Testimonials & Reviews
Orthopedic Institute of Santa Barbara
Orthopedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine located in Santa Barbara, CA & Solvang, CA
Orthopedic Institute of Santa Barbara always appreciates feedback from our valued patients. To date, we’re thrilled to have collected 526 reviews with an average rating of 4.94 out of 5 stars. Please read what others are saying about Orthopedic Institute of Santa Barbara below, and as always, we would love to collect your feedback.
CRAIG M.
Submitted 01/14/26
Dr Gallivan is a wonderful person and a top notch orthopedic surgeon. He took the time to access my problem, was clear on all my options, and correctly made the call and fixed my bad hip! Great guy, very personable. His staff was so kind and thoughtful and helpful.
Highly recommend the whole crew for a great outcome. Seriously!!!
KENNETH M.
Submitted 01/14/26
Enjoyed visit with Dr Gallivan
LOIS B.
Submitted 01/13/26
I liked Drs assistant very much courteous helpful and very understanding
I liked Dr G too. Unfortunately he declined to have me as a patient as I smoke currently. I understand as he said he doesn’t want to risk infection or slow healing. All of which I was taken aback by to be honest my fault of course.
What I did feel was that there seemed almost the implication of don’t come back and say you’ve given up smoking for three months because we’ll test you
That although informational seemed to imply I am a liar or a potential liar which if I was why would I be truthful about smoking in the first place?
Anyway having said all of that I’m going to speak to my primary care Dr about help with quitting smoking.
See if I can do it so I can then ask to be a patient of Dr G.As he would be my preferred surgeon without a doubt.
I gave the four star as to be frank I was disappointed . I have very little support in my life currently so I felt rather deflated to face yet another challenge at a time when my cup is full to over flowing. Would I be considered as a patient if I manage to stop smoking all togther ?
PAUL T.
Submitted 01/09/26
Good
CAROL F.
Submitted 01/09/26
From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcoming, capable, and efficient. For such a busy place, everyone was quite relaxed and friendly.
MAUREEN M.
Submitted 01/08/26
Very attentive physician and staff
RODMAN G.
Submitted 01/07/26
Dr Gallivan and his staff are excellent. They are caring, especially competent and provide the best of care. My knee is like new. Recovery from this knee was much easier than my other one which I had done by a different surgeon five years prior. I have absolutely no pain now.
ANITA R.
Submitted 01/07/26
Makes the whole process easy. Care at Cottage is top notch
NICOLA W.
Submitted 01/05/26
It was informative and enlightening.
I have only just met Dr. Gallivan but was thoroughly delighted with his clear assessment of my condition.
Lovely man!
BROOKE D.
Submitted 01/05/26
I’ve been going to Dr. William R. Gallivan
Jr., MD and his Team for Arthritis in both my knees. It has been a great experience! They are so positive, kind and informative! I’m really Thankful I was referred to the Orthopedic Institute
Of Santa Barbara! They have kept me moving and enjoying my life!!
Sincerely,
Brooke Defrehn
ROBERTA H.
Submitted 12/30/25
All good.
MARYANN S.
Submitted 12/23/25
We called on the weekend to say I had reconsidered a recommendation for a procedure. Staff called back Monday morning (Christmas week) and connected us with Dr. Galivan’s PA. A brief conversation with Dr. Galivan that same day and we were on the schedule. Amazing that happened a few days before Christmas. I was impressed.
STEPHANIE C.
Submitted 12/23/25
Dr Gallivan is engaging, knowledgeable, and has a great bedside manner. I have enjoyed my visits as he answers questions honestly and is attentive to the patient needs. Though not excited about surgery, I feel I am in good hands.
SHIRLEY E.
Submitted 12/20/25
Office staff friendly and helpful. Dr Gallivan thorough and listened to my answers regarding my pain and situation.
JEAN J.
Submitted 12/19/25
The staff people are always so friendly and helpful.
And of course, I love Dr. Gallivan. He gave me two new knees when I was in my 80’s. Now I’m in my 90’s and still going strong
Thanks to all of you.
Jean Johns
RHONDA C.
Submitted 12/19/25
Dr Gallivan explained the manipulation procedure and what I needed to do to prepare for it. His explanation put me at ease. I had a very positive conversation with him.
ARTHUR H.
Submitted 11/27/25
It all starts with Karen (Dr. G's wife) in the front office. It's as if she were welcoming you into her own home. When she is not having to devote her entire attention to a patient, she freely engages those in the waiting room with joyous conversation.
The next "standout" is Dillon (Dr. G's assistant). He is very knowledgeable and able to answer many general questions that actually saves some of Dr. G's face time. He is also quick to let you know what needs to be referred to Dr. G.
The entire staff are upbeat and helpful, even if they are only assisting you down the hall, or up on the exam table.
Finely, Dr. G himself...
He enters with a big confident smile that ensures you that your issues will "all" be addressed. I have never felt rushed, or that I didn't have his complete focus. "Any" professional who works with the public (in any field) should "bench mark" this organization. Well done Dr. Galivan!
WILLIAM R.
Submitted 11/26/25
I saw Dr. Gallivan today for my one year anniversary of my reverse shoulder replacement. I have no pain. I have full range of motion and have no complaints. I'm very satisfied with the outcome of the surgery and the care that I have received. Thank you.
THERESA P.
Submitted 11/26/25
Dr. Gallivan, my anesthesiologist, and each of my nurses at Cottege were absolutely amazing! I can not say enough good things about my experience. I was a bit nervous to have total knee replacement surgery and the team of doctors and nurses made it the best possible experience. I am thankful and grateful!
TERESA W.
Submitted 11/24/25
I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Gallivan. He is incredibly knowledgeable and takes the time to explain everything clearly. What stood out most to me was his kindness and honesty—he’s straightforward without ever being dismissive, and you can tell he truly cares about his patients. I felt heard, supported, and confident in the care I received. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a doctor who combines expertise with genuine compassion.