Sacramento Bariatric
The dedicated team of Sacramento Bariatric 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 8,000 patients, earning recognition as Sacramento’s top bariatric surgery program. 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, MD, FACS, FASMBS, DABS-FPDMBS, DABOM
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 holds current board certifications in both bariatric surgery (DABS-FPDMBS) and obesity medicine (DABOM). Dr. Machado was a contributing surgeon in the Nations Institute of Health landmark research study on bariatric surgery safety (LABS 1).
Since 2003, Dr. Machado directed the first accredited bariatric surgery program in the Sacramento region and has since led ongoing program development and certifications. She also developed the first outpatient bariatric surgery program in the Sacramento region.
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 Baur, MS, RDN
Lori Bauer, RDN, is a specialized dietitian with over 30 years of experience. She specialized in supporting patients on their weight-loss journey. She provides knowledge that translates into measurable goals for long-term success. She has received additional education in the support of bariatric surgical patients and their complex nutritional needs. Lori’s approach is warm, encouraging, and positive. She believes in meeting each patient exactly where they are and empowering them with practical education, evidence-based guidance, and ongoing support. Working with bariatric patients has been the highlight of her career and she is deeply committed to helping individual navigate each step towards improved health and well-being.
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. She is very experienced in the office setting and is here to support you on your health journey. Who doesn’t love a chocolate lab?