Dr. Robert James Tibesar, MD

Our son was born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate. Immediately after our 20 week ultrasosund, we knew we needed to find the best doctor and surgeon in our area. My husband is a doctor, so naturally we/he did a lot of research and met with different professionals. We had heard good things about Children Minneapolis, and Dr. Robert Tibesar, but eventually made the decision that were going to use a doctor at Gillette Childrens. As a parent, this is a very scary thing to go through and there is no confirmation you are choosing the right doctor for your child. After our sweet son was born (at Abbott) we called our chosen doctor at Gillette's to come over and meet his new patient. To our surprise, the Children's team showed up immediately, and Dr. Robert Tibesar himself (as well as his phenomenal team) came to see and check on our sweet baby each day. After many days passed, we needed to confirm our doctor for procedures that were needed after birth. Our Gillette doctor still… had not been over to meet his new patient. We went down to the hospital cafeteria (where we spent a lot of time in the first few weeks as our son came early) and were feeling anxious and nervous about what to do. We pulled a "1-2-3" say your Doctors name out loud and both my husband and I had 100% switched our doctor vote to Dr. Robert Tibesar. We were so blown away by his patient care and just got the best feeling; we have NEVER regretted our decision. He is very professional, yet compassionate letting you have a voice in your childs long term care plan. I was very worried as a mom not knowing what to expect with a cleft child, and he has made our road so easy and truly worry free! We were blown away after our son had his first surgery (cleft lip repair). He looked SO good; everyone comments on how great his repair looks. And beside everything above, we come to learn that Dr. Tibesar, has multiple cleft children of his very own to love and care for at home. He is just wonderful. I have a good friend who also has a cleft baby, and when we discuss our journeys, she always says she is very envious of our doctor. We truly feel blessed that God directed us his way! For all new parents to a cleft baby, do not worry. If you choose Dr. Tibesar you will be in the BEST hands.

My wife took our two sons to an appointment with this doctor. Our younger son has not been able to swallow food very well and so naturally we have been worried for a while. She also brought our older son (2 1/2 years old) with her because we could not find a sitter. He is currently going through leukemia treatment but was just along for the ride. When she told the doctor this his response was: - Oh so that's whats up with the hair-do. My son is fighting for his life and this doctor has the audacity to make fun of him. I'm beyond angry and disappointed.

We've had great experiences with Dr Tibesar and surgeries have all gone well.