Published on Jan. 21, 2026
For individuals struggling with obesity, lasting weight loss often requires a comprehensive medical approach. The Surgical Weight Loss Program at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center offers a nationally recognized, highly structured path to weight loss, guiding patients from initial evaluation through long-term support.
Led by experienced bariatric specialists, the program is an Accredited Metabolic and Bariatric Surgical Center, recognized by both the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. This designation reflects MemorialCare’s commitment to compassionate, quality outcomes and comprehensive care.
“This accreditation ensures patients are treated within a program that meets the highest national standards,” said Atif Iqbal, M.D., medical director, Digestive Care Center, Orange Coast Medical Center. “Every step—from evaluation to surgery to long-term support—is intentional and evidence-based.”
Personalized Evaluation
The journey begins with a personalized evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment path. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, clinicians consider BMI, obesity-related conditions, prior weight loss efforts and readiness for lifestyle change.
Patients can start by completing a weight loss surgery assessment, requesting a consultation or attending a support group to learn more and connect with others.
“Our focus is helping patients make informed decisions,” Dr. Iqbal said. “Not everyone needs surgery right away, and for some, a combination of medical therapy, including GLP-1s and surgery delivers the best results.”
Preparation for Success
A key differentiator of MemorialCare’s Surgical Weight Loss Program is the level of preparation patients receive before surgery. Each patient is supported by a multidisciplinary team that includes bariatric surgeons, nurse navigators, registered dietitians and psychologists.
Patients participate in structured education and undergo comprehensive medical testing, psychological assessments and nutrition counseling. This preparation helps patients understand physical, emotional and behavioral changes required for long-term success.
MemorialCare physicians may include GLP-1 medications in care plans before or after surgery to support weight loss. Using GLP-1s prior to surgery can improve outcomes by making procedures safer and recovery smoother.
“When used appropriately, GLP-1 medications can complement surgery and lifestyle changes,” Dr. Iqbal said. “They are an important tool to support our patients’ long-term health. However, some patients reach a plateau even with GLP-1s and can’t move past it. In those cases, we often recommend surgical intervention alongside medication to help them achieve their goals.”
By supporting patients in reaching healthier weight loss with personalized care plans, Orange Coast Medical Center ensures that every step of the journey is optimized for long-term success.
Advanced Surgical Options & Lifelong Support
When surgery is recommended, procedures such as gastric sleeve and gastric bypass are typically performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. These approaches often result in less pain, shorter hospital stays — typically one day — and faster recovery. In addition, the program offers revision weight‑loss surgery to improve results from prior procedures and specializes in safe, laparoscopic Lap‑Band® removal with alternative surgical options tailored to each patient’s needs.
Orange Coast Medical Center’s bariatric surgeons have performed more than 12,500 weight loss surgeries, bringing a high level of expertise to every procedure.
“Experience matters,” Iqbal said. “Patients benefit from a team that performs these procedures routinely within an accredited environment.”
Long-Term Support That Extends Beyond the Operating Room
What truly distinguishes MemorialCare’s Surgical Weight Loss Program is its emphasis on long-term support. After surgery, patients continue working closely with their care team through regular follow-up visits, staged nutrition plans and ongoing support groups.
Patients have continued access to surgical weight loss support groups helping them adapt to new habits and stay connected to a supportive community. Physical activity guidance and lifelong monitoring are built into care, and adjunct therapies such as GLP-1 medications may be used when appropriate.
Many patients experience improvements in obesity-related conditions, increased energy and a renewed ability to enjoy daily activities and time with loved ones.
“Extensive and healthy weight loss is not a finish line — it’s a beginning,” Iqbal said. “Our program is designed to support patients for life and be there to help if there is any slippage.”
To learn more, visit The Surgical Weight Loss Program or call (714) 378-7622.