Jaime Ponce MD, FACS, FASMBS

Dr. Jaime Ponce began his career in bariatric surgery in 1998 after completing his residency training at East Tennessee State University. In October 2000, he established a private practice bariatric surgery program at Hamilton Medical Center in Dalton, GA, and later in 2002 at Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga, TN, where he served as the Medical Director for both Bariatric Surgery and Obesity Medicine.
Under Dr. Ponce’s leadership, the program achieved Center of Excellence and full accreditation as a Comprehensive Center for Bariatric Surgery by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). His program was also recognized as one of the top 101 bariatric surgery programs in the country by Leapfrog.
Regarded as one of the most experienced bariatric surgeons both nationally and internationally, Dr. Ponce has held prestigious positions, including President of the ASMBS (2012-2013) and former President of the North America Chapter of the International Federation for Bariatric Surgery (2021-2024). He has led numerous FDA clinical trials for bariatric surgery devices and has received many accolades, including the Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award in Bariatric Surgery (2023). Dr. Ponce is double board certified by the American Board of Surgery with a designation in Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, as well as by the American Board of Obesity Medicine, in addition he is a member of the Editorial Board of the ASMBS Textbook of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.
Having treated and managed over 5,000 patients in Chattanooga, Dr. Ponce has a long track record of success and quality outcomes. His patients appreciate his passion for bariatric care and find him personable and approachable. He takes the time to thoroughly explain procedures and assists patients in making informed decisions based on their medical conditions.
Dr. Ponce has been featured in various TV shows and both local and national newspapers.