General Surgeons of Houston

Dr. Don Quast was my surgeon for having my gall bladder removed last week.
As this was my first surgery, I was pretty terrified and didn’t know what to expect. When I met Dr. Quast, I was a little concerned about his age (he is 83), but decided to give him a chance, and I am so glad that I did!
Dr. Quast is not only incredibly competent in his field and experienced, he is one of the kindest, most compassionate men I have ever met. If I could talk him into being my grandfather, I would surely do so! He gently explained what was wrong with my gall bladder and why it was important to have it removed. Then he explained how the surgery works and what to expect. The whole time, he kept his voice soft, and kept at least one hand in contact with my shoulder or arm, which just felt so comforting. We scheduled my surgery for the next week at The Woman’s Hospital of Texas.
On the day of my surgery, Dr. Quast visited with me in the hospital room, sat on my bed, put his hand on my leg and explained again what was going to happen, slowly and calmly. He then took my hand, looked me straight in the eye, and said, «Don’t worry. I am going to be extremely careful with you.» I am certain that his eyes welled up a little bit when he said it. Then he gave me a hug and went to get ready for surgery.
The day after my surgery, he came by to check my incisions. Everything looked good, and he continued with his incredible bedside manner, truly unusual in this day and age of cold, aloof surgeons and even regular doctors. I was supposed to be released that day, but due to having a low platelet count he asked me, «Would you do an old man a favor and stay for an extra day? I just want to make sure that you are OK.» Of course I acquiesced.
That extra day happened to be Christmas Eve, and Dr. Quast came again to examine me that morning. He said he thought I was fine to go home, and told me how to care for myself. He also said to call him for any reason, even if it was just a little question (meaning over Christmas!).
I went for a follow-​up yesterday, and everything is healing wonderfully. When Dr. Quast saw me, he gave me a hug and asked how I was doing. He gently examined my abdomen and then had me do a couple of tests to check for a hernia. So far so good!
I cannot recommend Dr. Quast highly enough. I feel so lucky that I stumbled across him. He is an angel (and I am not even religious). I don’t know for how long he will continue to practice, but if you get the honor of being treated by him, please do so. He has restored my faith in the medical community.