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Top reviews
Dr. Gallivan with each visit has always been very thorough and takes the time to explain and answer all my questions with honest unbiased responses. The staff was professional, enjoyable to talk to and on time. I have had 2 kneeShow more replacements, each with a different outcome. In my situation it was his opinion that a surgical revision to a previous knee replacement (preformed by a different doctor) might very well not bring substantial improvement. Therefore not recommending performing surgery if it would not be guaranteed for an improved outcome. I agreed with him. The knee he did replace is doing very well- I am completely happy with its function. He is also concerned about the patient sustaining/building good overall health for a long enjoyable life. With this visit he recommended a book (Younger Next Year) showing his strong commitment to the importance of maintaining mobility and overall health. Glad the SB area has his expertise.
The first time I saw Dr. Gallivan, I was pleased to see all the sports medicines book. I thought surgery would not be his first suggestion. Over the decades, he was always compassionate and sent for physical therapy and injectionShow mores. Last year, the time for a knee replacement came. Surgery was successful and I am back to walking without pain! Thank you Dr. Gallivan.
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
Practice
Orthopedic Institute of Santa Barbara
Specialties
NPI Number
1790702777
Provider's Gender
Male
Reviews
Great doctor, been a patient for years
The first time I saw Dr. Gallivan, I was pleased to see all the sports medicines book. I thought surgery would not be his first suggestion. Over the decades, he was always compassionate and sent for physical therapy and injections. Last year, the time for a knee replacement came. Surgery was successful and I am back to walking without pain! Thank you Dr. Gallivan.
Dr. Gallivan did LTKR with Mako Robotics on 4/23/24. I couldn’t be happier with the results. I have a 100% functional knee with no pain at all. I’m so happy with the results I scheduled to get the other knee done on 2/11/25. He and his staff are very professional and kind. I highly recommend him for knee replacement
no waiting. Full exam but not sure what final diagnosis was. Did order PT though so am glad for that
Dr Gallavan and his staff are very capable and pleasant. It was particularly helpful of them to schedule all relevant appointments before and after knee surgery. Dr. Gallivan is highly regarded in his field of surgery. It would be helpful to be able to message him directly at times. My only complaint is how long one has to wait at times at the office.
Overall experience was very positive
Excellent
A caring DR does all he can to help you so you will not have to be in pain . Go to a DR that cares . And I was lucky to find him . Carole
All staff welcoming and personable. Yousef scribe was efficient and friendly. Dr Gallivan is relaxed and calm, approachable & informed. He is inquisitive about all ways to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. More than that he demonstrates care for his patients total well being.
Appreciate your keeping me walking with the shots every 4 years. Dr. Adam is terrific, and I appreciate not ever having to wait long to be seen (your place is kept very cold!!!).
Dr. Gallivan did an excellent job on my total hip replacement. The chronic pain in my groin and inner thigh disappeared immediately. During the whole process I felt well cared for.
Great experience, Dr. Gallivan listened to me and answered many questions!
Dr Gallivan is the best! He is beyond kind, listens & got right down to a solution! Thank you too yo the staff!
I was given a professional opinion of my situation
Me gusta mucho que nos explica todo bien
Satisfying
Excellent results and very good care. I had two knee replacements and I am in good shape with no more pain.
Dr Gallivan is great. He is very caring and compassionate. His staff in Solvang where I see him is very friendly and helpful, Especially Karen. He has done both knee replacement and shoulder surgery for me and I am very happy with the results. I highly recommend Dr.Gallivan.
Everyone that helped me was the nicest and most knowledgeable people that I have ever had the pleasure of placing my trust in.
Quick and immediate response.
Personal service like the old days
Outstanding in every way. The staff are knowledgeable and helpful, particularly in understanding a patient in pain, and Dr. Gallivan is unmatched as a joint and extremity specialist. I am grateful and appreciative. Best, Seana Thomas
Very happy. The whole experience was professional and pleasant.
Wonderful doctor.
Good
Doctor Gallivan and his entire staff are incredible. Their bedside manner and their one to one interaction is great. Surgery and out-patient follow up was excellent as well. Have recommended Dr. Gallivan to family members.
I took my mother to Dr. Gallivan years ago and I have to tell you nothing has changed. It’s just still the most wonderful atmosphere. The staff is helpful and they’re happy. I hadn’t been back in five years and I’ll tell you I will not recommend anybody else for the things that they are able to accomplish. Thank you.
Responsive, knowledgeable, and thorough. The more I talk to others the more I heard great things about Dr. Gallivan.
Bedside manner was great they answered all my questions
Bedside manner was great they answered all my questions
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