Roderick Tompkins Bariatric Surgeon MD, FACS

Dr. Tompkins is a native Kentuckian who began practicing in Ashland in 1997. He helped bring several surgical innovations to the area, including sentinel node biopsy, which has since become a standard for tracking the spread of cancer. As a general surgeon, he takes care of a wide range of patients, from those with cancer to emergency cases and more. Dr. Tompkins has been performing minimally invasive surgical weight loss procedures since 2003, and he was integral in starting KDMC's program. “When we committed to performing these procedures, we also committed to doing them laparoscopically, also known as minimally invasive surgery. It's better for the patient, with less recovery time. It's what our patients want, and we're proud to help so many people make a lasting change in their life. “Surgery is the major component of the program, but it can't suceed without the dietary and exercise support, and the emotional support our staff provides. The most successful Surgical Weight Loss patient is the one who follows the program all the way through - from pre-certifications to surgery and counseling and exercise. It's not about one surgery; it's about getting your life back.” Dr. Tompkins received his medical degree from the University of Louisville, Ky., in 1992. He completed his residency at the University of South Florida, Tampa, in 1997. He is board certified by the American Board of Surgery.