Best Bariatric Surgeons in Santa Rosa

Introduction to Bariatric Surgery in Santa Rosa

Definition and Purpose of Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, encompasses various surgical procedures designed to help individuals with severe obesity achieve significant and sustained weight loss.

These procedures typically involve modifying the digestive system to limit food intake, reduce nutrient absorption, or both.

The primary goal of bariatric surgery is to improve overall health and quality of life by addressing obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

Importance of Choosing the Right Bariatric Surgeon

Selecting an experienced and qualified bariatric surgeon is a key factor in ensuring successful outcomes and minimizing potential risks associated with the procedure.

A skilled surgeon can significantly influence the safety of the operation, reduce complications, and improve long-term weight loss results.

Additionally, choosing the right surgeon often means access to comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, which is essential for long-term success in weight management and overall health improvement.

Selecting a Bariatric Surgeon in Santa Rosa

Key Factors to Consider

Board Certification and Specialization

• Importance of American Board of Surgery certification
• Relevance of specialization in Bariatric Surgery

Experience and Expertise

• Years of practice in Bariatric Surgery
• Number of procedures performed

Hospital Affiliations

• Quality of affiliated hospitals (e.g., Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital)
• Accreditation status of the hospital's bariatric program

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Importance of considering overall ratings (e.g., Dr. Woodbury's 4.1-star rating)
• Reading individual patient testimonials

Research Resources

Online Physician Directories

• Utilizing platforms like Healthgrades
• Comparing multiple sources for comprehensive information

Local Hospital Recommendations

• Contacting Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital for surgeon referrals
• Exploring other local hospitals' bariatric programs

Professional Medical Associations

• American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) directory
• California chapter of ASMBS for local specialists

Consultation Process

Initial Appointment

• Preparing questions about the surgeon's experience and approach
• Discussing potential procedures and their suitability

Medical History Review

• Gathering relevant medical records
• Discussing any pre-existing conditions with the surgeon

Understanding the Surgical Plan

• Exploring different bariatric surgery options
• Discussing expected outcomes and potential risks

Top-Ranked Bariatric Surgeon in Santa Rosa

Dr. Robert Woodbury

Education and Training

• Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences (Medical School, 1999)
• Navy Medical Center San Diego, Scripps Mercy Hospital, Pacific Bariatric Group (Internship)

Certifications and Specialties

• American Board of Surgery certified
• Specializes in General Surgery, Bariatric Surgery, and Gastroenterological Surgery

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 4.1-star rating out of 5
• Based on 9 patient reviews

Hospital Affiliation

• Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital

Languages Spoken

• English and Spanish

Contact Information

• Phone: (707) 541-7900
• Practice Location: Santa Rosa, CA

Additional Resources for Choosing a Bariatric Surgeon

Consultation Preparation

Questions to Ask

• Inquire about the surgeon's experience with specific bariatric procedures
• Ask about potential risks and complications
• Discuss expected outcomes and recovery timeline

Documentation to Bring

• Complete medical history
• List of current medications
• Recent lab results and imaging studies

Insurance Considerations

Coverage Verification

• Contact insurance provider to confirm coverage for bariatric surgery
• Inquire about pre-authorization requirements
• Understand which specific procedures are covered

Financial Planning

• Estimate out-of-pocket costs
• Explore payment plans or financing options if needed
• Consider costs of post-operative care and follow-up visits

Support Network in Santa Rosa

Local Resources

• Research bariatric support groups at Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital
• Explore online forums specific to bariatric patients in Santa Rosa
• Consider joining pre-operative education classes offered by local hospitals

Personal Support System

• Involve family and friends in the decision-making process
• Identify a support person for pre- and post-operative care
• Connect with other bariatric patients for shared experiences