Introduction & Bariatric Expertise with Dr. Ellen Pekar
Recently, CHRIAS welcomed Dr. Ellen Pekar to the institute. She is a surgeon with extensive experience in a wide range of bariatric procedures and completed her residency training in Pennsylvania. Passionate about empowering patients and improving their health through safe, effective surgical care, Dr. Pekar joined Kemal Erkan for this episode of Bariatric Friday to share her background, experience, and insights into bariatric surgery.
Erkan started the session by asking what first drew her to surgery. Dr. Pekar explained that she has always enjoyed working with her hands, which naturally led her to a surgical career. During her residency, she discovered bariatric surgery and was inspired by the opportunity to form long-term relationships with patients. She emphasized that obesity remains unfairly stigmatized and said her goal as a surgeon is to help patients reclaim their health and confidence.
Dr. Pekar received comprehensive surgical training, completing five years of general surgery residency at WellSpan York Hospital and finishing at Reading Hospital. There, she gained broad experience in laparoscopic and robotic surgery techniques. At Reading Hospital, she also observed how a successful bariatric program operates and refined her skills in procedures such as gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and duodenal switch surgeries.
When asked what led her to join CHRIAS after residency, Dr. Pekar said she was looking for a collaborative, patient-centered environment where she could continue to grow as a surgeon. CHRIAS fit that vision perfectly. She noted that everyone has been welcoming and supportive and said she is excited to contribute to the team’s mission of helping patients succeed.
The discussion then turned to the misconception that bariatric surgery is a “quick fix.” Dr. Pekar stressed that surgery is not a magic solution but rather a powerful tool that works when paired with lasting lifestyle changes. “It’s really what you put into it,” she explained. She highlighted CHRIAS’s nutritional education classes, which she believes provide patients with a strong foundation for success before and after surgery.
When discussing how to choose the right procedure, Dr. Pekar described it as a collaborative process between surgeon and patient. Each individual’s goals and medical needs play a central role in decision-making. Some surgeries yield greater weight loss, while others are more effective for conditions such as diabetes or acid reflux. “We have an open discussion to determine what will work best,” she said. “It’s about finding the right balance between achieving results and addressing each patient’s specific concerns.”
As Dr. Pekar begins her journey with CHRIAS, she looks forward to building long-term relationships with her patients and helping them achieve lasting, healthy change.