Welcome to GYN LA! We are pleased that you chose us. We are a comprehensive, full-service practice committed to providing quality health care for women of all ages. Our team are highly trained in low risk, high risk, and advanced gynecological treatments and surgeries. The medical team’s largest experience is utilizing robotic surgery for gynecologic conditions. We also specialize in the management of a variety of cancers, including endometrial/uterine cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, pelvic masses, menopause/hormonal replacement therapy, vulvar cancer, vaginal cancer, and uterine sarcoma.
At GYN LA, our goal is to treat our patients with confidence, compassion, and comfort. That’s why we use the latest advances in medicine combined with state-of-the-art techniques, in a friendly and personalized environment. We hold ourselves to a high level of excellence and highest standard of care in each of our practice, including gynecology, gynecology oncology, robotic surgery and preventative women’s health care for the women in our community. You’ll feel the difference in the care we provide, the equipment we use, the incidental services we offer, and the health and safety protocols we follow. We’re here to help you through life’s changes and when you work with our medical team you can rest assured that you’ll be provided with an optimal experience.
Call Now to Schedule
an Appointment
Receive a consultation with one of our specialists for any of your gynecological needs
310-375-8446Attended Medical School at the University of Southern California. He completed an Internship and Residency at the Brigham and Women's Hospital/Massachusetts General Hospital at Harvard Medical School. His fellowship in Gynecologic Oncology was obtained at the University of Miami. Dr. Mirhashemi is a former Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the UCLA School of Medicine, and the University of Miami School of Medicine. He also was the Director of the Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer Genetic Center at the University of Miami School of Medicine.
Dr. Mirhashemi has the largest experience in utilizing robotic surgery for gynecologic conditions West of the Mississippi. Dr. Mirhashemi has published over 60 journal articles, research articles and book chapters relative to women's health. He and his staff are committed to providing a full range of service options to provide the best possible comprehensive care, professional expertise, and individualized attention to each patient seeking optimal health care.
Dr Atamdede was born in Memphis, TN, and during the first 9yrs of life his family moved to several cities in the US and aboard, before finally settling in Milwaukee, WI, which he still calls his “hometown.” He went to high school and then to university in Milwaukee, attending Marquette University for his undergraduate studies. He was then accepted to the Medical College of Wisconsin for his medical school training, which he completed in 1982.
He started his residency in Ob/Gyn at Medical College of Wisconsin/St Mary’s Hospital that year, and during that residency developed his interest in Gynecologic Oncology and advanced pelvic surgery. Following his residency, he was accepted to a fellowship in advanced pelvic and urogynecologic surgery at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, in Cleveland, OH.
Following this fellowship, he took a year off from his training, to come to Los Angeles to join the faculty at UCLA Medical Center, and was assigned to Oliveview Medical Center in Sylmar, CA just as that rebuilt hospital was being reopened after the disastrous damage it sustained in the Sylmar earthquake of 1971. He and the other members on the staff then established the Ob/Gyn program that still exists there caring for the indigent population of the northern Los Angeles County area.
In 1988, he started his Gynecologic Oncology fellowship at the Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago, IL. He completed the fellowship in 1990, and though offered a position in Chicago (and several other institutions), decided to return to Los Angeles and UCLA. He returned to Los Angeles in July of 1990, and took a position on the faculty of UCLA, and was offered a position of Director of Gyn Oncology at Harbor/UCLA Medical Center, in Torrance, CA. During the next 12 years he established HGH/UCLA as a major center for Gyn Oncology care for the indigent population in the “South Bay” area of Los Angeles. He mentored residents, and coauthored numerous papers during this time. At least of the residents he mentored are now well regarded Gyn Oncologists in their own right.
During this time, he also established a growing private practice, initially starting at Torrance Memorial Hospital, in Torrance, CA in 1991, then expanding the Little Company of Mary Hospital, also in Torrance in early 1992. From there, the practice expanded to include most of the hospitals in the “South Bay” area and beyond.
In 1999, He joined the newly formed Gynecologic Oncology Associates group, based in Newport Beach, CA, and became the South Bay branch of this group. As the practice grew, it eventually became clear that maintaining an academic practice and private practice concurrently was not possible; since his interest has always been the direct care of patients, he made the difficult decision to turn over the academic practice to one his younger colleagues, and pursue the private practice full time with GOA in 2004.
Since then, he, and his partner have provided comprehensive gyn oncology and complicated gynecologic services to the South Bay area and adjacent regions. The practice continues to grow, and added a new member, Britanny Brown, NP this past spring. An additional new physician is joining the group this summer to continue the legacy of comprehensive care.
Dr. Morgan Taylor is a native of Anadarko, Oklahoma, and began his undergraduate education at Washington University in St. Louis. He began his medical education at the University of Oklahoma, earning an MD in 2008. Dr. Taylor then joined the medical staff at the University of Tennessee for his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology, where he was honored by the division of Gynecologic Oncology as the most outstanding chief resident. This was followed by a two-year research fellowship in gynecologic cancer at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, funded through his grant with the National Library of Medicine.
Dr. Taylor completed fellowship at the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit in 2018, where he trained with experts in robotic surgery who emphasized a patient-centered model of comprehensive care. While diagnosis and treatment strategies are paramount, Dr. Taylor still believes a patient’s journey should include wellness planning - with a focus on body image, maintaining and regaining function, and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices.
Dr. Taylor is now joining the practice of Drs. Mirhashemi and Atamdede, who share his commitment to providing compassionate, comprehensive, state-of-the-art care for women battling cancer. Outside of work, Dr. Taylor enjoys running as well as spending time with his nephews and niece, which typically involves Wii Tennis, paddleboarding, and helping them with their school projects.
Brittany is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner with over 9 years of experience whose passion for women’s health pervades both her professional and personal life. She received her nursing degree from Kansas Wesleyan University where she was also a collegiate soccer player. Her advanced degree is specialized in Women’s Health(WHNP), with her Master’s degree from California State University Long Beach (MSN).
Her medical chops were first cultivated working in the demanding clinical areas of intensive care and surgical units. Over time, Brittany was recognized for possessing a rare talent for women’s health so she was selected, trained and mentored by top gynecologists in the South Bay area. Two of her mentors were and continue to be Dr. Atamdede and Dr. Mirhashemi, who recruited Brittany to join Gynecology Oncology Associates.
Brittany’s philosophy to Women’s Health is guided by empathy, compassion, education and focus on overall wellness. Truly listening to her patients and providing top-notch care with compassion is her style. She also believes in patient empowerment. By equipping her patients with education and informed treatment plans, enhanced care and lasting results are achieved. Proactive wellness is also central to Brittany’s personal life. As a former collegiate athlete and current fitness competitor, she has experienced the unique benefits for women attained by proper nourishment and exercise. These experiences have inspired and help shape her whole patient integrative approach to medicine.
She is excited and honored to serve the diverse needs of women in her community.
Our medical providers look forward to creating lasting relationships with every patient they meet. We involve our patients in the critical decision-making process by listening to their concerns and helping them understand every fact about their particular medical circumstances. We maintain a commitment to be the best advocates for our patient’s unique medical circumstances and preserve the privacy of their medical records. From your first visit, you will be assigned a multidisciplinary care team dedicated to treating your condition while helping you maintain your energy, manage the side effects, and stay strong throughout treatment.
The medical team at GYN LA will work under one roof to develop an integrative treatment plan specifically tailored to meet your unique medical needs.
Ovarian cancer begins in the almond-shaped ovaries and may spread to closer organs, tissues, including the pelvis, lymph nodes, and the abdomen. Epithelial ovarian cancer remains the most common type. It originates in the cells covering the ovaries and abdominal cavity. Ovarian cancer often gives subtle symptoms and may easily be confused with common digestive problems. You, therefore, have to seek an accurate diagnosis and an ideal treatment option. Our medical team are highly trained and experienced in determining the type and stage of ovarian cancer. We make use of advanced medical equipment in providing both surgical and non-surgical treatments for all stages of ovarian cancer. The treatment offered is aimed at targeting and destroying the cancer cells. Our medical team will work closely with you in preventing the growth of new cancer cells and the impact of related side-effects.
Cervical cancer occurs as result of abnormal growth of cells in the cervix, leading to the formation of masses on the surface of the cervix. It’s reportedly the second most common in women worldwide. It has a number of treatment approaches depending on the cause and whether it has affected other areas beyond the cervix. Inaccurate diagnosis may lead to wrong treatment approach and the need to work with experienced gynecology oncologist cannot be insisted enough.
GYN LA employs state-of-the-art technology to provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Our providers offer diverse treatment options including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of the three. Our doctors will involve you and your family in making critical decisions and in every step of your treatment process. After careful and accurate diagnosis, our team will tailor your treatment approach depending on your unique situation. Our entire medical team will walk down the life-changing path with you.
Removal of the cancerous organ remains the primary treatment approach for uterine cancer. This involves performing a hysterectomy. If you’ve been diagnosed with endometrial cancer, you have to contact a highly skilled, experienced, and supportive gynecologic oncologist. At GYN LA, we understand both health and psychological challenges that come with uterine or endometrial cancer and will do all that is possible to help you through.
The medical team at GYN LA uses the latest medical technology to perform endometrial cancer surgeries. 100% of our surgeries are done via Da Vinci robotic platform. The technology is both effective and minimally invasive. Our team will diagnose your case and implement the ideal treatment method. We do understand that different patients have different medical and psychological needs and as a result, we personalize all our operations for each and every client. Our doctors have years of advanced experience in treating uterine cancer. We understand the impacts of this unfortunate disease and will do everything possible to ensure your wellbeing.
Uterine Sarcoma results when a group of malignant cancer cells develops on the muscles supporting the uterus. The common symptoms of uterine sarcoma include pelvic pain and abnormal uterine bleeding. There are various types of uterine sarcoma, each with varying development, changes, and treatment. The three main types include uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS), undifferentiated sarcoma, and endometrial stromal sarcoma.
If not detected and treated early, these tumors can move through your lymphatic system and bloodstream to other distant parts of the body. You have to contact a qualified and experienced gynecology oncologist immediately you are diagnosed in order to have the tumors removed and be put under treatment. Time is of the essence when dealing with these deadly cells and GYN LA is just a call away. With our extensive experience with various types of uterine cancer and state-of-art equipment, you can rest assured that you are dealing with a medical team who knows your situation and cares for your wellbeing.
Vulvar cancer occurs as a result of malignant growth in any part of the vaginal opening. It originates in the vulva and often affects labia minora or labia majora. The disease can only be confirmed through a biopsy, a condition that involves the removal of tissue samples from your body and examinations to verify the presence of cancer. Surgery is the primary treatment method. Advanced stages of Vulvar cancer will require a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. However, there are situations that call for a balance between your sexual function and total removal of cancer.
A vulvar cancer diagnosis is life-changing and our medical providers are prepared to care for patients with this less commonly encountered cancer. Our team of experienced therapists will help you make an informed decision. The goal of our treatment procedures is to remove and kill all the cancer cells without interfering with your sexual function or sensation. We at GYN LA value our patients’ medical and emotional needs and we’ll walk with you and your family through the recovery process. Contact us for chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation services. We will evaluate your condition, engage your family and offer a comprehensive personalized treatment plan.
A pelvic mass is a common gynecological problem that may be found in females of all ages. This condition refers to any growth or tumor in the pelvis, which can be cystic, solid, or both. The management of a pelvic mass depends upon the urgency of presentation and whether the mass is benign or malignant. When you visit GYN LA, the medical team will begin the management process with a careful history and physical examination. We understand the importance of comprehensive pelvis mass management because in some cases, they may be a symptom of an underlying ovarian cancer. We conduct continued surveillance if the malignancy is low and has not been completely excluded. No one is more qualified to treat your pelvis masses than the specialists at GYN LA. We have developed the advanced system required to get you back to your usual self faster and with less pain.
Menopause is a natural period in every woman’s life. However, it comes with a number of challenges including your body’s inability to produce estrogen and progesterone hormones. The results are menopausal symptoms which may include night sweats, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and pain during sex. Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT) will help you to alleviate these frustrating symptoms. If accurately administered, HRT will improve your quality of life, mood changes, urogenital symptoms, and lower your risk of getting colorectal cancer. The most common HRT options are tablets, gel/cream, skin patches, and bio-identical hormone pellets. We are more than happy to help you seamlessly go through this period that can cause so much misery.
Hysterectomy is an operation that involves the removal of the uterus or womb. This procedure is carried out as a result of problems such as excessive bleeding, excessive growth of the womb, prolapse, or pain. The womb can be removed along with the cervix or the ovaries. This is called a total hysterectomy. Conversely, a subtotal hysterectomy is the condition where the cervix is removed.
There are several surgical operations for you to consider, which may depend on your unique situation and recommendations by your gynecologist. When you visit GYN LA, we will analyze your situation and engage you in an open discussion to help you make the right decision. We also allow you to get opinions from your family, friends, and physicians. We understand how this procedure can have great emotional effects but rest assured you’ll have a shoulder to lean on. Our specialized medical team employ the robotic surgery in performing hysterectomy. This technique gives you the shortest recovery period possible.
Abnormal pap smear includes cervicitis and vaginal infections, which can result in an inflammation that appear abnormal or prevent the ability to see normal cells. Abnormal pap smear is caused by Human Papillion Virus (HPV) and most of the time, the HPV does nothing. So, don’t start worrying about cervical cancer before visiting a reputable gynecologist.
Treatment for an abnormal pap smear is based upon the exam and test results as well as the patient’s history. Our medical provider will take a number of approaches when addressing an abnormal pap smear of inflammation. Detection of the condition may include using a liquid-based Pap smear test or the application of a procedure known as colposcopy. The team will conduct a follow-up on the condition and this means that you’ll be subjected to more than one pap smear tests a year, especially during the treatment period. In some cases, the abnormal cells can be removed without hysterectomy. We will develop a unique treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Pelvic prolapse is one of the most frustrating health conditions in women. It occurs when the ligaments and muscles supporting your pelvic organs weaken. If not detected and treated early, the condition may allow your pelvic organs to shift from their natural positions, including vagina, uterus, rectum, bladder, and cervix. Symptoms of pelvic prolapse include pain in the abdomen, constipation, painful intercourse, frequent urination, and vaginal bleeding. The earlier you seek medication the better since delayed treatment may worsen the condition thereby affecting your quality of life.
The medical team at GYN LA is here to help. Our providers have all the necessary training and experience required to rectify your condition, regardless of the stage. We will offer an accurate diagnosis and employ the latest technology during your surgery. Our compassionate staff team will support you throughout the process.
Urinary incontinence refers to the loss of bladder control leading to unintentional urination. It is a common problem for many people and is often embarrassing. Urinary incontinence may result from your everyday habits, physical problems, or underlying health issues. Its symptoms range from occasional small leaks when laughing, coughing, exercising, or sneezing to frequent uncontrolled urination. There are various types of urinary incontinence, including stress, urge, overflow, functional and mixed incontinence.
You must never allow the condition to frustrate your life and deny your social freedom yet GYN LA can help you. Through our state-of-the-art facilities and knowledgeable medical team, we will diagnose your condition to determine the cause then subject you to a personalized treatment plan. Our medical team offers both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options for this condition. We are just a phone call away.
An incisional hernia is a type of hernia resulting from an improperly-healed and weakened wound following a surgery. If the incision from the previous surgery in the abdominal area fails to heal, this may lead to the development of a hernia through which intestines or tissue may protrude through. The bad news is that incision hernias cannot heal on their own given that it is a structural defect of the abdominal wall thus surgical repair is mandatory. A proficient hernia surgeon can be a great resource given that the organs must be moved back into position and the hole in the abdominal wall sealed up. Only our medical specialists can provide you with the best diagnosis and treatment. When you get in touch with him, he will discuss the available options and help you choose the best treatment for your individual case. The treatment options at GYN LA help strengthen the repair and decrease pain after surgery. This results in faster and less painful recovery.
Vulvar disease is any pathological or abnormal condition that affects a section or your entire vulva. The condition can either be noncancerous, pre-cancerous or cancerous. The most common symptoms of vulvar disease include inflammation, itching, burning, pain, and small cracks or changes in skin color.
Vulvar disease can be life-threatening. The disorders may ruin the quality of your life. You, therefore, have to seek medication as soon as you notice one or more of the symptoms. Early intervention does not only make treatment cheaper but also increase your chances of quick recovery. At GYN LA, we assess, treat, and control all types and stages of vulvar disorders and diseases, such as Lichen, Vulvodynia, Vestibulodynia, and chronic candidiasis. Our experienced team of Gynecologists led by Dr. Mirhashemi will offer you a customized medical care. We offer our patients cutting-edge treatment alternatives by use of modern minimally invasive medical technology.
This type of surgery involves the insertion of a thin, lighted telescope known as a laparoscope in addition to other small surgical instruments into the abdomen and navel. This is done through 3 to 4 small incisions. The laparoscope is much like a video camera and acts as a guide that allows the surgeon to remove he uterus through one of the openings with much accuracy. Our medical team are world renowned in providing the latest technologies in laparoscopic gynecologic surgery. Our specialized doctors have performed live surgery nationally and internationally in addressing benign and malignant gynecologic conditions. This procedure is less invasive and allows our patients to achieve faster recovery with a shorter hospital stay, less pain, and quicker return to normal functions. We care about your wellbeing.
Uterine fibroids result from noncancerous abnormal growth in or on the uterus wall. Although causes of fibroids remain unclear, a number of risk factors including hormones, family history, high weight, and pregnancy may influence their formation. Symptoms of uterine fibroids vary from one person to another depending on various factors and may include heavy bleeding during menstruation, pain in the lower back, increased urination, pain during intercourse, prolonged menstrual cycle, and swollen abdomen. The most common types of fibroids include intramural fibroids, subserosal fibroids, pedunculated fibroids, and submucosal fibroids.
Contact GYN LA for elaborate and accurate diagnostic tests and tailored treatment plan. For the diagnosis, we use radiological tests including ultrasounds, CT scan, hysteroscopy, MRI, and hysterosalpingography. Treatment options used at GYN LA include hysterectomy, myomectomy, and uterine artery embolization. There’s no single best treatment option. The choice will depend on the type and severity, size and location of the fibroids, and your medical history. Whatever the case, our team will individualize the treatment according to your situation and needs.
Hormone optimization: bio identical hormone replacement treatment/therapy (BHRT)
Hormones, secreted in miniscule amounts, can evoke vast changes. As we age hormone levels decrease impacting quality of life. – quick blurb on home page
When discussing bioidentical hormone replacement therapy most people believe this topic relates to women, specifically during phases of peri menopause or menopause. This assumption couldn’t be more incorrect. As we age, both men and women, the amount of hormone produced deviates resulting in less than optimal levels, and causing an array of unwanted preventable symptoms.
For women testosterone begins decreasing in their thirties. Later, average age fifty-five, estrogen begins to deplete. The combination of lowering testosterone and estrogen cause symptoms including; hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, decreased libido, brain fog, depression, weight gain, joint pain, and irritability.
Andropause is a phase much like menopause, which men encounter after age thirty-five. And just like women men experience hormonal changes, mainly a decrease in testosterone. In males declining Testosterone can have negative impacts on sexual performance, libido, muscle strength, sleep, energy, and weight.
Here at Enlighten South Bay, our providers use bio identical hormone replacement therapy in the form of pellets that are place directly under the subcutaneous tissue. This technique is easy and painless, offering an opportunity for patients to reach hormonal optimization and obtain the level of wellness desired during all phases of life.
Supplementation
Why is supplementation a necessity? Vitamins and nutrients have substantially decreased in vegetable and fruit sources. Today a person would have to consume twelve bowels of spinach to obtain the iron content of a single bowel of spinach served in the 1930’s. Poor food quality in conjunction with comorbidities, excessive alcohol intake, and stress intensifies decencies by further decreasing vitamin and mineral absorption within the human body.
Probiotics (The Friendly bacteria)
That’s right people not all bacteria are bad. In fact, humans have good bacteria inhabiting almost all body orifices. Majority (60%) resides within the gut and are responsible for healthy immune systems, digestion, vitamin production, and detoxification.
DIM (Di-Indoly-Methane)
Manifesting signs of excess estrogen? DIM, a phytonutrient is found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Bok Choy. It assists in estrogen metabolism and can be valuable to breast, uterine, cervical, and prostate health.
Methyl-Guard Plus
Provides five essential nutrients; Methylfolate (5-MTHF), B6, B2, Methyl B12, and betaine, necessary for proper estrogen metabolism and decreased inflammatory markers. Vitamin B supplementation assists in energy conversion, DNA production, and genetic expression. Poor methylation can effect hormone metabolism and increases risk for cancer and cardiovascular disease. Supplementation with Methyl- Gard Plus assists general wellness while providing cellular support.
ADK 5&10
Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common deficiencies in the United States. Vitamin D less than 35 increases a person’s risk for ALL cancers by forty percent and increases risk of cardiovascular disease by sixty percent. Breast cancer increases six fold if less than fifty. Here at Enlighten South Bay our goal is to optimize vitamin D levels and assist in disease prevention.
Treatment designed for women who, due to hormonal changes, age, childbirth, or pelvic floor trauma, experience vaginal tissue changes.
Vaginal tissue changes due to decreased laxity or hormonal variations effects women’s arousal, orgasms, sexual esteem, and pelvic floor support. Lack of pelvic floor support can lead to issues concerning urination and organ prolapse.
The Geneveve, Viveve system is the only single session non-invasive treatment using cryogen- cooled monopolar radiofrequency to assist in the treatment of sexual dysfunction, vaginal lastisity, and urinary incontinence. The Viveve system has a well-documented safety and efficacy profile for the treatment of vaginal laxity, and is currently used in 64 countries.
This low does non-ablative system uses radio frequency and penetrates up to 7mm to active fibroblast in the vaginal tissue. Activation of fibroblasts promotes new collagen production. Vaginal remodeling begins immediately and occurs over the next three months post treatment. To determine if this treatment is right for you, book your consultation now at Enlighten, South Bay.
Pelvic prolapse is a condition that occurs when one of the pelvic organs, for instance, the uterus or vagina slips out of its usual position. Sacrocolpopexy is surgery done to correct this condition. A surgical mesh is used by the surgeons to maintain your pelvic organs in the right position and even ease your symptoms. Usually, da Vinci surgery will require a few tiny incisions to allow quick recovery. The da Vinci system allows surgeons to carry out an operation with enhanced vision, dexterity, accuracy, and control. With a modern 3D, high definition system, our medical providers are able to clearly see the main anatomy with immense depth, especially for composite conditions. We have been able to develop techniques to perform this type of surgery using the robotic laparoscopic techniques. This is a more accurate and less invasive procedure that will see you return to your daily activities in no time.
The decision is made and you can see the quality of your life improve. Undergoing a myomectomy can be a great relief in as it clears the heavy menstrual flow and painful cramps without the removal of your uterus. Robotic Myomectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used in removing myomas and fibroids. The process can involve either laparoscopy, robot-assisted laparoscopy, or laparotomy (abdominal incision). The choice, however, will depend on several factors including location, number, and size of the fibroids.
Our leading specialists have taken out large and small fibroids using the assistance of the most advanced combination of robotics and surgery technology. The outcome obtained has less risk of healthy tissue loss, less pain, less intraoperatively, and takes the shortest time possible compared to laparotomy or laparoscopy alone. Before recommending a treatment plan, we will look at your medical history, the type and size of your fibroids, and the severity of your condition. A personalized treatment plan will then be developed to help you recover from the painful condition, with less pain.
If you have a benign that poses a risk to your health and quality of life, you may have to undergo a hysterectomy. This is the surgery done to remove the uterus. This surgery can be carried out with open surgery through one large incision but the best method involves a minimally invasive surgery through a few small incisions (cuts) using robotic hysterectomy. This is an effective and less invasive surgical procedure that utilizes a state-of-the-art system, which is designed to enable your doctor to perform the treatment for your gynecological condition without open surgery. Our doctors have performed over 500 robotic hysterectomies west of the Mississippi. We are able to perform robotic assisted hysterectomy and nodal dissection different cancers. When you get the services of GYN LA, you can rest assured that you’ll get a shorter hospital stay, less pain, less infection risk, smaller incision, and faster recovery.