Business Details
Bariatric Surgery Excellence in Jacksonville, FL
New Life Surgical Associates has established itself as a premier destination for bariatric and robotic surgery in Jacksonville, Florida. With over two decades of specialized experience, our team led by Dr. Sunil Sharma, MD FACS, combines innovative techniques with personalized care to deliver transformative outcomes. We hold the prestigious MBSAQIP accreditation, reflecting our commitment to superior surgical standards and patient safety. Our comprehensive approach includes advanced procedures like gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and duodenal switch surgeries, alongside metabolic and hernia repair services.We prioritize patient education, utilizing modern technologies to ensure informed decision-making and active participation in treatment plans. Our state-of-the-art ambulatory surgical center offers both inpatient and outpatient services, supported by a multidisciplinary team of experts dedicated to optimizing pre- and post-operative care. Through continuous research contributions and international recognition, we maintain leadership in bariatric surgery while emphasizing ethical practices, transparency, and long-term patient well-being.
Services
Gastric Sleeve
Gastric Bypass
Duodenal Switch
Revision Bariatric Surgery
Hernia Repair
Highlights and features
- 20+ years of specialized experience in robotic and bariatric surgery
- MBSAQIP-accredited facility for superior surgical standards
- Personalized treatment plans with advanced hormonal optimization
- Pioneering narcotic-free surgical techniques for faster recovery
- Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care with multidisciplinary support
Associations and certifications
- MBSAQIP
What people say
Amazing staff
Successful outcomes
Compassionate care
Minimal pain
Life-changing results
Services
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
This restrictive weight-loss procedure removes 75% of the stomach to create a banana-shaped sleeve. By reducing stomach capacity and decreasing hunger hormone production, it promotes significant weight loss while preserving normal digestion. Patients typically experience 60-70% excess weight loss over 12-18 months with improved metabolic health markers.
Gastric Bypass
Combining restrictive and malabsorptive techniques, this procedure creates a small stomach pouch connected directly to the small intestine. Patients achieve 60-80% excess weight loss over 18 months while experiencing notable improvements in diabetes and hypertension. The laparoscopic approach minimizes recovery time and surgical risks.
Duodenal Switch
This two-stage procedure first performs a sleeve gastrectomy, then reroutes the small intestine to limit nutrient absorption. Patients typically achieve 70-80% excess weight loss with significant metabolic improvements. Requires careful nutritional monitoring due to malabsorptive component and lifelong vitamin supplementation.
Revision Bariatric Surgery
Addressing post-surgical complications or insufficient weight loss, this procedure modifies existing anatomy through conversion to different operations. Common revisions include band-to-sleeve conversions or sleeve-to-gastric bypass upgrades. Requires specialized expertise to manage scar tissue and altered anatomy.
Hernia Repair
Specialized repair techniques treat abdominal wall weaknesses using minimally invasive TAPP/TEP approaches. Synthetic mesh reinforcement strengthens weakened areas while preserving organ integrity. Patients benefit from reduced recurrence rates and faster recovery compared to traditional open repairs.
People
Dr. Sunil Sharma
Medical Director
Internationally recognized bariatric surgeon with 20+ years of experience pioneering robotic and minimally invasive techniques. Published author and speaker who has proctored 150+ surgeries and received multiple international awards for surgical innovation and patient care excellence.
Ashley Faulk
Director of Clinical Operations
Board-certified physician assistant overseeing clinical operations with specialized expertise in bariatric patient management. Coordinates comprehensive care programs and ensures adherence to MBSAQIP quality standards through continuous process improvement initiatives.
Olivia Churchill
Radiology Tech
Certified radiology technician providing diagnostic imaging support for pre-operative assessments and post-surgical monitoring. Implements advanced imaging protocols to ensure accurate anatomical evaluations while maintaining patient safety standards.
Tia Pope
Office Manager
Experienced healthcare administrator managing day-to-day operations and patient coordination. Implements efficient scheduling systems and maintains compliance with regulatory requirements to optimize patient experience and operational effectiveness.
Questions
What bariatric surgery options are available?
We offer gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, duodenal switch, and revision surgeries using advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques.
Does insurance cover weight loss surgery?
Most insurance plans cover medically necessary bariatric procedures. Our team assists with verification and pre-authorization processes.
What is the recovery timeline?
Most patients return home the same day and resume normal activities within 2-4 weeks, depending on procedure complexity and individual healing.
How is nutritional support provided?
Registered dietitians create personalized meal plans with lifelong vitamin supplementation guidance, especially for malabsorptive procedures.
What makes your center unique?
We combine MBSAQIP accreditation with 20+ years of surgical expertise, offering personalized care in a state-of-the-art ambulatory surgical center.
Can surgery help with diabetes?
Metabolic surgery significantly improves type 2 diabetes in 85% of patients, often leading to medication reduction or elimination.
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