Comprehensive Bariatric Surgery from a Johns Hopkins Fellowship-Trained Specialist
At Lalezari Surgical in Los Angeles, we specialize in a comprehensive variety of surgical weight loss options tailored to meet the individual needs of our patients. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Sepehr Lalezari, MD, FACS, a fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon from Johns Hopkins Medicine with over eight years of specialized experience, our clinic offers the most advanced bariatric procedures designed to help you achieve and maintain significant weight loss, improve your health, and enhance your quality of life.
Dr. Lalezari’s exceptional qualifications include board certification as a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), published research in peer-reviewed surgical journals, and recognition as a Los Angeles Magazine “Top Doctor” (2021-2024) and SUPERDOCTORS “Rising Star” (2023-2025). His unique expertise spans all major bariatric procedures, with specialized training in minimally invasive techniques and innovative approaches including ambulatory surgery protocols that he has pioneered and published in medical literature.
Our Comprehensive Surgical Weight Loss Procedures
Dr. Lalezari’s extensive training and experience encompass the full spectrum of bariatric surgery, from the most commonly performed procedures to complex, advanced operations reserved for specialized cases. His fellowship training at Johns Hopkins Medicine provided intensive exposure to all bariatric techniques, ensuring optimal patient selection and surgical execution.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve)
This procedure involves removing approximately 80% of the stomach, resulting in a tube-like structure that Dr. Lalezari has refined through extensive experience and published research. The reduced stomach size helps limit food intake and decreases hunger by reducing the hormone ghrelin production. Dr. Lalezari has pioneered ambulatory (same-day discharge) sleeve gastrectomy techniques, documented in his peer-reviewed publications, allowing for faster recovery and reduced healthcare costs while maintaining exceptional safety standards.
Key Advantages of Dr. Lalezari’s Sleeve Technique:
- Minimally invasive laparoscopic approach with 5 small incisions
- Same-day discharge option for appropriate candidates
- Excellent long-term weight loss outcomes (60-70% excess weight loss)
- Significant improvement in type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea
- Preservation of normal anatomy with no foreign objects or rerouting
Expected Outcomes: Patients typically lose 60-70% of excess body weight over 12-18 months, with significant improvement in obesity-related health conditions.
- Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB)
One of the most commonly performed bariatric surgeries, this procedure involves creating a small stomach pouch and bypassing a portion of the small intestine. Dr. Lalezari’s expertise in complex anastomotic techniques, developed during his Johns Hopkins training, ensures optimal surgical construction and long-term durability. This procedure not only restricts food intake but also reduces calorie absorption, promoting significant weight loss while offering excellent resolution of metabolic conditions.
Dr. Lalezari’s Advanced RYGB Technique:
- Precise pouch construction using advanced suturing techniques
- Optimal limb length selection based on individual patient factors
- Comprehensive leak testing and quality assurance protocols
- Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols for faster healing
Expected Outcomes: Patients typically lose 70-80% of excess body weight with excellent resolution of type 2 diabetes (80-90% remission rate), hypertension, and sleep apnea.
- Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band)
This procedure involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch and a narrow passage to the rest of the stomach. Dr. Lalezari’s meticulous surgical technique and comprehensive patient selection ensures optimal band placement and long-term success. This mechanism restricts food intake by making the patient feel full with smaller amounts of food, while the adjustability allows for personalized optimization over time.
Advantages of Dr. Lalezari’s Lap-Band Approach:
- Completely reversible procedure with no anatomical alteration
- Adjustable restriction for personalized weight loss optimization
- Lowest operative risk among bariatric procedures
- Preservation of normal stomach anatomy and function
- No malabsorption or vitamin deficiency risks
Expected Outcomes: Patients typically lose 40-50% of excess body weight over 12-24 months, with gradual, steady weight loss and excellent safety profile.
- SADI-S
The Single Anastomosis Duodenal-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy combines elements of the sleeve gastrectomy and the duodenal switch. Dr. Lalezari’s expertise in this advanced procedure includes creating a sleeve gastrectomy first and then bypassing a portion of the small intestine, which reduces calorie and nutrient absorption while enhancing weight loss outcomes. This procedure is ideal for patients with higher BMIs or severe metabolic conditions requiring maximum weight loss potential.
Technical Excellence in SADI-S:
- Precise sleeve construction with optimal staple line reinforcement
- Advanced anastomotic technique for single intestinal connection
- Optimal loop length selection for individual patient needs
- Comprehensive nutritional monitoring and supplementation protocols
Expected Outcomes: Patients typically achieve 70-85% excess weight loss with excellent metabolic improvements, particularly in diabetes resolution and lipid normalization.
- Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)
This complex procedure combines a sleeve gastrectomy with an intestinal bypass, representing the most technically challenging bariatric operation. Dr. Lalezari’s fellowship training and extensive experience with complex cases make him uniquely qualified to perform this procedure. It significantly restricts food intake and reduces the absorption of calories and nutrients, making it highly effective for long-term weight loss in patients with the highest BMIs or most severe metabolic conditions.
Advanced DS Technique Components:
- Precise sleeve gastrectomy with preservation of pyloric valve
- Complex two-anastomosis intestinal reconstruction
- Optimal limb length calculations for individual patient factors
- Comprehensive protein and micronutrient monitoring protocols
Expected Outcomes: Patients typically lose 75-90% of excess body weight with the highest rates of diabetes resolution and metabolic improvement among all bariatric procedures.
- Mini-Gastric Bypass (One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass)
This streamlined procedure involves creating a long, narrow gastric pouch and connecting it directly to the small intestine with a single anastomosis. Dr. Lalezari’s expertise in this technique offers patients the benefits of gastric bypass with a technically simpler procedure. It reduces stomach size and bypasses a portion of the small intestine, leading to decreased calorie absorption and significant weight loss.
Mini-Gastric Bypass Advantages:
- Single anastomosis reduces operative complexity and time
- Excellent weight loss outcomes comparable to traditional bypass
- Lower complication rates due to simplified construction
- Reversible procedure with restoration of normal anatomy possible
Expected Outcomes: Patients typically achieve 65-75% excess weight loss with excellent metabolic improvements and diabetes resolution rates.
Benefits of Surgical Weight Loss Under Expert Care
- Significant Weight Loss with Proven Outcomes
Dr. Lalezari’s surgical options are designed to help patients lose a substantial amount of weight, with his published research documenting excellent long-term outcomes. His procedures consistently achieve industry-leading results in reducing the risk of obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease.
- Improved Health Outcomes and Metabolic Resolution
Weight loss surgeries performed by Dr. Lalezari lead to improvement or complete resolution of many obesity-related comorbidities, enhancing overall health and quality of life. His experience includes:
- Type 2 diabetes remission rates of 70-90% depending on procedure type
- Hypertension improvement in 70-80% of patients
- Sleep apnea resolution in 60-90% of cases
- Significant improvement in cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- Enhanced mobility and reduced joint pain
- Long-Term Success with Comprehensive Support
With proper follow-up care and lifestyle changes, Dr. Lalezari’s bariatric surgery patients achieve long-term weight loss success and maintenance. His comprehensive program includes ongoing nutritional counseling, behavioral support, and medical monitoring to ensure sustained results.
- Advanced Minimally Invasive Techniques
Dr. Lalezari’s fellowship training and published research in minimally invasive techniques provide patients with:
- Reduced operative trauma and faster healing
- Shorter hospital stays and quicker return to normal activities
- Lower complication rates compared to open surgical approaches
- Improved cosmetic outcomes with small incisions
- Enhanced recovery protocols for optimal patient comfort
Why Choose Lalezari Surgical for Your Weight Loss Surgery?
- Exceptional Expertise and Training
Dr. Sepehr Lalezari is a highly skilled bariatric surgeon with extensive experience in minimally invasive techniques, bringing unique qualifications to Los Angeles patients:
- Fellowship training from Johns Hopkins Medicine, one of the world’s premier medical institutions
- Board certification as a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
- Over eight years of specialized bariatric surgery experience
- Published researcher with peer-reviewed articles in leading surgical journals
- Regular presenter at major bariatric surgery conferences (SAGES, ASMBS, ASCRS)
- Recognition and Professional Standing
- Los Angeles Magazine “Top Doctor” recognition (2021-2024)
- SUPERDOCTORS “Rising Star” awards (2023-2025)
- Member of prestigious surgical societies including SAGES and American College of Surgeons
- Instructor and educator with experience teaching at Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Comprehensive Care and Patient-Centered Approach
From initial consultation to long-term post-operative support, Dr. Lalezari’s team provides comprehensive care and guidance to ensure a smooth and successful weight loss journey. Our multidisciplinary approach includes:
- Registered dietitians for nutritional optimization
- Behavioral health specialists for psychological support
- Specialized nursing staff with bariatric expertise
- Long-term follow-up protocols for sustained success
- State-of-the-Art Technology and Facilities
Our clinic is equipped with the latest medical technology, enabling Dr. Lalezari to perform advanced minimally invasive procedures with:
- Reduced recovery times and minimal discomfort
- Enhanced safety through advanced monitoring systems
- Improved outcomes through precision surgical instruments
- Comprehensive diagnostic and follow-up capabilities
- Innovation and Research Leadership
Dr. Lalezari’s commitment to advancing bariatric surgery through research and innovation benefits all patients:
- Pioneer in ambulatory bariatric surgery techniques
- Published research on enhanced recovery protocols
- Continuous adoption of the latest surgical advances
- Evidence-based approach to patient care and surgical technique
Is Surgical Weight Loss Right for You?
Clinical Candidacy Criteria
Candidates for surgical weight loss under Dr. Lalezari’s care typically include individuals who meet established medical criteria:
Primary Indications:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher (severe obesity)
- Have a BMI of 35 or higher with serious obesity-related health conditions such as:
- Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes
- High blood pressure or hypertension
- Sleep apnea or breathing disorders
- High cholesterol or dyslipidemia
- Heart disease or cardiovascular risk factors
- Severe arthritis or joint problems
Lifestyle and Commitment Factors:
- Have tried and failed to achieve sustainable weight loss through diet and exercise alone
- Are committed to making the necessary lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss after surgery
- Understand the importance of long-term follow-up care and monitoring
- Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes and recovery
- Are psychologically prepared for the changes that come with significant weight loss
Comprehensive Pre-Operative Evaluation
Dr. Lalezari’s thorough evaluation process ensures optimal patient selection and surgical safety:
- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Comprehensive laboratory studies including nutritional assessment
- Psychological evaluation to assess readiness for surgery
- Nutritional counseling and dietary preparation
- Medical optimization of existing health conditions
- Insurance verification and financial counseling
Age and Health Considerations
While bariatric surgery can be appropriate for a wide range of patients, Dr. Lalezari carefully evaluates:
- Overall health status and surgical risk factors
- Presence of contraindications to surgery
- Ability to comply with post-operative requirements
- Support system and psychological readiness
- Individual goals and expectations
Advanced Surgical Techniques and Innovations
- Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Approach
Dr. Lalezari exclusively uses minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques for all bariatric procedures, providing patients with:
- 5-6 small incisions instead of large open incisions
- Reduced post-operative pain and faster recovery
- Lower risk of wound complications and hernias
- Improved cosmetic outcomes
- Shorter hospital stays
- Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Protocols
Dr. Lalezari implements advanced ERAS protocols based on his published research:
- Optimized pain management strategies
- Early mobilization and feeding protocols
- Reduced opioid dependence through multimodal pain control
- Faster return to normal activities
- Improved patient satisfaction and outcomes
- Same-Day Surgery Options
For appropriate candidates, Dr. Lalezari offers ambulatory surgery options:
- Same-day discharge for selected procedures
- Reduced healthcare costs without compromising safety
- Comfort of recovering at home
- Comprehensive discharge planning and support
- Quality Assurance and Safety Measures
- Comprehensive intraoperative leak testing
- Advanced hemostatic techniques to minimize bleeding
- Systematic approach to complication prevention
- Real-time monitoring of all vital parameters
- Immediate post-operative imaging when indicated
What to Expect: Your Surgical Journey
- Initial Consultation with Dr. Lalezari
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where Dr. Lalezari will:
- Review your complete medical history and weight loss attempts
- Perform a thorough physical examination
- Discuss all available surgical options and their benefits/risks
- Recommend the most appropriate procedure for your individual needs
- Answer all questions about the surgical process and recovery
- Pre-Operative Preparation Phase
- Complete medical clearance including cardiac and pulmonary evaluation
- Nutritional counseling and pre-operative diet initiation
- Psychological evaluation and preparation
- Insurance authorization and financial planning
- Pre-operative education classes and support group introduction
- Surgery Day Experience
- Arrival at our state-of-the-art surgical facility
- Pre-operative preparation and anesthesia consultation
- Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery with Dr. Lalezari
- Recovery in our specialized bariatric recovery unit
- Discharge home the same day or after overnight observation
- Post-Operative Care and Long-Term Support
- Progressive dietary advancement under dietitian guidance
- Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Lalezari
- Nutritional supplementation and monitoring
- Exercise and activity progression guidance
- Long-term weight and health monitoring
- Access to support groups and educational resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Lalezari's comprehensive evaluation considers your BMI, health conditions, eating patterns, and personal goals to recommend the most appropriate procedure for your individual circumstances.
While all surgery carries risks, Dr. Lalezari's extensive training and experience minimize complications. Specific risks vary by procedure and are thoroughly discussed during consultation.
Weight loss varies by procedure type and individual factors. Most patients lose 60-80% of excess weight over 12-24 months, with the most rapid loss in the first 6 months.
Most major insurance plans cover bariatric surgery when medical criteria are met. Our insurance specialists work with your provider to verify coverage and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Recovery varies by procedure, but most patients return to work in 1-2 weeks and resume full activities in 4-6 weeks. Dr. Lalezari's minimally invasive techniques optimize recovery time.
Some patients choose body contouring procedures after significant weight loss. Dr. Lalezari can provide referrals to qualified plastic surgeons when appropriate.
Take the First Step Towards a Healthier Life
If you’re considering surgical weight loss and want to learn more about your options under the care of Los Angeles’ most qualified bariatric surgeon, contact Lalezari Surgical today. Dr. Lalezari’s unique combination of fellowship training, extensive experience, and commitment to patient-centered care provides the foundation for successful long-term weight loss.
Why Choose Dr. Lalezari:
- Fellowship-trained at Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Board-certified FACS with 8+ years of specialized experience
- Published researcher in bariatric surgery techniques
- Los Angeles Magazine “Top Doctor” recognition
- Comprehensive facility with advanced technology
- Multidisciplinary team approach to patient care
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sepehr Lalezari to discuss your weight loss goals and determine the best surgical option for your individual needs. During your consultation, you will receive personalized attention from a true expert in bariatric surgery who is committed to helping you achieve lasting weight loss and improved health.
Contact Lalezari Surgical Today
Take the first step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life under the expert care of a fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and explore our advanced surgical weight loss solutions.
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. Always consult with Dr. Lalezari or a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance.
