If you’re considering bariatric surgery, go see Dr. Amanda Pysher in Reston as soon as you can. She genuinely cares about her patients — she even gives you her personal cell number so you can reach out with questions or concerns anytime. Dr. Pysher has an impressive background, with a fellowship at Georgetown and surgical training at UVA. She performs robotic RNY and VSG procedures that are minimally invasive, and in many cases, can even be done outpatient. She’s young, confident, and incredibly skilled — exactly the kind of surgeon you want in your corner. One of her biggest strengths is that she’s an “insurance wrangler.” She knows exactly how to handle the paperwork and communication to make sure you get your approval, saving you a lot of stress. She also works with a great team — an excellent nutritionist, Leslie Flory, and a psychologist who’s highly experienced with bariatric evaluations. My case was complicated. During my robotic RNY, Dr. Pysher discovered unexpected anatomical abnormalities mid-surgery. What should have been a 60–90 minute procedure turned into a 6-hour operation. Instead of pushing through, she wisely set her ego aside, called in a colleague to assist, and transitioned to an open surgery. Thanks to her skill and teamwork, the surgery was a success — and less than six months later, my scar is barely noticeable. My GI doctor, who reviewed my entire surgical file, was extremely impressed with her technique and decisions. Another bonus? No two-week fast. She uses a method that doesn’t require liver shrinking, so you only have a 48-hour clear liquid diet pre-op, not the dreaded two-week fast. I’m 46 now and never imagined I could feel this healthy and confident. I can’t recommend Dr. Pysher enough — she truly changed my life.