J. Michael Rothwell Bariatric Surgeon M.D.
12 yr Experience
3 yr in Bariatrics
12 yr in Laparoscopic Surgery
2 yr in Laparoscopic Bariatrics
50% Practice is Bariatrics
Min Age of Patient is 18
Max Age of Patient is 60
12 yr Experience
3 yr in Bariatrics
12 yr in Laparoscopic Surgery
2 yr in Laparoscopic Bariatrics
50% Practice is Bariatrics
Min Age of Patient is 18
Max Age of Patient is 60


I was most mpressed upon meeting Dr. Rothwell on my first visit. He was very through and answered all of my (many ) questions and understood my concerns. He was concerned about my overall health and my need for the surgery. He emphasised the risks aas well as all of the positive points about the surgery. Overall, I would have to rate Dr. Rothwell as a wonderful surgeon, kind , compassionate, understanding, and a Doctor who listens to his patients. I would definitely use Dr. Rothwell each and every time(God Forbid I have to have it again) I need a Surgeon.
The thing I like least about Dr. Rothwell is the fact that he is so busy now.. Sometimes I feel that I need more time with him to discuss some of the things which are currently problems to me...
I tell all of the referrals that I lead to Dr. Rothwell that he is there when you need him, but be certain to tell him what your problem is in a hurry before he goes out of the room. So far, None of my referrals haven't complained yet!

I have only met with Dr. Rothwell twice... the initial consult at his office, and later for an EDG at the hospital. All other interactions to this point have been with his office staff. Holly has been especially helpful, and extremely patient. I'm sure there have been days when she must have wanted to scream, given that I called them almost daily for one thing or another!
Dr. Rothwell and his nurse, Julie have both also had the surgery, which really raises my confidence level in them.
I was disappointed that things were delayed by 2 weeks because of the holidays, but I certainly understood why.

I found Dr. Rothwell and his staff to be very informative. I was very nervous about the surgery when I started to make inquiries. Dr. Rothwell answered all of my questions in a very up front manner. After my first visit, many of my fears were relieved and I felt that Dr. Rothwell would be the right surgeon for me. Through my surgery and recovery my impression of Dr. Rothwell and his staff has not changed.
The staff at Macon Surgical associates were very kind and welcoming. They all seemed to be very exited about the surgery along with being informative. They helped me with my insurance questions and all of my appointments with the recommended specialists. Everyone was very up front about the risks and possible complications that go along with the surgery. Aftercare and support group meetings are held in the highest regard by Dr. Rothwell and all of his staff. It is a vital part of the program's success.
I could not have asked for a better surgeon and team. I found his surgical competence, along with his bedside manner to be fantastic.
I would recommend Dr. Rothwell and his staff to anyone who might be considering WLS. I believe you will find them to be informative, kind, and very supportive.

He was very nice! His staff is great also. They require you to attend a seminar prior to surgery. I was very impressed.
POST-OP UPDATE: I can not say enough about this great group of folks! The office staff is amazing. All of them are very friendly and treat you like family. Dr Rothwell is the most wonderful doctor! Wonderful bedside manner and a highly intellegent provider! I would certainly recommend this group to anyone considering WLS!

I was really impressed with Dr. Rothwell. His compassion (due to his own weight battle) overwhelmed me. He was very straight with me about the risks and the benefits. A very thorough doctor! The staff was courteous and understanding... did not make me feel like a whale! They seem eager to help in any way and did all the foot work for me in getting the paper work done. So far I am very impressed. Any future patients should know that he shoots from the hip and tells it like it is, which scared me a bit until he informed me of all he would do to insure I'm a canidate for this procedure. He will expect you to follow the plan, for your own safety. Aftercare is VERY important... you are expected to keep two years worth of after care appointments and go to support meetings to ensure you the best outcome. Althought Dr. Rothwell was very plain about the risks, he put my mind at ease telling me a thorough investigation into my health, both physical and mental was necessary before he would agree to operate. My overall impression is good, but time should tell the rest of the story.

I got an appointment in 2 weeks. I couldn't believe it. I'm so excited. He's scheduling surgeries for about 4-6 weeks out. A lot to be said for looking outside of Atlanta. Best thing too is that Dr Rothwell had the surgery himself. Kelly is wonderful too. Very nice and willing to answer questions without rushing you off the phone.
I'll keep you all posted.
WOW! I met Dr. Rothwell and his staff today. GREAT bunch of folks. Dr. Rothwell was wonderful (well except for that Univ. of Tennessee shirt he had on). Having the surgery himself makes him very understanding about fears and hopes and just what we go through everyday.