When Karley made her first call to The Iowa Clinic’s Plastic Surgery department, she wasn’t looking for a specific provider. She was looking for reassurance – an answer to a deeply personal journey that had already taken 2.5 years, 180 pounds lost, and a long battle with body dysmorphia and anxiety.
“I had no idea which surgeon I wanted to see,” Karley said. “I was planning to meet with a few to see who felt right.”
The scheduler matched her with West Des Moines plastic surgeon Dr. Maria Steil based on availability – an appointment that would quickly become much more than chance.
A Life-Changing Consultation
Karley came to the appointment filled with nerves and vulnerability, preparing herself to expose the thing she had worked so hard to overcome, but still struggled to accept – her own body.
But instead of judgement or indifference, she was met with warmth, respect, and empathy.
“Dr. Steil greeted my wife and me like old friends,” Karley says. “She sat down with us, answered all my questions, and when it came time for the exam, she was gentle, transparent, and kind. I walked out of that first visit knowing I didn’t need a second opinion. She had already earned my trust – something not easy to do.”
Surgical Excellence and Unmatched Compassion
Before surgery, Dr. Steil took time to carefully map Karley’s skin, explaining every step with clarity and reassurance. Post-surgery, she not only updated Karley’s wife but made a personal trip to Karley’s bedside hours later to celebrate the success – and show pride in the results.
But it was what came next that truly revealed the depth of Dr. Steil’s care.
When Karley experienced a post-operative complication, Dr. Steil didn’t just issue orders from afar. She came right back to the hospital that night and stayed by Karley’s side – emptying drains, taking vitals, cooling her forehead, rubbing her back through waves of nausea.
“She stayed for hours. Not because she had to, but because she cared,” Karley said.
Even after a second surgery was needed – a known risk given Karley’s surgical history – Dr. Steil was there before Karley even entered the operating room. She held her hand through anesthesia, assisted with positioning, and was there when Karley woke up.
More Than a Surgeon
Over the next several days, Dr. Steil continued to round in person. She assisted with nursing duties, helped Karley walk again, and treated her not just as a patient, but as a whole person.
As a longtime healthcare professional herself, Karley has worked with hundreds of physicians. But she says what she experienced with Dr. Steil goes far beyond the standard of care.
“Dr. Steil’s attention to detail is unmatched. Her humility, skill, and humanity make her the kind of provider every patient hopes for. I was cared for like family – and that’s something I’ll never forget.
For Karley, the transformation wasn’t just physical. It was emotional. It was healing. And it was possible because of a provider who didn’t just remove skin – but restored confidence.