Meet The LAPBAND Team
Experts in the LAPBAND
We are a uniquely chosen group of LAPBAND experts: comprised of physicians, surgeons, anesthesiologists, psychologists, nurses and personnel equipped and skilled to provide the latest and safest techniques and methods in weight loss surgery. (Learn more about Dr. Terry Simpson).
Anesthesia is important to weight loss surgery patients. We have a select group of anesthesiologists who have a special interest in this type of surgery. Many of our anesthesiologists are also cardiac anesthesiologists from Arizona Heart. There are different levels of skills for anesthesiologists—we handpick our anesthesiologists. We also have a number of psychologists who assist our patients.
Another important facet of our team is Surgical Specialty Hospital—a hospital owned by physicians, and dedicated to patients. The nursing care here is outstanding—and patients hate to leave. In fact, check out Phoenix Magazine and look for Surgical Specialty Hospital. Why this hospital? Because it has the most modern laparoscopic equipment in the Valley — better vision, safer surgery. Our team at Surgical Specialty Hospital has seen more LAPBAND patients than any in the valley (statistics from Allergan Health, the maker of The LAPBAND).
Our outpatient surgery center is an important component of our team. Many patients do not need a hospital, and prefer the small and quiet nature of our outpatient surgery center. Canyon Surgery Center is our preferred outpatient surgery center located on the west side, close to our office.
We are fortunate to have two great places for our patients — a great hospital – -At Surgical Specialty Hospital, and a great outpatient surgery center. Where you go will depend upon several factors to be discussed with your physician and health team. There are other places where we perform the band, but these are our preferred providers of your health care.
Key Members of the Team
Bariatric Coordinator: Greg
Greg knew Dr. Simpson when he worked in the operating rooms, and decided to come to work for him. Greg had sleep apnea, GERD, diabetes, and high blood pressure– all made worse with his excess weight. Greg underwent the LAPBAND procedure and now is an advocate for patients to get the procedure done.
Greg no longer takes any medication – the heartburn is gone, the sleep apnea is gone, and he no longer takes medicine for diabetes, and has eliminated medication for his high blood pressure. Greg is one of our very own LAPBAND success stories. “I could never be this active without having lost the weight.”
Greg’s job is to assist patients in getting through insurance issues, or if a patient is paying for their surgery out-of-pocket, Greg can assist in finding financing options.
Physician’s Assistant: Jamie
Jamie is the first assistant Dr Simpson has used for several years. 
Few people have seen more LAPBANDS placed than Jamie. He is an absolutely invaluable member of Dr. Simpson’s team. With more than 20 years of assisting physicians, Jamie is key in ensuring the entire operative experience is smooth for patients and medical staff.
In the Operating Room
Dr. Simpson’s Latest Addition to the Team
No, Dr. Simpson isn’t a obstetrician — this little cutie is his son, who joined the family in July of 2010.
