Business Details
25 Years
experience
Comprehensive Bariatric Surgery Solutions in Tustin
Founded in 2001 by Dr. Jeffrey Johnsrud and Dr. Sami Hamamji, Bariatric Care Center has established itself as a trusted provider of advanced weight-loss surgical solutions in Orange County. Our team of board-certified surgeons brings decades of combined experience in minimally invasive procedures, prioritizing patient-centered care and evidence-based practices. With specialized expertise in RNY Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Gastric Banding, we deliver comprehensive pre- and post-operative support tailored to individual health needs.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our state-of-the-art facilities at St. Joseph Hospital and our focus on addressing obesity-related comorbidities like diabetes and sleep apnea. We emphasize transparent communication, personalized treatment plans, and long-term patient success through multidisciplinary collaboration. As active members of the medical community, we stay at the forefront of bariatric advancements while maintaining ethical standards and patient safety as our highest priorities.
Services
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Gastric Banding
Weight Loss Surgery
Bariatric Consultations
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- Board-certified surgeons with over 20 years of combined experience in bariatric procedures
- Personalized treatment plans addressing individual health needs and comorbidities
- Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care programs for long-term success
- Advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques for reduced recovery times
- Multidisciplinary approach integrating medical, nutritional, and psychological support
Services
Gastric Bypass Surgery
RNY Gastric Bypass surgery creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes the small intestine to promote significant weight loss. This procedure is ideal for patients with BMI 40 or BMI 35 with comorbidities. Our surgeons use advanced laparoscopic techniques to minimize recovery time while ensuring long-term metabolic improvements and resolution of obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve Gastrectomy removes approximately 80% of the stomach to create a banana-shaped sleeve that limits food intake. Recommended for patients seeking permanent anatomical changes without intestinal rerouting. This procedure offers excellent weight loss results while preserving normal digestive processes, making it suitable for patients with complex medical histories or previous abdominal surgeries.
Gastric Banding
Laparoscopic Gastric Banding places an adjustable silicone band around the upper stomach to create a small pouch. This reversible procedure allows for gradual weight loss through portion control. Ideal for patients preferring non-invasive adjustments and minimal anatomical alterations, with regular follow-ups required to optimize band tightness and monitor progress.
People
Sami B. Hamamji, M.D.
Co-Founder & Bariatric Surgeon
Dr. Hamamji graduated from St. Joseph University in Beirut and completed his surgical residency at the University of Montreal. With over 20 years of experience in bariatric surgery, he specializes in minimally invasive techniques and patient-centered care. He believes in compassionate, evidence-based treatment approaches that prioritize long-term health outcomes.
Jeffrey M. Johnsrud, M.D.
Co-Founder & Surgical Director
Dr. Johnsrud earned his medical degree from the University of Southern California and has performed thousands of bariatric procedures since 2001. His expertise in laparoscopic surgery ensures minimal scarring and faster recovery times. He focuses on comprehensive patient education and personalized surgical planning to achieve optimal weight loss results.
Eric H. Pham, M.D.
Minimally Invasive Surgeon
Dr. Pham completed his surgical residency at Loma Linda University and a fellowship in advanced laparoscopic techniques at USC. He specializes in complex revisional bariatric procedures and metabolic surgery for diabetes management. His research on post-bariatric nutritional optimization has been presented at national surgical conferences.
Questions
What BMI qualifies for bariatric surgery?
Candidates typically have BMI ≥40 or BMI ≥35 with obesity-related health issues like diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.
What surgical options are available?
We offer RNY Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Adjustable Gastric Banding procedures tailored to individual health profiles.
How do I prepare for surgery?
Patients undergo comprehensive medical evaluations, nutritional counseling, and psychological assessments during our 3-6 month pre-operative program.
What post-operative support exists?
Our program includes lifelong follow-up appointments, support groups, dietary guidance, and exercise planning to ensure sustained success.
Does insurance cover weight-loss surgery?
Many major insurers cover bariatric procedures when medical necessity criteria are met. Our team assists with pre-authorization and documentation.
What are the risks involved?
Potential complications include nutritional deficiencies, dumping syndrome, and surgical site issues. Our surgeons discuss individual risk profiles during consultations.
