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Orthopedic Surgeon
320 W Junipero Steet
Santa Barbara, CA
93105
Top reviews
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 witShow moreh 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!
Yesterday I hobbled into orthopedic Institute of Santa Barbara. I am so grateful for the compassion and kindness I received at my appointment. From the moment I walked in the door, the office staff, the x-ray technician the intakeShow more scribe everyone made me feel comfortable. Dr. Gallivan and PA Jenna are amazing! It’s not often you go into a doctors office and you feel like and are treated like you’re the only patient there. All my questions were answered they gave me an outline for care and the confidence to go on my vacation!
About William R. Gallivan JR., MD
Dr. Gallivan is a board certified, fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon. Since opening his practice in 1992, he has focused on sports medicine and joint replacement surgery. He developed a keen interest in orthopedics and sports medicine after a season ending football injury in high school. This interest led him to study at some of the most prestigious training programs available in orthopedics.
Born in Arrington, England, Dr. Gallivan is a fourth-generation surgeon. He earned his medical degree at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia. In 1987, he completed a General Surgery internship at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. He completed his orthopedic training in Philadelphia as the Chief Resident of the Total Joint Service at the Rothman Institute. Training with Dr. Richard Rothman and Dr. Robert Booth, two renowned orthopedic surgeons and implant developers, sparked Dr. Gallivan’s passion for technology fostering his advanced approach to orthopedic surgery and treatment which continues today. In 1992, Dr. Gallivan completed an Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine fellowship at The Institute for Bone and Joint Disorders in Phoenix, Az.
Dr. Gallivan returned to Santa Barbara in 1992 and started his practice. He was the first surgeon on the West Coast to use Computer Assisted Surgery (CAS) to perform hip resurfacing. He also utilizes robotic navigation for the minimally invasive total hip and knee replacement surgeries he performs. With a comprehensive approach, he has developed a Rapid Recovery program for total joints. This protocol has enabled the vast majority of his patients to leave the hospital on the same day as their surgery.
Dr. Gallivan strictly adheres to the principles of focused patient care, wellbeing, and comfort. From the first to final visit, Dr. Gallivan strives to ensure that the patient’s experience is positive and successful.
Happily married, Dr. Gallivan considers family a high priority. When not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Karen, an R.N., and their six children. His many interests include rugby, surfing, stand up paddle boarding, martial arts, horseback riding, guitar and ukulele, and travel.
Education
Undergraduate: Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA
Medical Education: Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
General Surgery Internship: Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, Santa Barbara, CA
Orthopedic Surgery Residency: Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
Total Joint Services: Pennsylvania Hospital; Rothman Institute – Chief Resident Philadelphia, PA
Pediatric Orthopedics: Alfred I. duPont Institute, Wilmington, DE
Sports Medicine & Arthroscopy Fellowship: Institute for Bone and Joint Disorder, Phoenix, AZ
Past & Present Professional Affiliations
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (Board of Counselors 2001–2004)
California Orthopaedic Association (Board of Directors 1994–2004)
Arthroscopy Association of North America
American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons
Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society
Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table, Board of Directors
Arthritis Foundation Regional Board of Directors
Santa Barbara Medical Society
California Medical Association
Sport/Team Affiliations
Professional
AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Consultant Since 1992
ASP Pro Surf Tour USA, Brazil, Portugal, France, Tahiti
NBA LA Clippers Training Camp Team Physician
Pro Cycling Tour de California
PRCA Pro Rodeo
PBR Pro Bull Riding
Santa Barbara Triathlon
USA Rugby – Olympic Training Camp
College/High School
UCSB Rugby Team Physician
ASU Assistant Team Physician 1992
Loyola Mary Mount Assistant Trainer 1978
Philadelphia Medical Rugby Football Club 1984-1990 – Team Physician
UCSB International Rugby Tournament 1992-2005 – Medical Director
Ironwood High School 1991 – Team Physician
Radnor High School 1989-1990 – Team Physician
Carpinteria High School – Team Physician
Hospital Affiliations
Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital
Goleta Valley College Hospital
Santa Yenz Cottage Hospital
Arthritis
Fractures
Hip Pain
Knee Pain
Mako Robotic Joint Replacement
Shoulder Pain
Locations (2)
Orthopedic Institute of Santa Barbara
320 W Junipero Steet
Santa Barbara, CA, 93105
Orthopedic Institute of Santa Barbara
2040 Viborg Rd.
Suite 230
Solvang, CA, 93463
More About Dr. William Gallivan, MD
NPI Number
1790702777
Provider's Gender
Male
Reviews
So glad I was referred to Dr Gallivan. Knee replacement was a complete success.
Dr Gallivan is remarkable! He saved me from an unnecessary surgery another orthopedist had planned for me. He went over every single detail of my care and was in touch with my PT afterwards. I don’t know how he does it but he really cares. today was the one year anniversary of my procedure and it’s perfect!
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!!!
Enjoyed visit with Dr Gallivan
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 ?
Good
From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcoming, capable, and efficient. For such a busy place, everyone was quite relaxed and friendly.
Very attentive physician and staff
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.
Makes the whole process easy. Care at Cottage is top notch
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!
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
All good.
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.
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.
Office staff friendly and helpful. Dr Gallivan thorough and listened to my answers regarding my pain and situation.
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
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
Yesterday I hobbled into orthopedic Institute of Santa Barbara. I am so grateful for the compassion and kindness I received at my appointment. From the moment I walked in the door, the office staff, the x-ray technician the intake scribe everyone made me feel comfortable. Dr. Gallivan and PA Jenna are amazing! It’s not often you go into a doctors office and you feel like and are treated like you’re the only patient there. All my questions were answered they gave me an outline for care and the confidence to go on my vacation!
I think Dr Gallivan and staff are absolutely wonderful. Everyone is friendly and professional. Dr Gallivan did my hip replacement in 2017 and I saw him today for a knee problem . He gave me my options, talks my language, straight and to the point. Regardless of what option I decide to do only Dr Gallivan will be doing it!
Very informative
He gives good clear explanations. Give you time to ask any questions you might have. Seems like a very caring person. Good support staff.
Dr. Gallivan gave me an injection in my shoulder today! He did a very good job! He also gave me some referrals for the other parts of my arm!
Explains what choices I have well. Timely. Nice staff.
Thorough appointment and given hope
Dr. Gallivan gave me a thorough report based on X-rays and all of my options. I felt good about the information gathering. Thank you Leslie
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