinic strongly recommends only one embryo transfer at a time.
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF, Egg Freezing, 1 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
9
7
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos had experience with other couples seeking IVF with PGD/PGS to prevent the passing of genetic mutations. He was very familiar with the process. He was concerned about low ovarian reserve and the number of cycles that would be needed to find a genetically normal embryo to transfer. We got two healthy embryos from our first cycle. Only set back that occurred was that he thought I had a uterine polyp that he tried to surgically remove, but could not be found at procedure. Was believed to be an artifact seen on ultrasound at egg retrieval.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos always took the time to listen to our concerns. He would greet us in the hall by name before we were even in a room. Only two of my visits were with other highly qualified partners.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
We did stimulated egg retrieval, ICSI, PGS/PGD, and hormone supported FET.
Before retrieval we had sperm analysis. During retrieval, saline ultrasound was performed, and before FET, endometrial biopsy was conducted.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Most of the nurses we worked with were great. Every so often there would be a nurse or two that seemed to fail in communicating things properly, or showed little compassion.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Do a lot of your own research on the overall costs. Some costs are upfront and others come down the line. It is hard to see the big picture in the beginning. Do as much research on your own as possible about all infertility treatments. If something doesn't seem correct, ask questions.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Cash discount is $9500 for retrieval, storage - 1 year, and 1 transfer. Does not cover nurse anesthetist $400, medication $4000+, or PGS/PGD through external company. Any procedures that could be billed to insurance were. Cost does not include co-payments from insurance.
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Clinic strongly recommends only one embryo transfer at a time.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
- Provided conflicting information
- Read less
10
10
Age
41
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IUI, 2 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
We did one medicated IUI with Dr. Buyalos and when that wasn’t successful (we had done one prior with another clinic) we moved on to egg retrieval and embryo transfer. We did two back to back egg retrievals...is warm, caring, and compassionate. When we met him for a consult, we both felt this was a great doctor and a great fit for us...He’s confident in what he’s doing but absolutely open to making adjustments based on your feedback or concerns. I found him to be a partner in addition to the captain steering the ship.
Michelle and the other nurses [at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California] made the experience pleasurable. I cannot overstate how wonderful the nursing staff was over the course of the 8 months we worked with the clinic...Around $10k for egg retrieval and one embryo transfer, not including cost of medications. Reduces to $8.5k for subsequent retrieval/transfers. This is the cash price but they will work with your insurance if you have coverage and they were extremely helpful in navigating whether we had coverage and how it would work.
Age
41
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 8 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, 2 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos is a very good doctor in terms of experience and skill set. He’s confident in what he’s doing but absolutely open to making adjustments based on your feedback or concerns. I found him to be a partner in addition to the captain steering the ship.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
If you come with questions or ideas about alternative courses of treatment, Dr. Buyalos is willing to listen and give his honest opinion on whether it’s worth trying and if not, he’ll explain why.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos is warm, caring, and compassionate. When we met him for a consult, we both felt this was a great doctor and a great fit for us.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
We did one medicated IUI with Dr. Buyalos and when that wasn’t successful (we had done one prior with another clinic) we moved on to egg retrieval and embryo transfer. We did two back to back egg retrievals using BC pills, clomid, menopur, gonal-f, omnitrope, cetrotide, and hcg 1000/lupron 20 units as trigger.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California. (Assigned nurse: Michelle E. )
Michelle and the other nurses made the experience pleasurable. I cannot overstate how wonderful the nursing staff was over the course of the 8 months we worked with the clinic.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Strengths - experienced, compassionate doctors and nursing staff. Quality on-site lab. Very well run office with little waiting time. Nurses call the same day with lab results and the doctor’s will call themselves if you have questions. We found it to be the most personable and efficient operation of any of the fertility clinics we’ve used.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Around $10k for egg retrieval and one embryo transfer, not including cost of medications. Reduces to $8.5k for subsequent retrieval/transfers. This is the cash price but they will work with your insurance if you have coverage and they were extremely helpful in navigating whether we had coverage and how it would work.
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8
8
Age
33
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
8
8
During the first IUI treatments I was on Letrozole, and Follistem, when that failed he [Dr. Buyalos] changed me to Chlomid. After 3 failed attempts at IUI we have proceeded with IVF. We are just in the beginning stages of IVF to determine the treatment strategy that I will be placed on based off of my diagnosis...he was readily available for our very first appointments, but he was not available during our actual insemination procedure both times. It appeared as though he traveled a lot during our procedures so we did not see him often.
The nursing staff at Fertility and Associates are very kind and empathetic. They take their time to answer all of your questions and address any concerns right away...We really appreciated that upon our very first consultation, they schedule a financial appointment to go over pricing and treatments, they provide you with a very specific breakdown of every treatment so you are not ever surprised in the future. The one thing I did notice was that there is no "emergency" number to contact in case of a medication or treatment emergency. They are open Sat and Sun early in the morning so in the event you leave a voicemail someone gets back to you as soon as possible but the idea that there was no contact 24/7 made me uneasy.
Age
33
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Latino
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
8
8
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyolos is compassionate, understanding and is very thorough in explaining your diagnosis and treatments. No question was a dumb question for him. He took his time with my husband and I, and really explained the process, and our diagnosis. He educated us on both IUI and IVF and while suggesting IVF first I felt that I wasn't ready for the treatment so we proceeded with IUI. Dr. B was present for the first few appointments we had but after that we did not see him often if at all. My husband and I completed 2 full rounds of IUI and the third had to be canceled. We then decided to proceed with IVF after a conversation with my OB where he stated that he felt I was wasting my time with IUI and with my diagnosis he would recommend I proceed with IVF, so I walked into the clinic and told Dr. B I was not ready for IVF. Because Dr. B had been traveling quite a bit during my first treatments I was concerned that he would not be available for our very first round of IVF however his staff informed me that he is very present during IVF and will be at every on of my appointments. It is too early to evaluate him based off my IVF round as we are just in the early stages. I am hopeful that he will be just as involved as he was in our journey at the very beginning.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
I would encourage every patient to go in with a list of questions already prepared for Dr. Buyalos. My husband and I found ourselves thinking of questions after meeting him, so bring the list and go through it with Dr. B upon your first visit.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Upon my very first meeting with Dr. Buyolos he was very kind and understanding and really put my husband and I at ease. We walked into the clinic scared of the unknown and really feeling like there was no hope for us but Dr. B made us feel like we were in very good hands with him. We started our fertility journey with IUI and he was readily available for our very first appointments, but he was not available during our actual insemination procedure both times. It appeared as though he traveled a lot during our procedures so we did not see him often. Now that we have proceeded with our very first round of IVF it is a concern that I voiced to the clinic and they assured me that Dr B is much more involved during IVF. And the clinic let me know his travel schedule to assure me there would be no conflicts. It is too early to tell if he will be just as invested in our procedure but I am hopeful based on the reviews I've read about him.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
During the first IUI treatments I was on Letrozole, and Follistem, when that failed he changed me to Chlomid. After 3 failed attempts at IUI we have proceeded with IVF. We are just in the beginning stages of IVF to determine the treatment strategy that I will be placed on based off of my diagnosis.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursing staff at Fertility and Associates are very kind and empathetic. They take their time to answer all of your questions and address any concerns right away.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Every member of the staff at Fertility and Associates are amazing and kind. We really appreciated that upon our very first consultation, they schedule a financial appointment to go over pricing and treatments, they provide you with a very specific breakdown of every treatment so you are not ever surprised in the future. The one thing I did notice was that there is no "emergency" number to contact in case of a medication or treatment emergency. They are open Sat and Sun early in the morning so in the event you leave a voicemail someone gets back to you as soon as possible but the idea that there was no contact 24/7 made me uneasy.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
For our IUI procedures my husband and I have not paid anything yet because we do have medical coverage that covers our IUI treatments. The only thing not covered was our medication. Every round we paid approx $300 for medication. We just placed an order for our IVF medication and have paid $3500.
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9
10
Age
30 - 32
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
5 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Tubal Blockage, Uterine Fibroids, Unexplained
9
10
Dr Buyalos took the time to sit with me and explain things to me. But at times would mix my case with someone else’s case and I would need to explain that was someone else. I understand, after seeing so many patients a day, we start to blend. When I found out that we had 0 viable embryos to transfer after retrieval, I was a mess. Dr Buyalos took the time to sit with me and explain everything and my options, which made me feel like a human.
Very friendly staff [Fertility & Surgical Associates of CA]. There were long wait times, but to me that isn’t a problem. Offices are busy so I go in expecting to wait. Everyone very nice. My one wish is that if egg retrieval results in 0 embryos, that a portion of the money I paid would be credited back for next cycle but that is not the case....Stephanie was excellent. Michelle was also great. They were both very knowledgeable and amazing. They answered all my questions and it was clear they were very knowledgeable.
Age
30 - 32
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Latino
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Tubal Blockage, Uterine Fibroids, Unexplained
9
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr Buyalos explained everything in detail and answered all my questions. I wanted to know it all and he took the time to explain things. But at times it seemed as though he was overbooked and would need to go because was so busy, but I understand that. He is very optimistic which made me very optimistic that treatment would work so when it did not, I was crushed. I think I need doctors to be more realistic with me. Tell me the statistics and not just tell me it will work. Dr Buyalos is a very nice and caring doctor and has so much knowledge.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Go with list of questions to ask. And know that he will be a big cheerleader for you! But remember that there are no guarantees that you will come out of treatment pregnant.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr Buyalos took the time to sit with me and explain things to me. But at times would mix my case with someone else’s case and I would need to explain that was someone else. I understand, after seeing so many patients a day, we start to blend. When I found out that we had 0 viable embryos to transfer after retrieval, I was a mess. Dr Buyalos took the time to sit with me and explain everything and my options, which made me feel like a human.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
I don’t remember specifics. But during first IUIs I was on clomid and menopur and suppositories. Eventually the oral meds began to change. I do not remember the medications used for egg retrieval, I have the paperwork but too sensitive to look at it again. It’s been 6 months.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie)
Stephanie was excellent. Michelle was also great. They were both very knowledgeable and amazing. They answered all my questions and it was clear they were very knowledgeable. At times one nurse would fill in, I believe her name is Alejandra. I did not care for her style and I feel like she still had a lot to learn.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Very friendly staff. There were long wait times, but to me that isn’t a problem. Offices are busy so I go in expecting to wait. Everyone very nice. My one wish is that if egg retrieval results in 0 embryos, that a portion of the money I paid would be credited back for next cycle but that is not the case.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
During my IUIs, I had insurance that covered part of the treatment. Out of pocket my 5 iuis cost about 2-3 thousand I would estimate. My egg retrieval totaled just over 20 thousand, including the medications and genetic testing.
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
I did not get viable embryos but if I had the plan was to implant 2, which I wanted. And for my age and history, I think that is appropriate.
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10
10
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
10
Dr. B [Buyalos] is a wonderful doctor. He listened to my whole story, and his office was so personal. He told me a bit about himself and I felt like he wanted to get to know exactly what was going on with me. Dr. B was prepared with a presentation and things to show me on my first visit. He had a plan for me with multiple steps, and it was customized to my specific situation.... I have a low egg reserve for my age, 33. My HSG test was good, no blockages. I have no problems with my uterus and my husband has a high sperm count, good motility, morphology, etc
I recommend this clinic [Fertility & Surgical Associates of CA]. Each member of the staff are easy to work with and kind, from the receptionist to the doctor. The after hours care line is easy to use and when I needed the dr. after hours, I was able to talk directly to my Dr. when I needed to. The clinic is clean, the rooms are comfy, well as comfy as exam rooms can be =) Also, the office is organized well, meaning there is a person for every step. The waiting area, the exam rooms, room for blood draws, waiting area in the back
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. B listens, and is prepared for every visit. Even when I can tell it is busy at the clinic, he doesn't seem rushed with me. On my first visit, we were in his office, and it was so personal. He listened to my whole story and told me a bit about himself. He wasn't afraid to spend time just getting to know me and not just about the infertility. Dr. B is also careful to answer any questions I have thoroughly.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Ask any questions you have because he will treat you with respect and always answer your questions fully.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. B is a wonderful doctor. He listened to my whole story, and his office was so personal. He told me a bit about himself and I felt like he wanted to get to know exactly what was going on with me. Dr. B was prepared with a presentation and things to show me on my first visit. He had a plan for me with multiple steps, and it was customized to my specific situation. Dr. B listens when I ask questions, and always make sure to have time for me.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
I have a low egg reserve for my age, 33. My HSG test was good, no blockages. I have no problems with my uterus and my husband has a high sperm count, good motility, morphology, etc.. Dr. B started with two months of timed intercourse using Letrozole 5mg. On the third month we did an IUI cycle, also with 5mg of Letrozole. The fourth month the Dr. gave me the option to try Clomid or keep using Letrozole, he was happy with the results of the Letrozole, but recommended at some time trying Clomid, since I had not gotten pregnant. I wanted to do one more month with Letrozole, so he added Follistim 0.1ml to inject three times during the course of Letrozole. Each of these four cycles (2 timed and two IUI) I used Ovidrel as my trigger shot. After the four months, Dr. B said we should either move to IVF, because the success rate of IUI and timed is less after about four times, or he said we can do one more round of IUI. I am just about to start this round of IUI and will be using Clomid this time. I do not know the dosage yet.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California. (Assigned nurse: Megan)
I do not always have Megan, but I have her most of the time as my nurse. She is absolutely amazing! Megan has been compassionate, thorough, and goes above and beyond every time. I have her email, and she always answers all my questions. The other staff at the clinic are kind, helpful, and are good at what they do.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
I recommend this clinic. Each member of the staff are easy to work with and kind, from the receptionist to the doctor. The after hours care line is easy to use and when I needed the dr. after hours, I was able to talk directly to my Dr. when I needed to. The clinic is clean, the rooms are comfy, well as comfy as exam rooms can be =) Also, the office is organized well, meaning there is a person for every step. The waiting area, the exam rooms, room for blood draws, waiting area in the back when you wait for a nurse and then the payment desk. It is all clear and someone walks you to each area.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
My HSG test, semen analysis, consultation, blood draws, and ultrasounds related to diagnostics were covered by my insurance. After that, ultrasounds were $175, and I needed two per timed or IUI cycle. The progesterone they gave me free or I had to pay $20 when I ran out. The Ovidrel was $105.00 each time, and was shipped to my house. The Letrozole was paid for by my insurance the first time and was about $20 each other time from the CVS pharmacy. Each IUI with the sperm wash was $360. Dr. B's office waives the office visit fee if you are paying out of pocket. My insurance doesn't cover fertility treatment, just the diagnosis part, so now I am paying out of pocket.
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
N/A
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10
10
Age
46
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
10 IUI, 5 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
10
Dr. Buyalos is the most caring and compassionate doctor I have encountered, and he is genuinely caring and he is willing to help patients and put their financial and emotional stress in consideration. Dr. Buyalos has surperb skills and he constantly changing protocols based on my blood work and follicles counts and age and he is much more concise...He actually reduced my injectables and used clomid for the first 7 days because my age and higher FSH, for older woman less medication is actually more effective. He added Gonal F and menupor and omnitrope after 7 days, and then he added citride as an antagonist.
My first IVF [at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California] was $9900, and then the second and third was 7500$, and the fourth was $5500...There is no hidden fees and they are transparent about their fees. The doctors are dedicated and staff are friendly. It is a little challenging to reach them after hours because you will have to go through an answering services and the staff may take a while to get back to you...There are many good nurses such as Michaelle G and Stephine, because they genuinely care about their patients and compassionate about it.
Age
46
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
East Asian
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
4th of 4 Docs
Treatment
10 IUI, 5 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos is the most caring and compassionate doctor I have encountered, and he is genuinely caring and he is willing to help patients and put their financial and emotional stress in consideration. Dr. Buyalos has surperb skills and he constantly changing protocols based on my blood work and follicles counts and age and he is much more concise. Most important of all, he genuinely cares.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
If you are an older woman or have infertility issues, please see Dr. Buyalos, and he will use all his power to help you to success.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos is the best fertility doctor and the most caring doctor I have encountered, and he understood my emotional and financial stress lot better than other doctors. he genuinely cares about his patients. He also is a dedicated learner that he is learning Chinese so he can communicate with many Chinese patients from China in his clinic. He can speak pretty good Chinese Mandarin while He is only taking classes in 2 years. He is willing to help patients and put their financial stress in consideration. He also constantly change protocols based on my blood work and my age and follicles counts rather than use the same protocols on medications like other doctors. He has superior skills and much more concise. Most important of all, he genuinely cares.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
He actually reduced my injectables and used clomid for the first 7 days because my age and higher FSH, for older woman less medication is actually more effective. He added Gonal F and menupor and omnitrope after 7 days, and then he added citride as an antagonist.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
There are many good nurses such as Michaelle G and Stephine, because they genuinely care about their patients and compassionate about it.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
This clinic only focus on fertility treatment which is great, because they specialize in one thing and it is cheaper to do fertility treatment there than most of the clinics. There is no hidden fees and they are transparent about their fees. The doctors are dedicated and staff are friendly. It is a little challenging to reach them after hours because you will have to go through an answering services and the staff may take a while to get back to you.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
It is pretty easy to make an appointment or change an appointment once I am a patient here. The first consultation appointment takes about one month to get in.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
My first IVF was with Dr. Huburt in the same clinic and it was $9900, and then the second and third was 7500$, and the fourth was $5500.
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
He would like to transferred one embryo if it is tested
- Read less
10
10
Age
37
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
I was never rushed, Dr took his time to explain protocols & procedures & answer any questions I have... Dr. Buyalos was thorough in explaining all of my options. He changed protocols when one didn’t work. He walked me through all procedures & answered all of my questions. His 24/7 availability was really important In my treatment since timing as we all know is most important. I love that he is realistic in his expectations & he makes you believe that things are going to work & he’s not going to stop till it does.
Their strengths are that they [Fertility & Surgical Assoc of CA] are available 24/7. There are several Dr’s there to help you with your journey. The nursing staff is amazing.... They all want this to work for you just as bad as you want it to work. They listen to Your concerns, calm your nerves & genuinely care for you. They explain your protocols thoroughly & even make you a calendar to help keep things organized... I really don’t have any negatives I’ve experienced so far in my journey
Age
37
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos was thorough in explaining all of my options. He changed protocols when one didn’t work. He walked me through all procedures & answered all of my questions. His 24/7 availability was really important In my treatment since timing as we all know is most important. I love that he is realistic in his expectations & he makes you believe that things are going to work & he’s not going to stop till it does.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Be patient...be optimistic, trust your Dr!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
I was never rushed, Dr took his time to explain protocols & procedures & answer any questions I have
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
I have PCOS & have very slow growing follicles. Right away he started me off on a higher dose of Clomid, when that wasn’t working he switched to Femara. That worked! Unfortunately the IUI didn’t work. 2nd cycle he started on Femara, after a week on that we switched to high dose of Clomid & that worked. However the IUI didn’t work. Now my 3rd cycle we did higher dose of Femara for longer intervals & it worked. I’m currently in 2WW!
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
They are amazing. They all want this to work for you just as bad as you want it to work. They listen to
Your concerns, calm your nerves & genuinely care for you. They explain your protocols thoroughly & even make you a calendar to help keep things organized
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Their strengths are that they are available 24/7. There are several Dr’s there to help you with your journey. The nursing staff is amazing. I really don’t have any negatives I’ve experienced so far in my journey
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
My monitoring is $150/ ultrasound & the IUI procedure itself was $255
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10
10
Age
33 - 36
Treated
2014 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IVF, 1 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Male Factor
10
10
First we had my wife checked out and he looked over her previous records and stated he was not concerned with endometriosis. He then had me do another sperm analysis. I was then refer to Dr. Zeitlin do to low sperm count. Here I did several tests; prostate check, ultrasound and he started me on medication. I began to take Anastrozole 1 mg daily and Clomiphene Citrate 50mg a half pill every other day. They continued to test sperm and added in CoQ10 to help as well. After using this for several months my results improved and Dr. Buyalos said IVF would be our best route. We then worked on getting money together and began to order meds and set up schedule. My wife was seen many times whil
IVF was around $10,000, PGS testing $3,500 , meds were around $4,000 and extra cost of labs, and procedure between $1,000-$2,000...The nursing staff was very informative and always very warm and friendly. They always greeted us and after a few visits some even remembered our names and that made us feel like we chose the right place to help us with our procedure. Whatever questions we had they would answer for us they always wanted to make sure that we were doing okay and just like like Doctor Buyalos they were very enthusiastic to help and very positive that they can help us conceive our first child.
Age
33 - 36
Treated
2014 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
—
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF, 1 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Male Factor
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
From our very first visit Doctor Buyalos was very informative and very enthusiastic to help us with our situation. He always was very thorough and detailed on what the next steps were. While in his office we saw that he even used some type of phone service to record what was decided in our first meeting with him and he would continue to use this every time we met with him. He called us within a few days of our first meeting and wanted to check up on us and see if we were taking proper steps needed to help eliminate other factors before jumping into IVF. At one time he called us when he was out of the country to check up on us and see how we were doing and to make sure that we being on schedule with the testing that he had recommended us to do. It was all very new to us and in our area the doctors are nowhere as thorough and informative as Doctor Buyalos. We do not mind the drive of three and a half hours from where we live in Hanford to Thousand Oaks because we know that every appointment with Doctor Buyalos will be informative and thorough and always focused on our needs and we love the fact that every test we need can be done in his office.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Do not be afraid to ask questions. Doctor Buyalos is very good at explaining everything and every step of the IVF process.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
I felt that we were treated as humans because after the first visit he remembered our names and he was always very enthusiastic in the way he talked to us and he always treated kind and with respect.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
First we had my wife checked out and he looked over her previous records and stated he was not concerned with endometriosis. He then had me do another sperm analysis. I was then refer to Dr. Zeitlin do to low sperm count. Here I did several tests; prostate check, ultrasound and he started me on medication. I began to take Anastrozole 1 mg daily and Clomiphene Citrate 50mg a half pill every other day. They continued to test sperm and added in CoQ10 to help as well. After using this for several months my results improved and Dr. Buyalos said IVF would be our best route. We then worked on getting money together and began to order meds and set up schedule. My wife was seen many times while on injections and blood tested as well. All meds were used and never adjusted as he said she was responding very well. On day of retrieval he projected 17 eggs and we were shocked to hear 30 eggs were retrieved. On day one of fertilization we had 22 on day 3 we still had 22 and both us and doctor were shocked. By day 5 we had 4 ready to freeze and possibly 5 more. We ended up with 7 embryos before PGS testing.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursing staff was very informative and always very warm and friendly. They always greeted us and after a few visits some even remembered our names and that made us feel like we chose the right place to help us with our procedure. Whatever questions we had they would answer for us they always wanted to make sure that we were doing okay and just like like Doctor Buyalos they were very enthusiastic to help and very positive that they can help us conceive our first child.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
The clinic is very clean and every person at the front desk is very welcoming and very helpful. They always greet you and they always offer you something to drink. Overall the clinic and its staff are amazing.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
IVF was around $10,000, PGS testing $3,500 , meds were around $4,000 and extra cost of labs, and procedure between $1,000-$2,000.
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Doctor Buyalos recommended that we only do 1 embryo for our first transfer because he did not want us to have any complications and informed us on how multiple embryo transfers can have more complications and be more difficult on the female patient.
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10
10
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
I left another clinic because I felt like a number and wanted personal attention. From our 1st apt, he [Dr. Rick Buyalos] spent over an hour with us, explaining the entire process of IUI and IVF, looking over our previous test results, getting background medical history, preforming US before making any recommendations. Several times he mentioned having to change treatment plans and set up phone calls since we were over 3.5 hrs away. He adapted his schedule so we could have later apts due to our drive. I do like that Dr B preforms all US, which I've learned is not always the case. Monitoring apts are VERY quick.
IVF was $9600 FET was $3600 [at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California]...The nurses here are the BEST! After monitoring apts, I would sit down with the nurses to go over meds, schedule other apts, and explain anything I wanted to understand. All phone calls were returned same day for any and all questions. I can't say enough about them!...Open 365 days a year, with morning apts on weenends and holidays. This is VERY important when doing IUI and ER since they are time sensitive. There is an after hours phone service that takes messages and a doctor is on call all the time. I had some bleeding and one of the doctors returned my call a half an hour later on Easter Sunday. Also, the doctors cover foreachother for monitoring apts- although it is YOUR primary doctor that has the final say in your treatment.
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
I left another clinic because I felt like a number and wanted personal attention. From our 1st apt, he spent over an hour with us, explaining the entire process of IUI and IVF, looking over our previous test results, getting background medical history, preforming US before making any recommendations. Several times he mentioned having to change treatment plans and set up phone calls since we were over 3.5 hrs away. He adapted his schedule so we could have later apts due to our drive.
I do like that Dr B preforms all US, which I've learned is not always the case. Monitoring apts are VERY quick.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr B is very knowledgeable and kind. He truly cares about you as a patient and wants the best outcome for you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Everyone from the office staff, nurses and Dr. B. were concerned with me as a person and spent time with me to make sure I understood everything. They rearranged their schedule for apts since I was traveling 3.5 hrs to each apt and the nurses made me feel like I was a part of their family.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California. (Assigned nurse: Michelle)
The nurses here are the BEST! After monitoring apts, I would sit down with the nurses to go over meds, schedule other apts, and explain anything I wanted to understand.
All phone calls were returned same day for any and all questions. I can't say enough about them!
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Open 365 days a year, with morning apts on weenends and holidays. This is VERY important when doing IUI and ER since they are time sensitive.
There is an after hours phone service that takes messages and a doctor is on call all the time. I had some bleeding and one of the doctors returned my call a half an hour later on Easter Sunday.
Also, the doctors cover foreachother for monitoring apts- although it is YOUR primary doctor that has the final say in your treatment.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
IVF was $9600
FET was $3600
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Single embryo transfers are preferred, but Dr B allowed us to transfer 2 since they were not PGS tested. Also he commented that I had a long torso and would be able to handle twins if both embryos implanted.
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10
10
Age
36 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Unexplained
10
10
He [Dr. Rick Buyalos] really took the time to understand our case and give us options. He didn't push us in a certain direction and was very candid with us about our situation. Very warm, intelligent, and caring...He spent a great deal of time with us when we first met with him and helped us understand our case. He was honest and warm. He's very skilled, very intelligent, and very passionate...
They {Fertility & Surgery Associates of California] are very busy, so expect to wait sometimes and for appointments to take a long time...Office isn't great and you can be on hold when you call a great deal...You were with a different [nurse] each time, so we got to where we requested certain people (like Courtney!). Other nurses were not so great at presenting information.
Age
36 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
He spent a great deal of time with us when we first met with him and helped us understand our case. He was honest and warm. He's very skilled, very intelligent, and very passionate. I cannot say enough good things about him.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Don't be afraid to ask him pointed questions; he's comfortable answering any questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Great bedside manner, didn't try to make money off of us. He really took the time to understand our case and give us options. He didn't push us in a certain direction and was very candid with us about our situation. Very warm, intelligent, and caring.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
Clomid, Menopur and Bravelle for first egg retrieval (until Bravelle pulled from market), then Gonal-F. I actually like the Gonal-F better (much easier to inject with the pen). 3 egg retrievals and embryo biopsies. We didn't get many per cycle that were normal (1-2), so we did 3 rounds and ended up with 4 normals that were frozen. We wanted to do all egg retrievals first before transfers since it was a race against time with my eggs. Estrogen pills and Progesterone for transfer. I actually preferred the shots of progesterone even though they hurt because it was easier and less messy in some ways. I'm not sure about the rationales for everything (can't remember it all now), but the idea was that I didn't have a lot of eggs left that were great, so this maximized the number of good eggs that we got. Our healthy son was born last March.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
You were with a different one each time, so we got to where we requested certain people (like Courtney!). Other nurses were not so great at presenting information.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Office isn't great and you can be on hold when you call a great deal. On the day I was waiting for my first pregnancy beta test, my doctor was out of town. The tech who drew my blood said they would call me soon. SIX hours and several frantic phone calls later, they finally said I was pregnant. I had had a panic attack by then. They are very busy, so expect to wait sometimes and for appointments to take a long time. Get to know the front office person, Angie, for better help.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
$60,000 total for 3 egg retrievals and 1 transfer.
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
We told him about a friend of ours who transferred two and ended up with triplets (one split) and he said that he tries to avoid transferring multiple embryos these days because the testing is so much better and because it presents fewer risks to the mother to have only one.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
- Failed to call with results
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10
10
Age
30 - 33
Treated
2011 - 2014
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Buyalos did every single ultrasound for every cycle I did. He takes a very hands on approach in his care. As busy as they are, he still really knows his patients and would remember things that I would never expect such a busy doctor to remember... I'm so happy Dr. Buyalos was my doctor. He always made me feel comfortable. He called me personally to discuss things, and made me feel like I wasn't "just a number."
The clinic [Fertility & Surgical Associates of California] is not a "factory" as I've heard other clinics be described. In a strange way, I felt like it was incredibly homey. From Angie at the front desk to the billing coordinator, to the nurses drawing labs, to the nurses managing the cycle and of course, my doctor Dr. Buyalos, everyone was just nice and very on top of things. I was in a bind once and needed a prescription called into a pharmacy immediately.
Age
30 - 33
Treated
2011 - 2014
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Consultant
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
I'm so happy Dr. Buyalos was my doctor. He always made me feel comfortable. He called me personally to discuss things, and made me feel like I wasn't "just a number."
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Nothing I can think of.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos did every ulrasound. He took the time to discuss everything. He called to follow up. He went above and beyond to make me feel like I was under the best care possible.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California. (Assigned nurse: Arlene)
She was on top of everything. She went the extra mile for me whenever there was something she could do to help. I worked most closely with his nurses Terry and Arlene. I just adore them both.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
They were a breeze to schedule with. I came in sometimes as early as 7:45 or even 7:30 for ultrasounds so I could be at work by 9am. Dr. Buyalos did every single ultrasound for every cycle I did. He takes a very hands on approach in his care. As busy as they are, he still really knows his patients and would remember things that I would never expect such a busy doctor to remember. I worked most closely with his nurses Terry and Arlene. I just adore them both. The clinic is not a "factory" as I've heard other clinics be described. In a strange way, I felt like it was incredibly homey. From Angie at the front desk to the billing coordinator, to the nurses drawing labs, to the nurses managing the cycle and of course, my doctor Dr. Buyalos, everyone was just nice and very on top of things. I was in a bind once and needed a prescription called into a pharmacy immediately. The office was closed for lunch and my nurse still got my email and made it happen. When my transfers were successful, the nurses called me with the good news and Dr. Buyalos called me personally afterwards to offer me his congratulations. I had a million questions and emailed and called more than I felt comfortable but not once did any of the staff make me feel like I was a nuisance. We are forever grateful not only for our two miracles but also for the experience we had with them that helped bring them to us.
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10
10
Age
43 - 50
Treated
2005 - 2012
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
4 IUI, 3 IVF, Donor Eggs, Surrogacy
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Buyalos was kind, considerate. He listened and made time to listen to me and answer all of my questions completely. ... I had high FSH since I was in my late 20s. Many REs will not want to work with patients who have this diagnosis. ... Because Dr. Buyalos allowed me the chance to try with my own eggs and then to see that I had the same outcome with donor eggs made my decision to move to a surrogate easier.
The office I went to was in Thousand Oaks [Fertility & Surgical Associates]. The office was very clean and nice. Parking was easy. The drive was very far for me (from mid-Los Angeles), but I made it work. The embryologist was also very good and seemed to me to be top-notch. ... My nurse coordinator was efficient and explained everything in detail. ... At the time (2009), Dr. Buyalos preferred to transfer multiple embryos because statistically that would give us the best chance of a good outcome.
Age
43 - 50
Treated
2005 - 2012
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, South Asian, Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Writer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
8th of 8 Docs
Treatment
4 IUI, 3 IVF, Donor Eggs, Surrogacy
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
I had many experiences with many reproductive endocrinologists before I met Dr. Buyalos. He came highly recommended. He was kind and straightforward without be cruel. He is very good at explaining everything and answering all questions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Have a list of questions ready when you see him and take notes and/or ask him if you may record your session with him.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos was kind, considerate. He listened and made time to listen to me and answer all of my questions completely.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
I had high FSH since I was in my late 20s. Many REs will not want to work with patients who have this diagnosis. I went to see Dr. Check in New Jersey. I was monitored at home in Los Angeles using Dr. Check's protocol for women with high FSH by Dr. Buyalos. I became pregnant many times but had miscarriages always at about week 6. Dr. Buyalos could find no clinical reason why. I also had the same outcome with transferred embryos. Because Dr. Buyalos allowed me the chance to try with my own eggs and then to see that I had the same outcome with donor eggs made my decision to move to a surrogate easier.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
My nurse coordinator was efficient and explained everything in detail.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
The office I went to was in Thousand Oaks. The office was very clean and nice. Parking was easy. The drive was very far for me (from mid-Los Angeles), but I made it work. The embryologist was also very good and seemed to me to be top-notch.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
I don't recall the costs, but I do remember that his costs and the costs at his clinic were lower than those at other reproductive endocrinologists' offices I saw in and near Los Angeles.
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
At the time (2009), Dr. Buyalos preferred to transfer multiple embryos because statistically that would give us the best chance of a good outcome. Our surrogate did become pregnant with twins on the first try. They were born at 36 weeks and were born healthy without requiring NICU time.
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10
10
Age
35 - 38
Treated
2008 - 2011
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
5 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Anovulation
10
10
I was extremely pleased with my experience and with his treatment. I saw him at every visit and was able to get in touch with him after hours on one occasion early in my pregnancy, when I was experiencing some issues and was very worried...When I had my miscarriage, Dr Buyulos spent a lot of time answering all of my questions and reassuring me that I still had every reason to believe that I would get the outcome I was hoping for. When I was undergoing treatment with him, I lived two hours away and it was well worth all of the driving back and forth to have a doctor that I could trust to be honest and forthright.
Do whatever you need to do to use Dr Buyalos for your fertility treatment. When I was undergoing treatment with him, I lived two hours away and it was well worth all of the driving back and forth to have a doctor that I could trust to be honest and forthright...Everyone at Fertility & Surgical Associates was very compassionate and kind. When I had my miscarriage, Dr Buyulos spent a lot of time answering all of my questions and reassuring me that I still had every reason to believe that I would get the outcome I was hoping for. Even after having my twins, I have still been able to call Dr Buyulos on several occasions to get follow up information.
Age
35 - 38
Treated
2008 - 2011
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, Latino
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Anovulation
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
I was extremely pleased with my experience and with his treatment. I saw him at every visit and was able to get in touch with him after hours on one occasion early in my pregnancy, when I was experiencing some issues and was very worried. He explained what he thought the issue was and put my mind somewhat at ease until I was able to go in for an office visit (I was out of town at the time, which made the situation even more difficult). Just as he had predicted, there was no major problem with the pregnancy and I went on to deliver twins.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Do whatever you need to do to use Dr Buyalos for your fertility treatment. When I was undergoing treatment with him, I lived two hours away and it was well worth all of the driving back and forth to have a doctor that I could trust to be honest and forthright.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Everyone at Fertility & Surgical Associates was very compassionate and kind. When I had my miscarriage, Dr Buyulos spent a lot of time answering all of my questions and reassuring me that I still had every reason to believe that I would get the outcome I was hoping for. Even after having my twins, I have still been able to call Dr Buyulos on several occasions to get follow up information.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
They are there seven days a week and all blood work and ultrasounds are done in house. All of the nursing staff I dealt with were RNs and had considerable knowledge and experience.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
The cost was high because my insurance did not cover much of the treatment, but I don't think fees were higher than usual or customary. Dr Buyalos and his staff made every effort to help me find ways to minimize or defray costs, where possible. For example, they would let me know about any programs being offered by one of the drug manufacturers.
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9
9
Age
32
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
9
9
Dr Buyalos is compassionate and thorough and takes the time needed to explain everything involved in treatment. Although we are still in the process of receiving the results we want, we continue to only want to do treatment with Dr B... Although I have not exhibited any fertility issues, we maximized our time and money by adding the ovarian stimulation. We did not get pregnant in the 3 IUI's we did with Dr B. My husband was diagnosed with a varicocele and instead of pursuing more treatment, we decided to get his varicocele repaired since it was covered by insurance.
Every nurse we worked with [at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California] was compassionate and answered all my questions, encouraged me to relax and suggested safe ways for me to do so while in treatment...I paid approximately $1k per IUI...The clinic is definitely a well oiled machine; there is heavy staffing even on weekends and response time was always really good. The answering service was also great and call-backs were done so in a timely manner
Age
32
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Accountant
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
9
9
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr Buyalos is compassionate and thorough and takes the time needed to explain everything involved in treatment. Although we are still in the process of receiving the results we want, we continue to only want to do treatment with Dr B
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Advocate for yourself and ask a lot of questions
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Questions were answered and calls were returned promptly, the nurses answered all my questions in great detail and I never felt rushed in any of my appointments
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
Dr Buyalos had me prepare for IUI by taking Clomid, Menopur injections and a trigger shot. Then after IUI I took progesterone. One of my cycles I had to add in Estrace due to thin lining. Although I have not exhibited any fertility issues, we maximized our time and money by adding the ovarian stimulation. We did not get pregnant in the 3 IUI's we did with Dr B. My husband was diagnosed with a varicocele and instead of pursuing more treatment, we decided to get his varicocele repaired since it was covered by insurance.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California. (Assigned nurse: Hilary)
Every nurse we worked with was compassionate and answered all my questions, encouraged me to relax and suggested safe ways for me to do so while in treatment
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
The clinic is definitely a well oiled machine; there is heavy staffing even on weekends and response time was always really good. The answering service was also great and call-backs were done so in a timely manner
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
I paid approximately $1k per IUI
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
n/a
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10
10
Age
39
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Uterine Fibroids
10
10
Dr. Buyalos is the most wonderful caring man. He was the first fertility doctor to do an MRI on my pelvis finding a huge fibroid containing my entire uterine cavity. He said I had that fibroid for years and no other doctor would do an MRI.... The first protocol was that Buyalos said that my eggs are 10 years younger than me. But he wanted to an MRI on my pelvis and I had surgery by Buyalos on June 29th to remove a 3lb fibroid
There is absolutely no weakness in getting an appointment right away. This clinic [Fertility & Surgical Assoc of CA] is well known in the area for the best at getting women pregnant. They have a lab on site everything transfer is done on site.... The nurses are kind cute and they offer you Gatorade. Each nurse i had was gentle and treated me like a human. They got in quick and effortlessly.... they treat you like your their own family.... I owe $575 right now and the first round of IVF is $9500
Age
39
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European, Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Uterine Fibroids
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos is. Known around the area to get women pregnant. The nurses are kind cute and they offer you Gatorade. Each nurse i had was gentle and treated me like a human. They got in quick and effortlessly.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos will figure the real reason your not getting pregnant the first time you see him. He made me get an MRI on my pelvis and low and behold no baby could grow in there. He’s very well known in our community for getting women pregnant.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos is the most wonderful caring man. He was the first fertility doctor to do an MRI on my pelvis finding a huge fibroid containing my entire uterine cavity. He said I had that fibroid for years and no other doctor would do an MRI.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
The first protocol was that Buyalos said that my eggs are 10 years younger than me. But he wanted to an MRI on my pelvis and I had surgery by Buyalos on June 29th to remove a 3lb fibroid
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California. (Assigned nurse: Melinda)
They all have strengths. And they are all attractive too which doesn’t hurt. But they treat you like your their own family.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
There is absolutely no weakness in getting an appointment right away. This clinic is well known in the area for the best at getting women pregnant. They have a lab on site everything transfer is done on site.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
I owe $575 right now and the first round of IVF is $9500
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Prefer one embryo at a time
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10
10
Age
41
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
I think he [Dr. Buyalos] is experienced and extremely professional...Dr. B is very polite and patient to me, and explained every concerns and questions I've raised in detail. He always make me feel relaxed...After consulting Dr. B, I felt Dr. B is very experienced and explained me the process that I would do even if I had former experience. He made every efforts to help me. I think he is experienced and extremely professional. I saw the difference of my experience! It is amazing. With Dr. B's treatment, I had 35 eggs and 7 normal embryos, including 4 A grade and 3 B grade embryo! I really appreciate Dr. B!...
[Fert & Surg Asso of CA - Enc staff is] very nice and patient...Strengths: professional Doctors ...
Age
41
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
East Asian
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Business Executive
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
According to my experience, I did my first cycle in other clinic and my result was very bad. I have PCOS. The first cycle that I did in other clinic resulted in 25 eggs and 4 embryos, but only 1 C-grade normal embryo. I don't want to use that embryo. Then I found FSAC through online searching. After consulting Dr. B, I felt Dr. B is very experienced and explained me the process that I would do even if I had former experience. He made every efforts to help me. I think he is experienced and extremely professional. I saw the difference of my experience! It is amazing. With Dr. B's treatment, I had 35 eggs and 7 normal embryos, including 4 A grade and 3 B grade embryo! I really appreciate Dr. B!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Trust him and take his advice.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. B is very polite and patient to me, and explained every concerns and questions I've raised in detail. He always make me feel relaxed.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
I first use the birth control pills, and gonal-F,menupur omnitriop, cetrotide I rember. Then it is egg retrieval. I retrieved 35 eggs. and 7 embryo. Later I used birth control, estrace, doxy both my husband and me, endometrin for the embryo transfer. Dr. B advised to put just 1 embryo and I just pregnant!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California. (Assigned nurse: Heather)
very nice and patient
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Strengths: professional Doctors
Weakness: a little bit far away
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
more than 20K
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10
10
Age
31 - 34
Treated
2014 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
10
Very kind and compassionate. I recommend him to anyone. Gave very thorough info. He explained our 'issues' in detail and didn't allow us to leave until we fully udnsersyood and had no more questions...I had 2 ivf cycles. First was a successf, 2nd was not. Clomid was on first and injections for estrogen and progesterone. 2nd was progesterone suppositories and oral meds for estrogen
Very thorough and friendly, clean environment [at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California]. They always remember me when I come in and I really like that. Not a fan of the lady that checks us out at the end. I don't know her name but she isn't friendly...I believe overall round 1 was about $20,000 and round 2 was about $7,000. Both round we paid cash as our insurance covers zero for ivf...Appointments were usually on time. I had a few times they needed to reschedule but overall it was perfectly ok. My clinic was actually the Thousand Oaks office but it didn't give me that option.
Age
31 - 34
Treated
2014 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Very kind and compassionate. I recommend him to anyone. Gave very thorough info. He explained our 'issues' in detail and didn't allow us to leave until we fully udnsersyood and had no more questions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Have questions ready
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
He cared deeply for helping us 'get a family'
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
I had 2 ivf cycles. First was a successf, 2nd was not. Clomid was on first and injections for estrogen and progesterone.
2nd was progesterone suppositories and oral meds for estrogen
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Very helpful and kind. Always respectful of my time.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Very thorough and friendly, clean environment. They always remember me when I come in and I really like that.
Not a fan of the lady that checks us out at the end. I don't know her name but she isn't friendly.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Appointments were usually on time. I had a few times they needed to reschedule but overall it was perfectly ok.
My clinic was actually the Thousand Oaks office but it didn't give me that option.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
I believe overall round 1 was about $20,000 and round 2 was about $7,000. Both round we paid cash as our insurance covers zero for ivf
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
He was fine with us transferring 2 each time
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10
10
Age
29 - 33
Treated
2013 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
After our initial consultation I had restored confidence in the IVF process. I saw Dr B [Dr. Rick Buyalos] at every appointment, he performed every ultrasound and was extremely warm and compassionate every step of the way. He included my husband in on everything, remembered our names after our first visit, which really made me feel welcome. He's an amazing doctor and just really takes time to be there for each of his patients.
The only problem I had was with staff [at Fertility & Surgical Associates was] returning my phone calls. If I didn't hear back I would call again. A little frustrating but I get it, this clinic is busy...Dr B would call me personally to talk to me about my cycle. After my first failed transfer with him he was so encouraging and positive. I've never had a doctor take as much time as he has on me.
Age
29 - 33
Treated
2013 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
—
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr B has been amazing throughout our IVF journey. I was unsuccessful 3 times with another doctor and wasn't feeling very confident when I walked into his office. After our initial consultation I had restored confidence in the IVF process. I saw Dr B at every appointment, he performed every ultrasound and was extremely warm and compassionate every step of the way. He included my husband in on everything, remembered our names after our first visit, which really made me feel welcome. He's an amazing doctor and just really takes time to be there for each of his patients.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
If you aren't clear on something he said, speak up. He is more than happy to go over whatever it is you are not clear on.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr B would call me personally to talk to me about my cycle. After my first failed transfer with him he was so encouraging and positive. I've never had a doctor take as much time as he has on me.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California. (Assigned nurse: Teri)
Teri is no longer with this clinic but was an amazing support during our first 2 cycles at this office.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
The only problem I had was with staff returning my phone calls. If I didn't hear back I would call again. A little frustrating but I get it, this clinic is busy.
Describe Rick Buyalos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Dr B gave us the option to transfer 1 or 2 embryo's. He gave us the risks and benefits on all the possible outcomes.
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10
10
Age
33 - 40
Treated
2009 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, PCOS
10
10
He [Dr. Buyalos] was very understanding and worked hard on our behalf. He was careful to identify our individual and unique circumstances and address them. He always called himself if there was a concern rather than having a nurse call. He remembered details of my case two years later...We did PGD due to a genetic condition...Dr. Buyalos treated me like a human but other staff [at Fert & Surg Asso] sometimes made me feel more like a number.
The clinic [Fert & Surg Asso of CA] is very busy but it is well organized and responsive to your needs. At times you need to be an advocate for yourself and request to see the doctor or speak to him...I worked with two different nursing teams. The first team in 2010 was more engaging, seemed more interested in my wellbeing and were more compassionate and interested in my care. At times it did feel like I was just a number both times but more so the second time around in 2016.
Age
33 - 40
Treated
2009 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
He was very understanding and worked hard on our behalf. He was careful to identify our individual and unique circumstances and address them. He always called himself if there was a concern rather than having a nurse call. He remembered details of my case two years later.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Make sure to ask all of your questions as he will respond if he knows there are concerns.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr. Buyalos treated me like a human but other staff sometimes made me feel more like a number.
Describe the protocols Rick Buyalos used in your cycles at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California and their degree of success.
We did PGD due to a genetic condition and PGS our second cycle due to a miscarriage likely due to chromosomal abnormalities.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
I worked with two different nursing teams. The first team in 2010 was more engaging, seemed more interested in my wellbeing and were more compassionate and interested in my care. At times it did feel like I was just a number both times but more so the second time around in 2016.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
The clinic is very busy but it is well organized and responsive to your needs. At times you need to be an advocate for yourself and request to see the doctor or speak to him.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
It was around 15,000 with treatment PGD but that was several years ago.
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10
10
Age
33 - 35
Treated
2014 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
Dr Buyalos is professional, informative, and compassionate. I felt like he truly felt my pain with setbacks and joy during successes. He called me during his family vacations to make sure I knew what was happening and came in on his days off to check on me.... Dr buyalos is very personable and I always felt like he really cared about me and helping me start a family
Fertility and surgical had a very Organized, clean, friendly, and efficient clinic. I never felt like my time was being wasted waiting for my appointment and they were always willing to work with my travel and time constraints.... Most all of the nurses we worked with were very knowledgeable.... If you have any concerns no matter how big or small, don’t be afraid to bring them up.
Age
33 - 35
Treated
2014 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
South Asian
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr Buyalos is professional, informative, and compassionate. I felt like he truly felt my pain with setbacks and joy during successes. He called me during his family vacations to make sure I knew what was happening and came in on his days off to check on me.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
If you have any concerns no matter how big or small, don’t be afraid to bring them up.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rick Buyalos at Fertility & Surgical Associates of California?
Dr buyalos is very personable and I always felt like he really cared about me and helping me start a family
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Most all of the nurses we worked with were very knowledgeable.
Describe your experience with Fertility & Surgical Associates of California.
Fertility and surgical had a very Organized, clean, friendly, and efficient clinic. I never felt like my time was being wasted waiting for my appointment and they were always willing to work with my travel and time constraints.
- Read less