Best Bariatric Surgeons in Tempe

Introduction to Bariatric Medicine in Tempe

Overview of Bariatric Medicine

Bariatric medicine is a specialized field focusing on the treatment of obesity and related conditions. It encompasses a range of medical interventions, from dietary management to surgical procedures, aimed at helping patients achieve significant weight loss and improve their overall health.

Common bariatric procedures include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding. These surgeries are complemented by non-surgical approaches such as nutrition education and obesity medicine.

Importance of Choosing the Right Bariatric Specialist

Selecting an experienced and skilled bariatric specialist is essential for achieving optimal health outcomes. The right doctor can significantly influence the success of your weight loss journey, minimize potential complications, and provide comprehensive care throughout the process.

Long-term success in bariatric treatment often depends on the expertise of your chosen specialist. A qualified physician can tailor treatment plans, offer ongoing support, and help you maintain weight loss over time.

Bariatric Care in Tempe, Arizona

Tempe, Arizona, offers access to high-quality bariatric care, with several board-certified specialists practicing in the area. The city's proximity to Phoenix also expands the range of available options for patients seeking bariatric treatments.

Several reputable medical facilities in and around Tempe provide comprehensive bariatric services. These include Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, Chandler Regional Medical Center, and Banner Gateway Medical Center, all of which are affiliated with top-rated bariatric surgeons in the area.

Navigating the Doctor Selection Process in Tempe

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bariatric Specialist

Board Certifications and Qualifications

• Review American Board of Surgery certifications
• Consider additional specializations in minimally invasive techniques

Experience and Specializations

• Evaluate years of practice in bariatric surgery
• Look for expertise in specific procedures like laparoscopic surgery

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Examine star ratings and review counts on platforms like Healthgrades
• Pay attention to consistent patterns in patient feedback

Hospital Affiliations and Facilities

Notable Hospitals in Tempe Area

• Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
• Chandler Regional Medical Center
• Banner Gateway Medical Center

Importance of Hospital Quality

• Consider hospital ratings and specializations in bariatric care
• Evaluate available technology and support services

Communication and Compatibility

Language Capabilities

• Check if the doctor speaks your preferred language
• Note that Dr. Maria Brown is bilingual in English and Spanish

Initial Consultations

• Assess doctor-patient rapport during first meeting
• Discuss proposed treatment plans and expectations

Top-Ranked Bariatric Specialists in Tempe

Dr. Jason Richardson

Background and Qualifications

• Board certified by the American Board of Surgery
• Fellowship at University of California at Irvine
• Residency and Internship at Hospital of St. Raphael / Yale University School of Medicine

Areas of Expertise

• Bariatric Surgery
• General Surgery
• Laparoscopic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Obesity Medicine

Patient Satisfaction

• 5.0-star rating from 14 reviews
• Highly regarded by patients

Hospital Affiliations

• Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
• Chandler Regional Medical Center
• Banner Gateway Medical Center

Dr. Maria Brown

Background and Qualifications

• Board certified by the American Board of Surgery
• Fellowship in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery at Westchester Medical Center
• Residency at Albany Medical Center
• Medical degree from St. Georges University School of Medicine

Areas of Expertise

• Bariatric Surgery
• General Surgery

Patient Satisfaction

• 5.0-star rating (note: limited review count of 1)
• Promising start in patient satisfaction

Additional Information

• Fluent in English and Spanish
• Affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area

Dr. Michael Orris

Background and Qualifications

• Board certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery
• Graduated from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Areas of Expertise

• Bariatric Surgery
• General Surgery

Patient Satisfaction

• 4.7-star rating from 119 reviews
• High number of satisfied patients

Hospital Affiliations

• Banner Estrella Medical Center
• Tempe St. Luke's Hospital

Dr. Rita Hadley

Background and Qualifications

• Board certified by the American Board of Surgery
• Residency at Wright State University School of Medicine
• Medical degree from University of Iowa

Areas of Expertise

• Bariatric Surgery
• General Surgery
• Breast Surgery
• Laparoscopic Surgery

Patient Satisfaction

• 3.3-star rating from 27 reviews
• Mixed patient feedback

Hospital Affiliations

• Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
• Chandler Regional Medical Center

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Bariatric Specialist in Tempe

Online Platforms and Directories

Healthgrades and similar websites

• Detailed doctor profiles and patient reviews
• Comparison tools for bariatric specialists in Tempe

Local medical association resources

• Arizona Medical Association directory
• Tempe Chamber of Commerce healthcare provider listings

Support Groups and Patient Networks

Bariatric surgery support groups in Tempe

• Hospital-affiliated support groups
• Community-based weight loss organizations

Online forums and communities

• Bariatric-focused social media groups
• Weight loss journey sharing platforms

Consultation with Primary Care Physicians

Referrals to trusted specialists

• Leveraging existing medical relationships
• Accessing network of bariatric experts

Guidance on medical history considerations

• Personalized advice based on health profile
• Identifying potential contraindications

Questions to Ask Potential Bariatric Specialists

Success rates and complications

• Requesting specific outcome data
• Understanding potential risks

Post-operative care and support

• Long-term follow-up protocols
• Nutritional guidance and lifestyle support