Best Bariatric Surgeons in Long Beach

Introduction to Bariatrics in Long Beach

Overview of Bariatrics as a Medical Specialty

Bariatrics is a branch of medicine that focuses on the study and treatment of obesity.

It encompasses various weight loss interventions, including surgical procedures, dietary management, and lifestyle modifications.

Common bariatric procedures include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding.

These treatments aim to help patients achieve significant weight loss and improve obesity-related health conditions.

Importance of Bariatrics in Modern Healthcare

With increasing obesity rates worldwide, bariatrics has become an essential field in modern healthcare.

Obesity is associated with numerous health risks, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.

Bariatric interventions can lead to substantial weight loss, improved quality of life, and resolution of obesity-related comorbidities.

These treatments often result in long-term health benefits and increased life expectancy for patients struggling with severe obesity.

Bariatric Care in Long Beach

Long Beach offers a range of bariatric care options, with several highly qualified specialists practicing in the area.

The city's healthcare facilities, including St. Mary Medical Center, provide comprehensive bariatric services.

Patients in Long Beach have access to both surgical and non-surgical weight loss interventions.

The local medical community emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to obesity treatment, combining surgical expertise with nutritional counseling and lifestyle support.

Choosing a Bariatric Surgeon in Long Beach

Understanding Bariatric Surgery

Types of bariatric procedures

• Gastric bypass
• Sleeve gastrectomy
• Adjustable gastric banding

Benefits and risks of bariatric surgery

• Weight loss outcomes
• Improvement in obesity-related conditions
• Potential complications and side effects

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Bariatric Surgeon

Qualifications and Certifications

• Board certification in surgery
• Specialization in bariatric surgery
• Additional certifications (e.g., American Board of Obesity Medicine)

Experience and Expertise

• Number of procedures performed
• Years of experience in bariatric surgery
• Success rates and patient outcomes

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Overall star rating
• Number of patient reviews
• Specific feedback on bedside manner and results

Hospital Affiliations

• Quality of affiliated hospitals
• Availability of specialized bariatric facilities
• Support services for bariatric patients

Steps in the Selection Process

Research and Initial Screening

• Compiling a list of potential surgeons
• Reviewing online profiles and credentials
• Checking for any disciplinary actions or malpractice claims

Consultations and Interviews

• Scheduling initial consultations
• Preparing questions about the surgeon's approach and experience
• Assessing communication style and patient rapport

Evaluating the Surgical Team and Facilities

• Meeting with the support staff
• Touring the surgical facilities
• Understanding the pre- and post-operative care process

Top-Rated Bariatric Surgeons in Long Beach

Dr. Sepehr Lalezari

Qualifications and Experience

• Board certified in Surgery and Obesity Medicine
• Affiliated with prestigious hospitals including Johns Hopkins and Cedars-Sinai
• Educated at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and St. George's University

Patient Satisfaction

• Impressive 5-star rating from 219 reviews
• Multilingual: speaks English, Persian, and Spanish

Practice Information

• Specializes in Bariatric Surgery, General Surgery, and Cosmetic, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
• Primary affiliation with St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach

Dr. Brian Smith

Qualifications and Experience

• Board certified in Surgery
• Fellowship at University of California Irvine Medical Center
• Educated at New York Medical College and Universidad de Guadalajara

Patient Satisfaction

• High 4.8-star rating from 73 reviews
• Bilingual: speaks English and Spanish

Practice Information

• Specializes in General Surgery and Bariatric Surgery
• Contact number: (562) 826-8000
• Affiliated with UCI Medical Center

Dr. Malgorzata Stanczyk

Qualifications and Experience

• Board certified in Surgery
• Educated at Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Ecuador

Patient Satisfaction

• Perfect 5-star rating from 8 reviews
• Multilingual: speaks English, Polish, and Spanish

Practice Information

• Specializes in Bariatric Surgery and General Surgery
• Contact number: (562) 491-7935
• Affiliated with St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach

Additional Resources for Finding Bariatric Surgeons in Long Beach

Professional Organizations and Directories

American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS)

• Directory of certified bariatric surgeons
• Information on accredited bariatric surgery centers

California Medical Board

• Verification of physician licenses and credentials
• Any disciplinary actions or malpractice claims

Online Review Platforms and Healthcare Provider Databases

Healthgrades

• Comprehensive doctor profiles and patient reviews
• Star ratings and patient satisfaction scores

Vitals

• Patient reviews and ratings
• Information on bariatric surgeons' experience and qualifications

Local Healthcare Resources

Long Beach Memorial Medical Center

• Bariatric surgery program information
• List of affiliated bariatric surgeons

St. Mary Medical Center

• Weight loss surgery resources
• Contact information for bariatric surgery department