Santa Cruz Ear Nose & Throat Medical Group & Hearing Aid Center (Santa Cruz Office) 550 Water Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

"BEWARE OF DR. JAMES TENG! I just had a septoplasty procedure on the 21st of February, 2024. It's a relatively straight forward procedure from what I have researched, but the outcome was very disappointing. Dr. James Teng essentially butchered my nose. I've been suffering from a deviated septum since my twenties and at 50 years of age, I was stoked to finally have the opportunity to get it straighten out. What was initially a medical procedure to straighten and open the air passage has now become a cosmetic issue. My nose is still misaligned, asymmetrical and now disfigured. There's no evidence of a septoplasty procedure performed. The incision that was made is that of an open rhinoplasty made at the lower columellar. Post surgery, the columellar was off center as well as misaligned with the philtrum. The incision made is inconsistent with the incisions made for a septoplasty, i.e. Killian and hemitransfixion incisions which are made along the walls of the septum, leaving no external scarring. Dr. James Teng is still a rookie, don't have him operate on you. When I asked about his background, he took offense to it and told me that I could go to San Jose to have the procedure done. It should have been a red flag. Don't make the same mistake. Also, make sure you recored everything, audio or video, when you have any discussions with Dr. Teng. He is not as good as he thinks he is... BEWARE!"

"I recently went to Santa Cruz Ear, Nose and Throat Group, and I couldn't have been more satisfied with the experience. The office itself is clean and roomy, and all the front desk employees were welcoming, efficient, and seemed to be happy. The nurses, Doctor Spilman and audiologist Ruth Kaspar were not only knowledgable and professional, but they were also very supportive and friendly. I went definitely recommend this medical office to anyone looking for specialized medical support."

"Santa Cruz Ear Nose Throat (SCENT) is a great place to go for problems from the neck up. I have seen both Dr.Xiao and Dr.Teng and both are great. Dr. Teng did my septoplasty and it turned out great. Highly recommend this office. Linda Santa Cruz, CA"

"The referral specialist was one of the rudest people I've ever had to deal with when dealing with healthcare/insurance. My experience was so bad that it made me not even want to see the doctor's here, which is unfortunate. I'd go to Sutter or elsewhere."

"Staff was helpful, my appointment began on time. Dr. Spilman performed the treatment I requested successfully and with appreciated humor. I will definitely return to this practice for any future ENT needs."