Introduction & Bariatric Expertise with Dr. Donovan Hui

Recently, CHRIAS welcomed Dr. Donovan Hui to the center. He brings extensive clinical expertise in robotic abdominal wall reconstruction, complex primary and revisional foregut procedures, and comprehensive bariatric surgery. Dr. Hui completed his medical education in Chicago and his surgical residency in New York, gaining invaluable academic and clinical experience.

He joined Kemal Erkan for this episode of Bariatric Friday to discuss his background, philosophy of care, and vision for the future of bariatric surgery.

Erkan began the session by asking what first inspired him to become a surgeon. Dr. Hui shared that his mother initially advised him not to pursue medicine, and he first considered pediatrics because of the long-term relationships physicians build with their patients. That same continuity of care ultimately led him to surgery. During his rotations, he discovered the profound and immediate impact that surgery can have on patients’ lives. He was especially drawn to bariatric surgery because it combines surgical skill with ongoing patient connection—surgeons continue to support their patients years after the initial operation.

When asked about laparoscopic and robotic surgery, Dr. Hui explained that these minimally invasive techniques allow for greater precision and faster recovery. “We want to perform surgery in a way that’s very safe while helping patients recover more quickly from the start,” he said. These approaches typically allow patients to be up and about the same day, experience less pain, and gain independence sooner.

Discussing his approach to patient care, Dr. Hui emphasized empowerment and education. He believes in helping patients understand the root causes of their weight challenges and the reasons they want to change. “Surgery isn’t the end of the journey—it’s only the beginning,” he said. He also highlighted the multidisciplinary nature of bariatric care: “I’m just a small cog in the machine,” he noted, recognizing the critical roles of dietitians, psychologists, nurses, and other team members in long-term success.

Dr. Hui addressed common misconceptions about bariatric surgery—particularly the idea that it is an “easy way out.” In reality, it marks the beginning of a long, demanding process that requires sustained effort and follow-up. Patients often see him more than a dozen times throughout their journey.

Looking ahead, Dr. Hui discussed the future of bariatric surgery and the growing role of medications in treating obesity. While new drugs offer promising results, he emphasized that psychosocial, genetic, and environmental factors all play significant roles in obesity. “Surgery isn’t going anywhere,” he said. “If anything, we’re reaching more people and helping them understand their options. Every procedure we offer has been carefully vetted and proven to be safe.”

Beyond bariatrics, Dr. Hui also specializes in reflux disease and hiatal hernias. He explained that reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, which can cause inflammation and serious complications. “The stomach is designed to handle acid; the esophagus is not,” he said. Patients who see a surgeon for reflux have typically exhausted medication options, and surgery can help reduce the stomach’s ability to push acid upward—offering lasting relief and protection from damage.

As Dr. Hui begins his journey with CHRIAS, his surgical expertise and patient-centered philosophy further strengthen the institute’s commitment to helping patients achieve lasting, healthy change.