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Why Choose Ochsner Lafayette General For Bariatrics?
At Ochsner General & Bariatric Surgery we understand obesity is a disease, and we treat it as such. We offer you the best surgical weight loss program in Lafayette that combines skilled surgeons with a talented staff of bariatric specialists and patient care experts. Our team will treat you with the dignity and respect you deserve, while also offering support for the rest of your life. Let us help you change your life for the better – starting today.
From bariatric care and health education to lifelong guidance and support, our team has identified the essentials in establishing and maintaining a a healthy lifestyle. Visit our Bariatric Surgery: Lafayette webpage to learn about our bariatric offerings.
What makes us different?
Our holistic approach is a unique process that provides you with an individualized plan that focuses on the physical, mental and social factors affecting weight loss.
Our dynamic team of skilled surgeons work closely with a talented staff of bariatric specialists, counselors, nurses and nutritionists to help you reach and maintain health goals.
Our community of support extends beyond the operating room. Our team of coaches, patients and educators, you will have the support you need throughout your journey.
Our Process
Attend consultation with surgeon and bariatric team
Each candidate is required to have a personalized, one-on-one
consultation with our multidisciplinary bariatric team and surgeon.
This meeting provides you with an overview of post-op nutritional
concerns, sets both pre-op and post-op goals, educates you on the
surgical procedure, and establishes any required pre-op clearances
that may be needed.Establish financial obligation
Our financial counselor will work with you to identify financial obligations
and payment options for your weight loss surgery, which may include
insurance, cash pay or third-party financing. Together, you will determine
your method of payment.Schedule surgery
Once payment has been determined, clearances from primary care
physicians and specialists may be obtained. Our office will then schedule
a date for surgery.Attend pre-op education
Three weeks prior to your surgery date, you will be required to
attend class with the bariatric team. During this class you will
review all pre-op and post-op requirements, diets and expectations
If you want to lose weight but are unwilling (or unable) to undergo any medical procedures, our medically supervised weight loss program may be right for you. Our team of bariatric specialists have created a medically supervised program for people who may exceed the weight limit for surgery, do not have insurance to cover the cost of surgery or are interested in losing weight without surgery. This program is overseen by Benjamin Doga, MD.
Our entire team at Ochsner General & Bariatric Surgery is dedicated to helping you on your weight loss journey. Please feel free to contact us if you have questions about our weight loss program, need assistance with anything or would like to schedule a consultation. View this brochure or call us at 337-233-9900 for more information.
Meet The Team
Philip Gachassin, MD | Medical Director
Dr. Philip Gachassin practices bariatric surgery and general surgery at Ochsner Health. Dr. Gachassin is the medical director of metabolic and bariatric surgery at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center in Lafayette, Louisiana. Dr. Gachassin has been performing bariatric surgeries for more than 20 years and enjoys helping members of his community lead healthier lives. Dr. Gachassin received his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans and completed his residency at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in Mobile, Alabama.
Dennis Eschete, MD
Dennis Eschete, MD, has extensive experience in General and Bariatric Surgery with a focus on minimally invasive surgery. He is a fellowship trained surgeon specializing in complex laparoscopic techniques including a focus on hernia repairs and weight loss surgeries. Outside the operating room, he is a dedicated family man, finding his greatest joy in the moments spent with his loving wife and two wonderful children. He enjoys an active lifestyle including traveling and exploring new golf destinations with family. Balancing the intensity of a surgeon's career with the warmth of family life is the source of constant inspiration and fulfillment for him.
Robert Autin, MD
Robert L. Autin, MD, specializes in general and bariatric surgery at Ochsner Lafayette General in Lafayette, Louisiana. Dr. Autin earned his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in Shreveport, Louisiana, and he finished his surgical training at New York Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Autin also completed a fellowship in minimally invasive surgery in Albany, New York. As a Lafayette native, Dr. Autin enjoys giving back to the place hes always called home.
Benjamin Doga, MD
Benjamin Doga, MD, received his bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy from Northeast Louisiana prior to receiving his medical degree from Louisiana State University in Shreveport. He then went on to complete his residency at the University Medical Center in Lafayette, LA. He is certified as a diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine and is also board certified in Family Practice. Dr. Doga serves at the Medical Director of the Non-Surgical Weight Loss program at Ochsner General & Bariatric Surgery.
