LaparoscopicIncisionalHerniaRepair near Concord, NC

Biography: I was drawn to becoming a physician because a career in medicine offers the unique combination of science, problem-solving and helping others. I chose to focus on surgery because it can resolve illnesses. This is particularly true with bariatric (weight loss) surgery, which can cure or prevent complications from diseases like diabetes. Long-term studies have proven that bariatric surgery is the most effective and durable weight loss treatment, but each patient must be prepared to actively participate in a multidisciplinary program. This includes nutrition, behavioral and exercise counseling. Therefore, my team and I carefully screen each patient. Then we discuss your unique health situation and all the options with you so that we can make the best weight management decisions together. I have trained extensively to become a bariatric surgeon, including completing a fellowship in metabolic & bariatric surgery in 2022, after graduating from general surgery residency in 2021. However, learning is a lifelong journey, so I am continuously training in the latest techniques for minimally invasive laparoscopic, robotic and bariatric surgery. I am certified as a diplomate of the American Board of Medicine and recognized as a fellow of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons (ASMBS). I serve as the metabolic & bariatric surgery director at Forsyth Medical Center and co-founded its bariatric program. In addition to bariatric surgery, I also perform minimally invasive general surgery such as hernia, appendix, gallbladder and colon surgeries. I am an active member of Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) and American College of Surgeons. During my general surgery residency, I was recognized as the surgery intern of the year in 2017, surgery resident of the year in 2018 and chief resident of the year in 2021. In my free time, I enjoy swimming, pickleball and traveling with my wife and our 2 daughters.

Biography: Dr. Lauren McDowell-Jacobs, MD is a General Surgery Specialist who practices in Salisbury, NC. She is 56 years old and has been practicing for 30 years. Dr. Lauren McDowell-Jacobs, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Rowan Medical Center.

Biography: Dr. Natalie Nowak, DO is a General Surgery Specialist who practices in Charlotte, NC. She is 39 years old. Dr. Natalie Nowak, DO is affiliated with Novant Health Matthews Medical Center.