Dr. Sepehr Lalezari, MD, FACS, brings over eight years of specialized bariatric surgery expertise to Los Angeles patients seeking transformative weight loss solutions. As a fellowship-trained surgeon from Johns Hopkins Medicine and founder of Lalezari Surgical Inc., Dr. Lalezari has pioneered ambulatory laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy techniques and published extensively in peer-reviewed surgical journals. His innovative approaches and recognition as a Los Angeles Magazine “Top Doctor” (2021-2024) and SUPERDOCTORS “Rising Star” (2023-2025) reflect his commitment to delivering exceptional patient outcomes through advanced minimally invasive techniques.
At Lalezari Surgical, we understand that sustainable weight loss requires more than surgery—it demands comprehensive care backed by proven expertise. Our practice combines cutting-edge surgical techniques with personalized treatment plans designed to address not just weight loss, but the resolution of obesity-related conditions including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease.
Our Bariatric Surgery & Weight Loss Services
- Surgical Weight Loss Procedures
- Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve) Our most popular procedure removes approximately 80% of the stomach, creating a smaller, banana-shaped sleeve. Dr. Lalezari’s extensive experience with ambulatory sleeve gastrectomy—documented in his published research—allows many patients to return home the same day with faster recovery times and reduced hospital costs.
- Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass This gold-standard procedure combines stomach reduction with intestinal rerouting, typically resulting in 60-80% excess weight loss. Dr. Lalezari’s expertise in managing complex bypass cases, including revisional surgeries, ensures optimal outcomes even for challenging patient presentations.
- SADI-S (Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass) An advanced procedure combining the benefits of sleeve gastrectomy with malabsorption, ideal for patients with higher BMIs or diabetes requiring maximum metabolic improvement.
- Lap-Band Surgery A reversible option using an adjustable gastric band to limit food intake, suitable for patients preferring a less permanent surgical solution.
- Duodenal Switch The most complex bariatric procedure, reserved for patients with BMIs over 50 or severe metabolic conditions requiring maximum weight loss and diabetes resolution.
- Revisional Bariatric Surgery
Dr. Lalezari’s fellowship training and published research in complex revisional procedures make him uniquely qualified to address:
- Inadequate weight loss from previous surgery
- Weight regain after initial success
- Complications from prior procedures
- Conversion between different surgical types
His expertise includes converting failed lap-bands to sleeve gastrectomy or bypass, addressing gastric bypass complications, and optimizing outcomes for patients requiring secondary interventions.
- Procedural Weight Loss (Non-Surgical)
For those seeking non-surgical alternatives, we offer advanced procedural weight loss treatments that provide significant results without major surgery. These minimally invasive procedures reduce stomach capacity or alter the digestive process to help you lose weight effectively with shorter recovery times and reduced risk compared to traditional surgery.
Available Non-Surgical Options:
- Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG): Reduces stomach capacity by up to 70% without surgical incisions
- Intragastric Balloon: Temporary solution with 6-12 month balloon placement for 20-40 pounds of weight loss
- Endoscopic Revision Procedures: Advanced techniques to optimize previous procedure results
- Medical Weight Loss
Our medical weight loss programs are personalized to your specific health profile and weight loss goals. Dr. Lalezari’s comprehensive approach combines his surgical expertise with non-invasive medical management to provide patients with multiple pathways to successful weight loss. These programs often include nutritional counseling, prescription weight loss medications, and lifestyle modification support, ensuring you receive the guidance and support necessary to achieve and maintain your weight loss.
Why Choose Dr. Lalezari for Bariatric Surgery?
- Proven Expertise and Training
- Fellowship-trained at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Bariatric and Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Board-certified Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
- Published researcher with 8+ peer-reviewed articles in leading surgical journals
- Regular presenter at major surgical conferences (SAGES, ASMBS, ASCRS)
- Innovation and Outcomes
- Pioneer in ambulatory bariatric surgery techniques
- Developer of novel surgical approaches (published research on ambulatory sleeve gastrectomy)
- Consistently recognized as “Top Doctor” by Los Angeles Magazine
- Member of prestigious surgical societies including SAGES and ACS
- Comprehensive Care Approach
- Dual locations: Downtown Los Angeles and Long Beach
- State-of-the-art surgical facilities
- Multidisciplinary team including nutritionists, psychologists, and nurse practitioners
- Long-term follow-up and support programs
Understanding Bariatric Surgery Candidates
- Clinical Criteria
Bariatric surgery may be appropriate for patients who meet the following criteria:
- BMI ≥ 40 (severe obesity)
- BMI ≥ 35 with significant obesity-related health conditions
- Previous unsuccessful attempts at non-surgical weight loss
- Commitment to long-term lifestyle changes
- Absence of uncontrolled psychiatric conditions or substance abuse
- Health Conditions That May Improve
Research demonstrates bariatric surgery’s effectiveness in improving or resolving:
- Type 2 diabetes (remission rates up to 80%)
- Hypertension (improvement in 70-80% of patients)
- Sleep apnea (resolution in 60-90% of cases)
- High cholesterol and triglycerides
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Joint pain and mobility issuesv
- Cardiovascular disease risk factors
The Lalezari Surgical Experience
- Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation including:
- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Review of previous weight loss attempts
- Discussion of surgical and non-surgical options
- Risk-benefit analysis specific to your health profile
- Insurance verification and financial counseling
- Preoperative Preparation
- Nutritional and psychological evaluations
- Required medical clearances
- Patient education classes
- Pre-surgical diet protocols
- Support group introduction
- Advanced Surgical Techniques
Dr. Lalezari employs the latest minimally invasive techniques including:
- Single-incision laparoscopic surgery when appropriate
- Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols
- Pain management innovations (documented research on IV-acetaminophen benefits)
- Same-day discharge options for appropriate candidates
- Postoperative Care and Support
- Comprehensive follow-up schedule
- Nutritional counseling and supplementation guidance
- Support group participation
- Long-term weight and health monitoring
- Revision surgery options if needed
Frequently Asked Questions About Bariatric Surgery
Weight loss varies by procedure type and individual factors. Typical outcomes include:
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: 50-70% excess weight loss
- Gastric Bypass: 60-80% excess weight loss
- SADI-S: 70-85% excess weight loss
- Duodenal Switch: 75-90% excess weight loss
Is bariatric surgery covered by insurance? Most major insurance plans cover bariatric surgery when medical criteria are met. Our insurance specialists work directly with your provider to verify coverage and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Recovery varies by procedure:
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: 1-2 weeks off work, 4-6 weeks full activity
- Gastric Bypass: 2-3 weeks off work, 6-8 weeks full activity
- Non-surgical procedures: 1-3 days minimal downtime
All surgical procedures carry risks. Dr. Lalezari's extensive training and experience minimize complications, with rates comparable to or better than national averages. Specific risks are discussed during consultation.
Some patients choose body contouring procedures after significant weight loss. Dr. Lalezari can provide referrals to qualified plastic surgeons when appropriate.
Bariatric surgery provides long-term weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes. Studies show maintenance of significant weight loss 10+ years after surgery in compliant patients.
Schedule Your Consultation
Transform your health and life with expert bariatric care from Dr. Sepehr Lalezari. Our Los Angeles and Long Beach locations offer convenient access to comprehensive weight loss solutions tailored to your individual needs.
Ready to begin your weight loss journey? Contact Lalezari Surgical today to schedule your consultation and discover how our expertise can help you achieve lasting weight loss and improved health.
Dr. Sepehr Lalezari is a board-certified bariatric surgeon with fellowship training from Johns Hopkins Medicine. Individual results may vary. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.
