R.J. "Chip" Splinter, MD, FACS
Medical Director

Patient Comments

To read a poem about Dr. Splinter, click here.

You can also see our new Personal Stories section.


  Hi Doctor, I want to tell you a fast story:

  First, I need to remind you that I am 73 years old.

  I had a bad auto accident in August in which my car was a mess, but I came out of it perfectly okay.

  Just after the accident, I lay in the street on my back while the paramedics prepared to place me on a board and tape me down for my trip in the ambulance to the emergency room; they needed to be sure I was all right.

  One paramedic was gazing down at me while talking on the phone. I looked up at him and he looked down at me, a phone pressed to his ear.

  He said: "Oh...I'd guess 50's, early 60's."

  I was thrilled.

  You do good work, Doc...Thanks!!

  Your grateful patient...S

    -age 73, female, S


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  I felt comfortable and an immediate sense of trust upon meeting and speaking to Dr. Splinter, and he was highly recommended to my be a good friend.

    -age 52, female, L, Blepharoplasty


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  Seen other patients' results and heard them speak highly of Dr. Splinter!

    -age 46, female, J, Blepharoplasty


Would you recommend us to your family and friends if they needed care?

  I have been so pleased with the work done, the doctor is great, the staff is so friendly and I love the look of the office.

    -age 51, female, S, Abdominoplasty


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  I chose Dr. Splinter because he has a very charming personality and he put all my fears at ease.

    -age 40, female, A, Rhinoplasty


Are there any comments to assist us in providing better care?

  None- keep up the Great Work!!! I love my new nose. Thank you.

    -age 40, female, A, Rhinoplasty


  Dr. Splinter,

  Thank you for re-touching my BOTOX® free of charge. I really appreciate your generosity. I admire your personal care for your patients and you have such a warm heart. I always leave your office feeling happy and beautiful! I look forward to seeing you again in a few months.
Thank you again!
P.S. Your staff is the best!!

    -age 27, female, K


  Jennifer, Julie, Arlene are wonderful!! Dale too!! What a wonderful, friendly, knowledgable staff :-) Thanks!

    -age 33, female, Breast Augmentation


  My experience at La Mesa Medical and Surgical Center was excellent from start to finish. The office personnel, nursing staff, and of course, Dr Splinter, answered all my questions and put me at ease. The reading material I was given helped to keep my informed and provided extra hints that I believe helped contribute to my successful recovery. I could not be more pleased with the results. Thank you, Dr. Splinter and La Mesa Surgical Center team! Thank you!

    -age 51, female, Abdominoplasty


Any comment to assist us in providing better care?

  None, the entire staff is amazing there. For over 8 years, I have received the same quality of care & kindness. Anytime I am asked about surgery, I immediately give Dr. Splinter's name and phone number. Thank you!

    -age 38, female, Abdominoplasty


Dr. Splinter & Staff,

  I can not begin to tell you how happy I am!! My "new nose" is obsolutely adorable; it fits my face perfectly and I've never felt so self-confident in my life before. I was astonished at the almost non-existing bruises (a little yellow around my eyes was it!), the zero pain and minimal discomfort I experienced during my recovery. Dale's affirmation "you're in good hands with Dr. Splinter..." to make me feel better was an understatement.
Dr. Splinter is the best!

Thank you all so very much!!
Sincerly, M

    -M.H. age 29, female, rhinoplasty


  Dr. Splinter was recommended to be by my husband and a coworker of mine. I was extremely pleased with my recovery time (only 4 days) and complete healing and dissolving of my breast lift stitches (2 and a half weeks!). I had virtually no pain (only needed Tylenol for 3 days). It was great and I'm very please with the result.

    -age 31, female, Breast Lift


  I heard about Dr. splinter from my friend. After the consultation, I was sold! Great credentials and recommendations! I was very comfortable and happy with your entire office. Thank you, you are in the best!


  Dr. splinter was highly recommended by my friend. My friend's assurances and Dr. splinter explanation gave me courage to seek the answers and solutions to an embarrassing problem that I had given up hope of ever solving. I was very pleased to find, in him, a doctor who actually knew what he was doing. He gave me hope, and he solved my problem. I am very pleased with Dr. splinter, and everyone in your office.


  Dr. Splinter,

  Thank you for your skilled hands. Artistic talent and for your trained eye. I am ecstatis with the results of my surgery! Thanks Again!

    -age 27, female, CB


  You folks all do great work. Nice friendly attitude and pleasant environment.


  I love you guys! You are a great team adn you seem to be having fun doing it too! Isn't that what life's all about. Keep up the good work and don't retire before I have my eyes done.


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  He made me feel safe & comfortable & confident in his ability to provide excellent care with my health & wellness.

    -age 61, female, Face Lift, SH


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  I choose Doctor Splinter because my aunt, uncles, and cousins all told me I would love the results from him.

Any comments to assist us in providing better care?

  None. You guys were great and I have never in my life been happier with myself! Thank you sooo much!

    -age 27, female, Rhinoplasty, JA


  I wanted a doctor that I felt completely comfortable with and was very honest and straight forward about the procedure. Dr. Splinter went above and beyond this and I'm extremely happy with the results.

    -age 55, Face Lift, JD



Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  He was recommended to me, and when I went in everybody was friendly to me! All the staff were helpful in answering any questions that I had. Dr. Splinter made sure I felt comfortable with every part of the visits.

    -age 31, female, Breast Augmentation


  He's a caring man who seems to be more interested in his patients than making the money.

    -age 25, female, Beast Lift, SH


  I choose Dr. Splinter because he has his own facilities, his bed side manner was very reassuring, he was honest, and realistic about my transformation.

    -age 41, female, abdominoplasty, AS


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  His personality, personal recommendation, and he is affordable.


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  I've been to Dr. Splinter before for other procedures. I love his technique and his personality. Most of all, I love how all the surgeries turned out. Everything is perfect.


  A painless, inexpensive easy procedure was done in the comfortable and caring OR of Dr. Splinter. My procedure was done on Thursday at 1:00pm and I was back to work on Monday. How easy could that be. Not only has this taken 10 years off my age, my spirits have been uplifted as well as my face. Dr. Splinter is an Artist. I would recommend anyone to go to him."

    -age 47, female, eyelid lift



Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  The website provided thorough information including general prices, which most do not, and I don't like that. I wanted a doctor with excellent experience and someone I would feel comfortable with - by searching the website and then meeting with Dr. Splinter, I found both.


  I sure want to thank you and your entire staff for the way you took care of me... You were extraordinarily understanding, caring, compassionate, patient, welcoming, and all of that is very much appreciated and fully acknowledged. Hope all is well with everyone.

  Thanks so much!!

    -D.S. age 53, male, rhinoplasty, chin augmentation, face-neck lift


  Thank You! What you and your staff have done for me has been so amazing!  You are a wonderful doctor! You always make me feel so important. Thanks!

    -S.B. age 26,female, breast augmentation


  First my husband and I did our research for the best cosmetic surgeon for my precious life. We found Dr. Splinter the best candidate. we reviewed and filed clearance check for his knowledge and experiences. We found it outstanding before we made our first consult meeting. We chose him for his expertise- confident, knowledgeable, with many years of experience. The timing and price was right. I am happy with the result and high quality of care that Dr. Splinter and the staff provided. Keep up the good work. Many Thanks!


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  He is a very caring man who informs his patients well. He's a real person!

    -D.B age 43, female, eyelid lift, breast augmentation


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter

  He operated on my husband... he did an excellent job with a short recovery time. I felt very comfortable having him do my liposuction procedure. My experience was very comfortable. His surgical nurses are so pleasant and really make you feel very assured and safe that everything is the way it should be. His receptionist Dale is very knowledgeable and just a doll to talk to. I am very pleased with both Dr. Splinter and his entire staff!

    -E.T. age 57, female, liposculpture


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  I felt very comfortable with him. He is a people person. Has a lot of experience. His website was very inviting and I felt comfortable face to face with him

    -C.G. age 28, female, breast augmentation


  Your staff was very friendly and willing to help.  It made me feel welcome when the staff actually remembered who I was each visit.



Dr. Splinter & Staff,

  I want to thank you all for how happy you have made my daughter. You were thoughtful and helpful and you cared. I tell everyone how I felt that you didn't act nor treat her as a business but a person. [My daughter] is very important to me, you treated her like she is important to you also. She looks beautiful!!! You truly are wonderful professionals and people. Truly!

    -K.W. age 20, female, rhinoplasty


  Your entire staff was very compassionate and supportive from beginning to end. Thank you for taking such good care of me. You all are really wonderful.


  Everyone is wonderful & caring. I'm sorry I didn't do this sooner!


  Teri, Dale, and Dr. Splinter, you all are the best. This operation was easy and convenient for me and I have never been happier with the services you gave me. Thanks.

    -S.S age 29, female, otoplasty


Any comment to assist us in providing better care?

   NONE - I EXPECTED THE BEST AND RECEIVED THE BEST



Dear Dr. Splinter & Everyone,

  Thank you very much for all the help and support you've given me with the "tummy tuck" & liposuction - I am very pleased with the results & feel confident enough now to wear a bathing suit, shorts, more for fitting clothes in general. I'm starting to swim & run again, and dance after many years and I am much more comfortable with myself. I know things will get better and better, as I continue to finish healing and have the courage to do things and take better care of myself.

    -E.H. age 49, female, abdominoplasty, liposuction


  Everyone was so nice! I had the best care in every way. I traveled a considerable distance because of my confidence in Dr. Splinter.

    -A.S. age 49, face/neck lift, upper and lower blepharoplasty


  "Coming to see you, Dr. Splinter, is one of the best decisions I have made. I especially liked that you offered me several choices to solve my problems. There were absolutely no hassles involved with the surgery, and I was even furnished with post-op medications. Everybody, and I mean everybody, from receptionist to the OR and recovery staff, was so helpful and so nice. Very professional! You are the best"

    -V.F. 31 y/o female, breast augmentation


  Dr. Splinter, I recommend you to all my friends and give out your cards. (recommendations): Friday surgeries so patients have weekend to recover, (you could take Monday's off) so as to give you full weekend. Doc gave me his pager # and saw me for follow up when office was closed- for my convenience.

    -V.K.W. female 56 y/o


  Dr. Splinter, I'll bet I am your most satisfied patient ever - or at least in the top 10. If you'd ever like to give my name to a prospective patient who might like another's opinion, I'm your "man". this must be what they mean when they say "Life begins at 50" --- When Dr. Splinter is your doctor

    -K.L. age 52, female, rhinoplasty



Dear Dr. Splinter

   I can't thank you enough for the beautiful work you did. I never had a minutes pain. I had no reservations whatsoever knowing I was in good hands. But I am happier than I imagined.

    Again, Thank You

    -T. Q. age 52, breast augmentation


  Dr. Splinter, I can't begin to express my enthusiasm and appreciation for my new and improved chin. You did a wonderful job! Your staff extended warmth, comfort and a sincere interest in me, which only encouraged my decision.

    -R.K. age 45, female, chin augmentation


  Very accommodating, friendly and warm staff and doctor - much appreciated!

    -D.P. -- age 57, female, face lift and chin implant


How can we improve our services?

  None, all of you guys are doing great! You always made me feel loved.

  Thank you very much


  Happily satisfied! Thanks! Nothing is excellent. However, you all have earned a "very good" grade!

    -W.D. age 66,  male, face lift


  Staff, while always professional was always welcoming and friendly, I feel welcomed, in competent hands - clear explanations of procedures - honest discussion of probable outcomes - good blend of personalities

    -B.M. age 56, female, face lift, upper and lower eyelids, breast reduction, liposculpture of thighs


  The surgical staff nurses, anesthesiologist, were very, very, very nice. I felt very comfortable at the time of the procedure. I am very pleased with the results of my surgery. Thank you,

    -H.P. age 28, female, breast augmentation


  Dr. Splinter, I've never been treated so well at any medical facility. Thank you all for such a friendly service. Especially, Dr. Splinter for all of his compassion and ability to make me feel comfortable.

    -S.N. age 47, female, face lift and upper and lower eyelids



Dale, Michelle & Dr. Chip...

  I can't Thank-You! enough for everything you've done for me! You all are so caring and you helped me to a better life.

    -C.C. age 45, breast augmentation and blepharoplasty


  Better care is unimaginable! Everyone was so wonderful. Every doctor should be as gentle and kind as Dr. Splinter. He has made this a great experience. All doctors should have the great staff as well. Thank you all for making this a decision I don't in the least regret.

    -K.D. age 32, female, breast augmentation


Would you recommend us to your family and friends if they needed care?

  You'll probably end up seeing the whole family! I love you all. You're just wonderful and Dr. Chip is the sweetest and caring doctor I know. I pay close attention even when I'm unconscious.

    -H.B. age 51, female, face lift and upper eyelids



Dr. Splinter & Staff

  Just a note to give a big thanks for a job well done. I couldn't be happier with my new nose. I finally have a nose that fits my face! (without looking like I had surgery) Everyone, even those who said "don't do it" were thrilled. I will and have recommended this office to several friends. Of course, I'll be back for that under eye chemical peel. Thanks to Dale & Tyler, too.

    -L.C. age 47, female, rhinoplasty


  The back office staff (including nurses) was very professional and helpful. Dr. Splinter is an excellent surgeon. We were impressed that he always made sure we could contact him, if needed, in an emergency during evenings and weekends.

    -S.G. age 30, male, rhinoplasty


How can we improve our services?

  I can't think of a thing. I had excellent, excellent care and everyone cares so much, the doctor and staff - just great!

    -J.B. age 58, female, tummy tuck


  You guys were all great! You made what could have been an uncomfortable experience a very copeable one. I thank you for your pleasantness and professionalism.

    -S.C. age 38, male, nasal surgery


  Dr. Splinter, my experience was incredible! Much better than I could have imagined. Results were excellent. Each and every person I came in contact with made me feel special and cared for. Thanks for all you do!

    -C.H. 51, female, upper and lower eyelids, chin augmentation, face lift



Dr. Splinter & Staff:

  ... I want to say "Thank You" for your excellent services and care and "being there", you've allowed me to feel better about myself and about how I present myself to the world, which is always such a personal thing...

    -M.A. 52, female, breast augmentation and face/neck lift


  Dr. Splinter, I cannot thank you enough for making this the most pleasant medical experience I have had. And I would like to thank your staff members, without the special attention from them it would have been difficult. I felt as if I wasn't going through my procedures completely alone. Thanks-

    -L.P. age 38, female, nose reshaping and chemical peel


Why did you choose Dr. Splinter?

  Experience, Great Website, friendly staff, reasonable prices! Everything is great!


  Dr. Splinter & Staff, I just wanted to thank all of you for helping me from beginning to end with my surgery. It is very reassuring to have such kind and helpful people surround me as well as guide me through this process. Than you, once again, for all you have done.

    -S.C. age 20, female, rhinoplasty


  I appreciate the entire staff, and look forward to continued care. I will recommend you to all my friends & family.

    -J.B. age 56, female, liposuction


  I am really happy with my surgery experience and the results! I appreciate Dr. Splinter's simple, realistic approach and discussion of the procedure and expected results.

    -H.H. age 35, female, liposuction



'Twas the month before Christmas, and what can I say?
I wished that my wrinkles would all go away.
I telephoned Joyce, and Dale, and Dee
To explain what I wished would happen to me
It wasn't exciting to anticipate pain,
But with a doctor named Splinter, anxiety waned.
Historical office, a wife and six kids,
Board Certified? .. Yes.
Go ahead, cut my lids!
With the patient sedated, the scalpel just flew,
That doctor, Chip Splinter, knew just what to do.
The dermis, the muscle, the nerves and fat too
Responded as ordered when Chip gave the cue.
And now as the swelling and bruising subside,
I can say I'm elated to have taken this ride!

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