Same-day & next-day appointments sometimes available for urgent concerns — Call (551) 321-1388

Questions before your first visit?

Everything you need to know about what to expect at Dr. Choi's office — from your first appointment to what happens during procedures, insurance, and more.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Expert Colorectal Care | Fort Lee, NJ

What to expect at your first visit

Office procedures explained

Insurance and fees

Surgery and hospital care

Your appointment

What should I expect at my first visit?

Your first visit typically includes a thorough history, a physical and anorectal exam if needed, and a detailed discussion of your symptoms and concerns. Dr. Choi takes time to explain what she finds and what your options are — no rushing. You will not be pressured into any procedure at your first visit.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Choi?

Most insurances do not require a referral for a specialist visit, but we recommend checking with your plan. Call our office and we can help you verify before your appointment.

I'm embarrassed about my symptoms. Will the staff make me feel comfortable?

Absolutely. Dr. Choi and her team work with patients every day who feel embarrassed or anxious about their symptoms or exams. You will not be judged. Dr. Choi takes time to explain what she is doing, answers questions in plain language, and will always work at your comfort level. Many patients say their appointment was far less awkward than they expected.

Can Dr. Choi help with GI or digestive issues, not just proctology?

Yes. Dr. Choi evaluates and treats a broad range of digestive conditions — including IBS, SIBO, GI motility disorders, chronic constipation, and more — alongside her proctology and colorectal surgery practice. If you are unsure whether your condition is within her scope, call us and we'll let you know.

Does Dr. Choi use a functional medicine or holistic approach?

Yes. Dr. Choi's undergraduate training in Nutrition and Food Science, combined with her surgical and clinical expertise, gives her a comprehensive lens on digestive health. She considers diet, lifestyle, gut microbiome balance, and underlying physiological factors when evaluating patients with chronic or complex symptoms. This is especially relevant for conditions like IBS, SIBO, GI motility disorders, visceral hypersensitivity, and chronic constipation.

In-office procedures

What procedures can be done in the office?

Many common anorectal conditions can be treated right in the office — including rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids, incision and drainage of perianal abscesses, excision of small lesions or skin tags, anoscopic examination and biopsy, and wound care. These procedures are performed under local anesthesia and typically take less than an hour.

Will an in-office procedure hurt?

Most in-office procedures use local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Dr. Choi will explain exactly what to expect before beginning and works at your comfort level throughout. Some procedures (like rubber band ligation) may cause temporary pressure or discomfort rather than sharp pain.

How do I know if I need surgery vs. an in-office procedure?

Dr. Choi will evaluate your condition and recommend the safest, most effective and cost-conscious option. Many conditions that patients think require surgery can be managed with in-office treatment. She will discuss all options clearly before recommending anything.

Surgery and hospital care

What determines whether surgery is done at the surgery center vs. the hospital?

Simpler procedures that do not require overnight admission are typically performed at Hudson Crossing Surgery Center. More complex surgeries or those requiring inpatient monitoring are performed at Hackensack University Medical Center or Holy Name Medical Center, where Dr. Choi has admitting privileges.

Insurance and billing

What insurances do you accept?

We accept most major insurances including Aetna, AmeriHealth, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Cloven, Horizon BCBS, Medicare, Medicaid/NJ FamilyCare, United Healthcare, and Wellpoint. We also coordinate out-of-network benefits when available. Call our office to verify your specific plan before scheduling.

Do you see patients without insurance?

Please call our office to discuss options. Dr. Choi is committed to providing cost-effective, practical care and works with patients to find solutions whenever possible.

Have a question we didn't answer?

Call us directly — we're happy to talk through anything before you book your first appointment.

Book an Appointment

Call (551) 321-1388

1625 Anderson Avenue, Suite 203, Fort Lee, New Jersey 07024

Accessibility

Colorectal Care of New Jersey

Expert, compassionate colorectal care — from office procedures to complex surgery — with a natural-first approach and a commitment to your long-term quality of life.

1625 Anderson Ave, Ste 203

Fort Lee, New Jersey 07024

IBS & irregular bowel

Our practice

Location & hours

ANORECTAL CONDITIONS

DIGESTIVE & GI CONDITIONS

PROCEDURES