Thomas L Bauer II, MD

Thomas L. Bauer, MD, is a board-certified thoracic and esophageal surgeon dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients facing complex medical lung and esophageal conditions. As chair of Surgery and chief of Thoracic Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, as well as the chair of Thoracic Surgery for the southern region, Dr. Bauer leads a team of skilled professionals while remaining deeply committed to the individual needs of each patient.

Dr. Bauer specializes in the surgical treatment of both cancerous and benign conditions of the lung and esophagus. His expertise extends to a wide range of procedures, with a particular interest in utilizing minimally invasive techniques, including robotic approaches to lung resection and hiatal hernia repair. By embracing these advanced technologies, Dr. Bauer strives to minimize patient discomfort, shorten recovery times, and improve overall outcomes.

For Dr. Bauer, the cornerstone of his practice lies in treating patients like family. He understands the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany surgical interventions and believes in providing clear, straightforward explanations of diagnoses and treatment options. He is committed to empowering patients to actively participate in their care, ensuring they feel informed and supported throughout their journey. This personalized approach, combined with his surgical expertise, allows him to offer tailored solutions to even the most complex medical problems.

Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Bauer is deeply involved in advancing the field of thoracic surgery. He actively participates in clinical cancer research, constantly seeking innovative ways to improve treatment strategies and patient outcomes. He is also a strong advocate for lung cancer screening, recognizing the critical importance of early detection in improving survival rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What conditions does Dr. Bauer treat?

Dr. Bauer specializes in the surgical treatment of cancerous and non-cancerous conditions of the lungs and esophagus; including, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, hiatal hernias, and other complex medical issues within the chest. 

2. What is Dr. Bauer's approach to surgery?

Dr. Bauer uses minimally invasive techniques, including robotic-assisted surgery whenever possible. These advanced approaches are designed to minimize patient discomfort, lead to shorter recovery times, and improve overall outcomes. 

3. What can I expect during my recovery from thoracic surgery?

Recovery from thoracic surgery is a gradual process and varies for each person. Dr. Bauer and his team will provide personalized instructions for your recovery, which may include breathing exercises, pain management, and a plan for gradually increasing your physical activity. 

4. Why is lung cancer screening important?

Lung cancer screenings are critical for early detection. Finding lung cancer at an earlier stage can significantly improve survival rates. Individuals at high risk for lung cancer, such as those with a history of smoking, should discuss with their doctor whether screening is right for them.

5. Where is Dr. Bauer's office located?

Jersey Shore University Medical Center
1945 Route 33, Neptune, NJ 07753
Phone: 732-776-3690

6. How can I schedule an appointment with Dr. Bauer?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our office at 732-776-3690.