Dr. Adolfo Z. Fernandez

The impact I have on my patients is what I enjoy most about being a weight loss surgeon. It is amazing that we can do an operation that not only helps a patient lose weight, but also fixes their diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol, along with giving them a better quality of life. There are a lot of options these days for people who are considering weight loss surgery. It’s important for patients to take into account each institution and what resources they have available. Duke is fully equipped to take care of complex cases in a safe manner. We have a multi-institutional team that’s been around the Triangle the longest and has the most experience. Almost every patient comes back after surgery and we see some of their previous medical conditions go away. That’s a good definition of success. Dr. Portenier is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in Sleeve Gastrectomy. His top areas of expertise are Obesity, Hernia, Short Bowel Syndrome, Gastric Bypass, and Sleeve Gastrectomy.

I care for patients seeking long-term, sustainable weight loss through advanced surgical options. As a bariatric and minimally invasive surgeon, I specialize in procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and revision surgeries. I also address related conditions like hernias, reflux, and metabolic disease. I’m passionate about supporting patients not just during surgery, but throughout their journey—before, during, and long after the procedure. I chose this field because I’ve seen how life-changing these interventions can be, both physically and emotionally. I take time to understand each patient’s goals, challenges, and lifestyle, and I work with them to build a path forward that’s realistic and durable. Outside of work, I enjoy travel, music, and time with friends, which helps me stay grounded and energized for the work I do. Dr. Meireles is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in Sleeve Gastrectomy. His top areas of expertise are Achalasia, Obesity, Hernia, Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Gastrectomy.

I came to Duke from Nebraska, where I was a medical director for two weight loss surgery programs. I decided to become a weight loss surgeon because it gives me the chance to establish a long-term relationship with my patients. For many patients, weight loss surgery often feels like a fresh start, since they are able to get rid of some of the health problems they may have acquired due to their weight and do certain activities they couldn’t do before. I get a thrill out of being able help patients start this “new life.” My approach to care involves listening to what the patient wants out of the surgery, educating them about various treatment options and performing a full evaluation. Then, I work with the patient to come up with a treatment plan that meets their physical and mental health needs. Dr. Sudan is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in Sleeve Gastrectomy. His top areas of expertise are Hernia, Obesity, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), Gastric Bypass, and Gastrectomy.