LaparoscopicInguinalHerniaRepair near Gastonia, NC

Biography: From a young age, I have been fascinated by science and the human body. This drove me to pursue a career in surgery, where I could use my interests to enhance the well-being of others. Throughout my journey, I've found immense joy in connecting with my patients and their families, understanding their unique perspectives and supporting their health. \n My approach to healthcare is patient-centered. I believe in thorough communication, ensuring that my patients are fully informed and empowered to make decisions about their health. \n As the only surgeon in Western North Carolina with specialized training in endocrine surgery, including procedures involving the thyroid, parathyroid and adrenal glands, I am dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care. By doing a high volume of these procedures and continuously refining my skills, I strive to minimize risks and optimize outcomes for my patients. \n Beyond the operating room, I enjoy pottery, gardening, and hiking - activities that Asheville is wonderful for. Since relocating to Asheville in 2018, I've embraced the vibrant community and its unique charm, which has helped me both personally and professionally.

Biography: While an unforeseen surgical need is never wanted, Christopher Hunter, MD, is happy to be there for his patients should they have one. He chose to become a surgeon because it gave him the opportunity to help others. Dr. Hunter enjoys abdominal surgeries, but especially loves being able to help his patients during surgical emergencies. He is passionate about identifying patients' problems, fixing them and helping them feel better. Dr. Hunter is thrilled to have found a work home at Novant Health Salem Surgical Associates. Married with two young sons, Dr. Hunter stays busy outside of work spending time with his family being outdoors and exploring Winston-Salem together.

Biography: Dr. Claudiu Cimpean, MD is a General Surgery Specialist who practices in Lexington, NC. He is 57 years old and has been practicing for 32 years. Dr. Claudiu Cimpean, MD is affiliated with Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center.

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.