I received a hip arthroscopy from Dr. Lawler to fix a labral tear and hip impingement in Fall 2024. I am extremely happy with my choice to work with him and his team- they were kind, competant, and efficient. I went through a number of potential candidates in the Bay Area and Dr. Lawler was the first surgeon that made me feel fully confident in the path forward. In particular, I appreciated his determination to get me to 100% from a sport performance perspective- I felt that he really cared about the difference between a 80% recovery and a 100% recovery. I'm still early on in the recovery process, but so far everything has gone smoothly. I experienced significally less pain after my procedure than expected based on my online research and onversations with friends (though this could certainly also be due to the specifics of my own case). A couple of things I appreciated about the experince: - Dr. Lawler spent nearly an hour talking me through the decision to get the surgery and answering my questions without rushing me. - Kate Donnelly (his PA) was a great communicator and made me feel secure in my treatment. - The office team did a good job providing me the necessary information and following up with me about medications and paperwork. Scheduling was easy compared to my experiences at other clinics, thought it was a little hard to figure out how I would need to prepare my home for recovery (e.g. definitely get bars for the bathroom if you can). - Despite a delay of 2 hours on my surgery, the team at the North Bay Regional surgey center kept my spirits high and made me feel very comfortable as I waited. Big thank you to Kate, Dr. Lawler, and the rest of the team! read more

Dr Lawler treated me for a torn meniscus. He showed me the MRI imaging and explained what he was seeing in my knee. An assistant also took a few X-ray images right there in his office that were ready to view within moments. He explained the imaging, and presented me with options for treatment. The best option in my opinion, and based on his knowledgeable explanation, was surgery. A few weeks later he performed the surgery. He spent time with me before and after, and had a great demeanor and personality each time I've communicated with him. A week after my surgery I had a follow-up appointment with his office. I spoke with Marcy who was very polite and knowledgeable. She took plenty of time to clearly answer my questions related to the surgery and the healing process. She explained the 10 or so images that Dr Lawler had taken during the procedure one at a time. My experience with Dr Lawler's office has been consistently positive. I would definitely recommend his practice to anyone in need of knee repair. It has been 2 weeks since my surgery. read more

My son severely broke his collarbone on Saturday. Novato ER put him in a sling. We called Lawler's office 1st thing Monday morning to get him in to see Lawler, or someone else in his practice. We were told--and I quote, "We have nothing this week, or next week." Unbelievable. We reiterated to the receptionist he broke his collarbone, but that didn't matter. Update: Dr. Lawler called us, apologized for what happened and said the issue within his office was handled. read more

I have been to many orthopedic surgeons, due to chronic dislocation (75) When I got to his office I was surprised at how unprofessional it was, nice but unprofessional. Then Dr Lawler comes in and he seemed somewhat distracted...instead of listening to me he was coming up with a conclusion based on bias, arrogance and treating me just like any average person instead of really listening to my concern. He even dismissed me and my condition and arrogantly said he knew about this because his kid has this... but you see you can't put someone in a box like others, I can guarantee his kids issue is completely different than mine, since it's very rare. Anyway it was very frustrating and when he left he literally just exited the room with out saying nice to meet you, thank you, we'll get this fixed, etc. I canceled my future appt and found another doc that seems a hell of a lot more professional than this guy. Patient be ware!! read more

What a wonderful doctor and staff! I had a pretty serious surgery and still recovering as at my age I was really worried. Everyday im healing a little more. Thank you all so much! Ur the best! read more

I could write a book on this Dr, his staff and the call center. But I don't want to spend all the time it would take to give you the details. The call center- Unbelievable hold times. When they made a mistake, they always blamed me instead of taking ownership or apologizing and fixing it. Katie, his assistant, was great at the beginning but became frustrated with me because of how much time they were giving me and accused me of complaining that they never return my phone calls. They always returned my phone calls! Katie once failed to put in an Xray order and I had to make a dozen phone calls to find out what happened to the order. Putting in an order for them can take close to a month. And, they blamed my insurance company. They could care less that I was in a lot of pain. To be brief, the last time I saw Dr Lawler he was agitated and hostile. He told me he wasn't sure if my lack of memory was real or on purpose. He told me to stop asking for injections. Since I never asked for injections but was always cautious and avoided them until I was in so much hip pain I didn't care about the side effects, I allowed them. That is when he lost all credibility. read more

My initial impression of Dr Lawler was very good. His office got me in in less than one week for evaluation of a painful groin injury. He spent a lot of time with me and was very charming. He seemed to understand my concerns. He predicted that my groin injury would heal in up to 4 - 6 weeks. He recommended that I take Pilates for rehab letting my symptoms be my guide. When my symptoms persisted for longer than 8 weeks despite daily rest, ice, compression and ibuprofen, I phoned his office. At that point I was in pain all of the time worse with prolonged standing. I was completely unable to exercise. A mid level provider phoned me back, said she spoke to Dr Lawler and that he suggested a diagnostic/therapeutic steroid injection. I was uncomfortable pursuing this at that time due risk of tendon injury, weakening of the tendon and tendon rupture (albeit rare). I wanted to try a cryo-compression device but the provider was not familiar with their use or how to prescribe. After dealing with the disabling pain for a few more days, I became willing to try the injection. I phoned Dr Lawler's medical assistant, described my problem and requested an appointment. I was then told that it would take almost a month to get in. I explained the severity of my symptoms and requested that the doctor call me to further discuss since I was not going be able to see him promptly. I waited 6 days for a call. On the 7th day I called and told the MA that I hadn't heard from the doctor. The MA said she gave him my message but would try again. An hour or so later, she phoned me back, said the Dr wasn't sure of what the next step was and that he wanted me to keep the scheduled appointment. I asked "is he refusing to call me back". She just reiterated that I should keep the appointment. At that point I decided to seek another physician evaluation and asked to cancel my appointment. In retrospect, despite his charm, he seemed to miss the findings seen on my MRI by the UCSF radiologist. His diagnosis of hip flexor strain did not quite fit with the location of my symptoms and the exacerbation with resisted adduction. I am not an orthopedist of course and he may be correct but now I'm going to need to look for another physician for evaluation and management of my condition. As a retired physician, I compared his telephone policies with my own. I usually called patients back within 24 hours to answer questions but within the hour for urgent complaints. In summary, although Dr Lawler seems open, friendly and knowledgeable, I am dissatisfied that he did not call me back or get me in for f/u more quickly. I am concerned that my problem is more complex and severe than he indicated. And I'm not sure he interpreted my symptoms and MRI correctly. I'm also concerned that at one point he recommended a steroid injection but then told the MA that he was unsure about what to do. One simple and brief phone call could have set my mind at ease. I have never posted a review of this type on-line but since the Dr did not call me back, I felt he deserved this feed-back. read more

Stupendous. Dr Lawler guided me carefully through every alternative to surgery for several months before working with me to decide it was the smartest way forward. When it was time to be proactive scheduling etc was super fast. I so appreciate his buoyant good humor, his real curiosity for the specifics of each patient, each surgery and each recovery. My procedure ( removal of bone spur and fix for hefty labral tear) couldn't have been more customized for me. I felt listened to and understood. You are never rushed. Each consultation is fast paced and goal orientated but is a thorough conversation with plenty of time for questions. And he doesn't just answer questions he asks them. I know for sure that any information it was possible to glean from my case to help other patients in the future has been salted away. He often refers to specific patients he has treated before. His approach to post op enabled me to listen to my body and be comfortably off crutches within a week. Had I happened to need 4 weeks I would have also been prepared for that. It's not a race. He has pioneered a system of encouraging weight bearing walking 'as tolerated' rather than restricting every patient to a fixed time on crutches. Here I have benefitted from his curious and individual specific observations of former patients. Beyond being epic at chopping people up etc lol I have to say he is just the kind of person the world needs more of. I adored him within five seconds of meeting him. (Even if there is nothing wrong with you do consider a December appointment, his Christmas sweaters are worth the co- pay). He is clearly and deservedly respected and adored by every patient, nurse, fellow physician and administrative staff member I have met in his orb. Confidence and results without arrogance. read more

Dr. Lawler is hands down the best in the industry. He cares deeply for every single one of his patients and treats us all like we are part of the family. While Dr. Lawler was the "second opinion", he ended up being the absolute best surgeon and even better with follow on care. I am finally pain free and I am only two weeks post-op. Thank you, Dr. Lawler!! read more

For several years I have been seeing Dr. Lawler for a problem knee. To postpone getting a knee replacement, I've been getting injections that are postponing the inevitable. This entails one to three visits per year. Dr. Lawler is always fully focused, willing to answer any and all questions, and full of good humor. The staff are friendly and efficient, too. This is one doctor whom I look forward to seeing. I'm grateful for that. read more

This doctor requires Xrays before he will even see you. I wanted to know if I should get a cortisone shot as my knee had been in some mild pain for 3 weeks. Some talk pre-Xray would have been nice. Maybe some feeling around the area - some touch. Nope -- get that radiation, then we will talk very briefly, then a quick and very painful (I've had many - this was the most painful one ever) cortisone shot and weeks later, my knee feels worse than when I went in. Another time I'd gone in about my knee after playing basketball. After the requisite Xray, he told me that I should just continue playing, be more careful "like he does", ice after. OK, fine, but that didn't work so I decided to stop the Bball for awhile/rest and not "just keep playing" and was better on my own. Another post Xray of my hip, "your hip is fine, its your S/I! Why are you here again!" Could he have told me that pre-Xray? I was there again because the S/I doc said, "If my cortisone shot to your S/I doesn't work, you should see Dr. Lawler again about your hip". All the Xrays (which he says he can't send elsewhere - proprietary?), the 5 minute visits, the dismissive attitude. AHH ... I'll be looking for another doctor for this knee. (He gets 2 stars because his PA is really good). read more

I'm sorry Dr Lawler, you have a serious problem at the reception. We arrived early to your office, other patients waiting to be helped at the front desk and being ignoed. When our turn at front desk, same treatment, no help for a while, then receptionist wrote on chart that we were late and to have other patients ahead of us. The red headed woman who did our intake looked at us with this disgusted look. We're not asking for favors, or begging for money. We need your trustable service. read more

I have seen Dr. Lawler three times now, and have nothing but good things to say. He is very personable and I like that he spends considerable amount of time with you (you don't get that rushed "he has to get to another patient" syndrome that I have gotten with other doctors. He spends a lot of time discussing my situation with my knee. I have gotten two cortisone shots which has helped immensely. We are discussing PRP injection therapy if this current round of cortisone does not completely make the problem go away. His office is first rate, everyone very nice. I saw one complaint that a patient was upset that the doctor first wanted to take an xray before discussing anything further. Well duh? You have to have the Xray first, and then discuss based on the finding in that Xray. Not the other way around. He would just be wasting your time. He did this for me yesterday, and then we totally discussed my situation, if the condition had changed since last Xrays, etc. We decided on a course of treatment, another cortisone shot and then will discuss PRP injections in the future, if needed. But again, I like that he spends so much time with you and discusses everything, explains everything, even discusses your personal life situation. He then discusses past and future treatment options. No rushing here. I am so glad I found Dr. Lawyer and give him nothing but the highest rating and review. read more

Dr Lawler was fabulous!! He was so kind and engaging, very informative and spent as much time as we needed to have our questions answered. My 10-yr-old son was taken care of and felt very comfortable too. The office staff was top notch too! Very impressive doctor's office. We also saw the nurse practicioner, who in my opinion was as good as the doctor, she was excellent. read more

One of the best Orthopedic surgeon in Marin. I had the pleasured working with Doctor Lawler few years ago and just recently I had to see Dr. Solomon for my left knee. He is a very caring and knowledgeable Doctor . I ended up not needing a surgery just a brace and crutches for a few weeks . I am so happy and grateful to this office . Michelle the PA is a very wonderful person she was able to see me on the same day when I called the office with my knee all in pain and swollen . Thank you again California Orthopedics & Spine in Novato . read more

Having had two previous knee surgeries, and I have had a hard time with Dr's wanting to work with me. That being said, this experience from beginning to end was fantastic. Loved the attitude of front desk. Doctor was on time. He spent a good 30 mins going over history and explaining options including some alternative choices. We have a non aggressive plan in play leading up to a small surgery if necessary. I really Dr Mark Lawler. read more

I am a patient of Dr. Lawler and am extremely pleased with his surgical skills and professionalism. My orthoscopic hip surgery went really well and I am feeling better much sooner than I thought I would. Thank you so much! read more

I didn't get in to see Dr. Lawler because he had too many surgeries booked. (Translation: with him being able to bill for surgeries, why waste time with silly little diagnoses.) His PA thought that my (now properly diagnosed by a Dr. who was actually available) torn meniscus and leaky cyst was gout and wanted to give me a cortisone shot (which I refused because despite a lack of any medical training I'm not an idiot) to see if that helped. I also had lower back issues and apparently Dr Lawler, or his PA, don't deal with that, they have a separate dr and PA who deal with the spine. So convenient for them to charge lots of $ for lots of different PA's and useless exams where nothing is diagnosed. Very inconvenient for me, however so I declined and went with a really great Dr. who was recommended by a friend. This practice should be ashamed of themselves. read more

This man is a true humanitarian. I came in very broken with my knee no more than a gelatanous mess. Dr. Lawler, instead of discouraging riding motorcycles treated me as if I were an athelete and made it his goal to get me back up and riding. Yesterday I was able to kickstart the bike with my repaired leg!!!! I am truly better than I was before my accident. Unfortunately, I barely have a scar to show off the work he did lol A+++++ to this warm approachable surgeon and his amazing staff! read more

UPDATE - Today after waiting, getting worse and suffering for over six months, this POS cancels my appointment and does not make another!! Arrogance mixed with cockpit culture (Asiana flight 412 - kills people)and cowardly behavior is an insult to this physicians instructors and his patients. The more I think about his not listening, not asking many questions, just barged in to the exam room with what the previous OS said was wrong (BTW - he has moved on, hopefully to a profession where he can not maim people) none of my symptoms were supported by ANY diagnostics he made me go through. To blow off me for over six months, I had to chase the diagnostic information down myself and get everyone on the same page - shame on this sorry excuse for a doctor, shame on his staff and shame on the Marin Community Clinics for causing me so much grief, reducing my life to 20 feet from my bed, making me suffer and have to use crutches! I have Reported Dr. Lawlers behavior and lack of care to my insurance company and will be filing a grievance with the State of California as well. If I have suffered any permanent damage as a result of his neglect, I won't hesitate to call an attorney. I just can not figure out these OS doctors behavior, maybe they hate poor people and/ or women read more

Dr. Mark Lawler's office is a classic yin and in Yang. Dr. Lawler himself is very experienced, highly capable and has a charming personality. Getting by his office staff is the hurdle for many patients and sometimes so problematic that a visit to a less capable physician might mean a better overall experience. Last summer I had an emergency and tried to get the doctor to see me. I got no sympathy from use staff and an appointment three weeks later. I thought because of the emergency and being an stablished patient of Dr. Lawler that was rather shabby. The condescending attitude of the staff added to the shabby treatment. I immediately headed for the emergency room at the veteran's affairs VA Hospital in San Francisco that treated me with compassion and excellent care. I forgot to put Lawler's office appointment in my calendar. Seven months later I received a bill for 50 dollars for missing the appointment. I wrote a letter to Dr. Lawler explained the situation and requesting that the bill should be eliminated and that he address staff problems. I received a very nice, cordial phone call from Dr.Lawler himself apologizing for the situation and saying he was taking corrective action. Altogether I'd say that Lawler is a fine physician with his heart in the right place who has to better organize his very busy practice. I suggest having a "Chief of Staff" who can arbitrate emergency cases such as mine. read more

Words can't express how amazing this surgeon is. After years of pain and being brushed off by other MD's Dr Lawler took the time to review all my records and to listen. I mean really listen. He came up with a plan and we are working through it. He is incredibly responsive to email, he never ever has made me feel rushed when I am there to see him. He is kind beyond words and truly wants to help. If your looking for a skilled, yet compassionate and kind MD, this is the right doctor for you. I am also a healthcare worker in a different health system so this review is based on my knowledge of healthcare and personal experience. He's amazing! read more

Dr Lawler treated me for a torn labrum last fall. He did a hip arthroscopy with a labral repair at the Novato surgery center. Dr Lawler is top notch! Very professional and knowledgeable and very kind. My surgery went well and he supported me through several months of recovery. His staff is excellent too. As I was running the last few km of the Armstrong woods 12 k trail race last week I realized that it wouldn't have been possible to regain the ability to do these events without his expert care. Thanks Dr Lawler! read more

Dr. Lawler is a partner and practicing physician in the Future Medical Group- The Center for Regenerative Medicine, providing regenerative orthopedic services. I had 3 stem cell injections into a knee, shoulder and hip 3 months ago in an attempt to stimulate cartilage growth. It takes about 2-8 months to determine the actual outcome, but I can't say enough about how simple the procedure was. Dr. Lawler is clearly skilled and knowledgeable about what he does and how he does it. This procedure is part of the future of orthopedic medicine and Dr. Lawler, in my opinion, is at the forefront of the changes in thought and practice. I feel quite confident that I will get the best possible outcome that my body can produce. Beth R. read more

I have no comment on the capabilities of Dr. Lawler. This review is based on the Marin Orthopedics & Sports Medicine (now California Orthopedics and Spine) front office staff and the lack of professionalism that seems to permeate every conversation I have had with them. On two separate occasions, I have tried to book appointments with Dr. Lawler through his Marin Sports Medicine practice. Regardless of the time of day or day of the week, I have sat on hold for not less than 30 mins just to speak to a receptionist. When connected with a receptionist, I have, for all but one time, been told to hold for an additional 10 minutes or have been disconnected. When trying to schedule appointments, I have somehow never connected with staff that knows Dr. Lawler's schedule and am referred to call back later. This is not only unprofessional because of the excessive wait times but also because it suggests that, at any given time, there is not staff that can adequately answer simple scheduling questions for one of the principle doctors at the practice. For reference, there are/were only three doctors operating out of the Novato office. Frustrations on wait times and lack of professional competence from the front office staff. After calling to cancel an appointment and of course, leaving a message, my phone call was never returned and I was charged for the cost of the visit. The charge has since been disputed and overturned by the CC company. After these experiences, I will not be returning to California Orthopedics and will encourage my staff (who are either former athletes or active) to look elsewhere. read more

Mark Lawler, M.D. is an excellent physician who was recommended to me by a personal friend who is a retired orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Lawler is knowledgeable and has excellent communication skills so you leave your appointment with a clear idea of your diagnosis and an understanding of how best to promote your own healing with exercise and other treatments plus a list of what might make an injury worse. Additionally he always recommends physical therapists who are really good. I have referred a number of my friends to his care and they always thank me for referring them to a doctor who provides skilled and excellent care. His assistant Nicolle is also excellent at interviewing and doing an initial evaluation to expedite diagnosis and treatment. The office has X-rays on site as well as sonograms and other test facilities which is great for confirming diagnoses on site. read more

Terrible service and put the wrong size hardware in my ankle during surgery. I spent the next two weeks with it coming through the other side. I would never let him touch me or any one I knew. Billing dept billed errors through a different dr stay away!!!! I would give zero stars if I could read more