Your Success is Important to Us
The dedicated team of Sacramento Bariatrics has been transforming lives through comprehensive bariatric care since 2003. Led by founder and chief surgeon Dr. Laura Machado, our practice has proudly served over 5,000 patients, earning recognition as Sacramento’s top bariatric surgery center. Dr. Machado personally performs all recognized bariatric procedures and works directly with each patient to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Our multidisciplinary team brings together decades of specialized experience in bariatric surgery, nutrition counseling, and comprehensive patient support. We believe that successful weight loss surgery extends far beyond the operating room, which is why we provide lifetime support to every patient, offering monthly support groups, ongoing nutritional guidance, and long-term follow-up care. From your initial consultation through every milestone of your journey, our compassionate team is here to guide, support, and celebrate your achievements as you work toward lasting health and wellness.
About Our Team
Sacramento Bariatric is fortunate to have a dedicated group of professionals that truly care about the well-being of our patients. A few of our key staff members are highlighted below.
Sacramento’s Top Bariatric Surgeon
Laura L. Machado, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.S.M.B.S.
Dr. Machado is Sacramento’s only double board-certified obesity medicine and bariatric surgery specialist.
With a deep commitment to surgical care, Dr. Machado graduated with honors from California State University, Stanislaus (1990) and earned her Doctorate of Medicine from UC San Diego (1995). After completing her surgical residency at UC Davis (2000), she entered private practice performing Trauma and General Surgery. Specializing in advanced laparoscopic surgery, Dr. Machado received additional Laparoscopic Bariatric training at Montefiore Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery. She is a Fellow of both the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (FASMBS) and the American College of Surgeons (FACS), and participated in a National Institute of Health landmark research study on bariatric surgery outcomes (LABS 1).
Since 2003, Dr. Machado has served as Director of Bariatric Services at Mercy San Juan Medical Center, leading the program to numerous certifications. She also serves as Assistant Clinical Professor at California Northstate University College of Medicine, contributing to medical student education.
Julie Breton, Practice Manager
Julie is the Practice Manager for Sacramento Bariatric Medical Associates. Julie has over 30 years of experience in various areas of medicine, initially trained as a practical nurse in Canada. Julie manages the practice and staff that helps you navigate the process towards surgery. She is a great resource to assist you with the insurance process and serves as a consistent voice in our practice to cheer you on along the way to your health and weight loss goals. We are very happy she relocated to California but you will occasionally still catch her saying “Eh”.
Lori Bauer, Registered Dietitian
My name is Lori Bauer and I have been working as a Registered Dietitian for over 25 years. I graduated from San Jose State University in 1992 with my Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science, with a concentration in Dietetics. In the past 25 years, I have worked in clinical hospital settings, as well as private practices. My experience and specialties include Diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, weight loss, and Bariatric patients. I have a passion for helping my patients reach their nutrition and weight loss goals, allowing them to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Michelle Schnack, LCSW
Michelle Schnack brings over 10 years of experience in patient care as she helps our patients prepare emotionally for bariatric surgery and assist them in the postoperative phase. Michelle encourages patients to find ways to regulate emotions and behaviors, gain awareness and insight into their lives, and improve relationships. Michelle moderates our monthly support group meetings and is available to help patients at any phase of their care in our program. Just as important as our diet is our mindset towards our health.
Dottie, ESD (Emotional Support Dog)
Dottie, ESD (Emotional Support Dog)Dottie is the emotional support dog for Sacramento Bariatric and an integral part of our staff. Dottie may frequently be in the office setting to bring an extra smile or sometimes even a hug to you on the day of your visit. Who doesn’t love a chocolate lab?