Best Bariatric Surgeons in Colorado Springs

Introduction to Bariatrics in Colorado Springs

Overview of Bariatrics as a Medical Specialty

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

It encompasses various approaches, including surgical interventions, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications.

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

Importance of Bariatrics in Modern Healthcare

With increasing obesity rates, bariatrics plays a significant role in addressing weight-related health issues.

Bariatric treatments can lead to substantial weight loss and improvement in obesity-related comorbidities.

These interventions often result in enhanced quality of life and increased life expectancy for patients.

Bariatrics in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs offers a range of bariatric services, with several qualified specialists practicing in the area.

The city's healthcare facilities, including UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central and Centura Penrose Hospital, provide advanced bariatric care.

Patients in Colorado Springs have access to both surgical and non-surgical bariatric treatment options.

Choosing a Bariatric Doctor in Colorado Springs

Understanding Bariatric Medicine

Definition and scope of bariatric medicine

• Explanation of weight management and obesity treatment
• Types of bariatric procedures and non-surgical interventions

Importance of choosing a qualified bariatric specialist

• Impact on treatment outcomes and patient safety
• Long-term health benefits of working with an experienced professional

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Bariatric Doctor

Qualifications and Certifications

• Board certifications (e.g., American Board of Surgery for Dr. Frank Chae)
• Specialized training and fellowships in bariatric medicine

Experience and Expertise

• Years of practice in bariatric medicine
• Types of procedures and treatments offered

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Importance of star ratings (e.g., Dr. Khurram Khan's 4.7-star rating)
• Number of patient reviews (e.g., Dr. Frank Chae's 33 reviews)

Hospital Affiliations

• Quality of affiliated hospitals in Colorado Springs
• Availability of state-of-the-art facilities for bariatric procedures

How to Research Bariatric Doctors in Colorado Springs

Online Resources

• Healthgrades and other physician review websites
• Hospital and clinic websites for doctor profiles

Referrals and Recommendations

• Consulting with primary care physicians
• Seeking advice from local support groups or bariatric patients

Initial Consultations

• Importance of meeting potential doctors in person
• Questions to ask during the first appointment

Top-Rated Bariatric Specialists in Colorado Springs

Dr. Khurram Khan

Overview

• Highest rated bariatric specialist with 4.7-star rating
• 19 patient reviews
• Specializes in Bariatric Surgery and other surgical procedures

Qualifications

• Fellowship at University of Tennessee, Memphis (2008)
• Residency at University of Illinois-Metro Group Hospitals (2007)
• Medical degree from Allama Iqbal Medical College, University Of Health Sciences Lahore (1999)

Practice Information

• Affiliated with UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central
• Offers various surgical specialties including Bariatric, Colorectal, and Robotic Surgery

Dr. Jeff Blixt

Overview

• 4.4-star rating based on 21 patient reviews
• Specializes in Bariatric Medicine

Qualifications

• Certified in Outpatient Treatment of Opiate Dependence (2008)
• Internship at Tempe St Lukes Hospital (1998)
• Medical degree from Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (1997)

Practice Information

• Affiliated with Centura Penrose Hospital
• Speaks English and Spanish
• Contact number: (719) 896-4794

Dr. Frank Chae

Overview

• 4.4-star rating based on 33 patient reviews
• Specializes in Bariatric Surgery

Qualifications

• Fellowship at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (2015)
• Multiple residencies including Meharry Medical College and New York Presbyterian Hospital
• Medical degree from University of Louisville School of Medicine (2008)

Practice Information

• Affiliated with multiple hospitals including Rose Medical Center and Sky Ridge Medical Center
• Board certified by the American Board of Surgery

Additional Resources for Finding Bariatric Doctors in Colorado Springs

Professional Organizations and Directories

American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS)

• Find a certified bariatric surgeon in Colorado Springs
• Access educational resources about bariatric procedures

Colorado Medical Society

• Search for board-certified bariatric specialists in the area
• Verify credentials and licensing information

Online Review Platforms and Healthcare Provider Databases

Healthgrades

• Comprehensive doctor profiles and patient reviews
• Compare doctors based on experience, education, and patient satisfaction

Colorado Springs Hospital Websites

• UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central
• Centura Penrose Hospital

Local Support Groups and Community Resources

Bariatric Support Groups

• Connect with patients who have undergone bariatric procedures
• Gain insights into local doctors and their outcomes

Colorado Springs Health Department

• Access information on obesity prevention programs
• Find resources for nutrition and weight management