Weight-loss surgery is just one step in the process of achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Along the way, you'll also need to learn how to make healthy choices about food and exercise. Other weight-related health problems also may need to be addressed.
Torrance Memorial's Total Care Program provides bariatric surgery patients with a team approach to support a healthier lifestyle. You'll work with a dietician, psychologist, physical therapist, pharmacist and other specialists to help you get on track. Your surgeon and operating room nursing team dedicated to bariatric surgery will be with you every step of the way. On the nursing unit, you'll receive excellent care from our specially-trained bariatric nursing staff. And should you have any heart or lung issues, specialists in these fields will also provide their support and expertise to give you the best chance at success.
Physicians and Teams
Medical Director: Dr. Aileen Takahashi
Since 2007, Dr. Aileen Takahashi has served as the Medical Director of the Torrance Memorial bariatric Surgery Program. An experienced laparoscopic Bariatric surgeon, she guided the program to its successful designation as a Center of Excellence by Surgical Review Corporation and as a Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery by Blue Cross Blue Shield. Dr. Takahashi chairs the Bariatric Surgery Sub-Committee of the Department of Surgery at Torrance Memorial and is a practicing surgeon for the Association of South Bay Surgeons.
Meet the other physicians working with the Bariatric Surgery Program from the Association of South Bay Surgeons.
Bariatric Coordinator
Bariatric Surgery Program Coordinator: Martha Lopez, R.N.
For three years, Martha Lopez, R.N. has served as Program Coordinator of the Torrance Memorial Bariatric Surgery Program. As an experienced nurse in the management of bariatric surgery patients, Martha serves as the program liaison between the surgeons' offices and Torrance Memorial. For information on bariatric surgery or the Torrance Memorial program, Martha can be reached at 310-891-6735 or mlopez3@tmmc.com.
Support groups are an important part of your follow-up care. They're designed to help you before and after surgery to get accustomed to this lifestyle change.
Meet and listen to some of our proudest patients discuss their stories and how the Bariatric Surgery Program helped change their lives.
Come Meet Us and Learn More
Torrance Memorial offers classes & lectures and opportunities to meet with our bariatric staff to discuss your options. For information on Torrance Memorial's Bariatric Surgery Program, contact Martha Lopez at 310-891-6735 or mlopez3@tmmc.com.