Lee Schmitt, MD

I have a date to get sleeved with Dr. Schmitt in Jan, I have already had a consultation. The insurance was the worst with requirements and waiting. I was hoping to have this done last year, but here we are

Seeing Dr. Lee Schmitt at Alabama WLS was the best decision I could have made. I’m only 2 months post-op but the changes are astounding and the surgery was a breeze. Don’t get me wrong, this isn’t an easy fix, you have to work at it every day, but it is so worth it. In my mid twenties, standing 5’8” tall, and weighing 313 lbs, I knew I needed to act. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me!

By far this was the best decision of my life. Only being a few days post op, I know I made the right decision! Dr. Lee Schmitt and his staff including the nice folks at OSE are amazing! I have never been more satisfied with the hospitality my family and I have been given. Recovery time has be great! Here's to the new me!

Updated on 23 Nov 2015:
I had went back and forth on the decision to have weight loss surgery (WLS) for several years. I had tried every diet and lost weight sometimes up to 50lbs, but I was never successful in keeping it off. I always gained back what I had lost plus 25lbs more.
Weighing in at 281lbs and 5'4 I needed a change. I finally made the decision to have WLS after our last family vacation. I couldn't keep up with my boys and husband at Amusement Parks, nor could I fit on most of the rides. I even was made to weigh before the staff would allow me to get on the water slides. Then suffered the humiliation of being turned away because I weighed to much. As I sat watching my family having a great time I knew it was time to make that step, and I did! After doing lots of research, I found Dr. Lee Schmitt at Alabama Weight Loss in Birmingham. After meeting with him, I began my weight loss journey. I also found out that once I reached my goal weight, or possibly even before, my co morbid conditions such as high blood pressure and sleep apnea would most likely be cured! I hope you enjoy my story, and I plan on posting more about my pre and post op experiences soon!

Like most that consider RNY Gastric bypass, I had tried every diet you could imagine and could not lose the weight. The main cause was I didn't have the will power to stick to it. I felt like when I dieted I was starving all the time! After going through all the procedures for insurance to cover my surgery, I finally had it done in June of 2004. I checked into the hospital weighing 382.2 and NO LIE when I left 2 days later I had already lost 20 lbs. I know, I know..that's not possible; but how can a scale lie? By the end of the 1st month, I had already lost around 40 lbs. I went from 382 to around 230 in about a year's time. The change was remarkable in my energy levels; BUT almost all of my hair did fall out due to the rapid changes in my body. I was told it was because my system was in shock from all the weight loss. It has grown back - but it was pretty thin there for a while. I am currently 235, I have had 4 children and am post breast aug. 3 months as of this post. I am looking to complete my extended TT or lower bodylift within the next year.

Updated on 6 Feb 2018:
I'm still following a low carb / paleo diet which I guess would be considered more primal. I have since started to incorporate a Kettlebell workout 3 times per week. My goals now are to build as much muscle as possible.

Amazing staff and dr lee Schmitt was awesome. 5 stars all away around
He is the best of the best
Love this doctor and his entire staff
Could not ask for better care from dr lee team. Showed me so much care and made sure I was ok. Everyday. All his nurses kept up.with me.and made sure I was not forgotten when the insurance kept me running around

Dr Scmitt has saved my life. I am 41 and was headed down hill fast. I injured my back about 3yrs ago and as a result I gained even more weight due to inactivity. I was around 520lbs 3 1/2 months ago and now I just hit 399 on my scale and planning on hitting 300 within the first year. Surgery isn't for everyone but it wasn't even a choice for me. I could probably die within 5yrs and leave wife with our 4yr old alone or have the surgery. Dr Schmitt and his staff are great. The surgery is a big change for someone that as all big people love to do but I'm cheap and saving money on my food bill more than replaces the happiness I got from eating. Plus I hope to be able to get my back fixed in another year because doctors won't touch because of my size. Then a new life begins, I can hopefully go back to work, roll around with my current and future kids, and help others like I've been helped. The surgery isn't a miracle but it's a good start on one. Dr Schmitt there isn't any words that can describe how thankful I am for you.

I am only 5 days post op from my VSG surgery. My husband took time to do much research on what surgeon and/or hospital to use. First of all St. Vincent East in Birmingham is by far the best hospital I have ever been to. The staff is so passionate and caring. They truly treat you as a patient which I have never experienced at this level at any other Hospital.

This review however is focusing on the surgeon, Dr. Schmitt. To put this as brief as possible. When Dr. Schmitt walks into your room it is all about you, not his time, not what he has to do next, it's about what you are going through, why your there, and your health. He sets the foundation for what a doctor truly should be. He treats you more like a friend or family member then a patient and talks to you with the most personable and down to earth demeanor.

He was the first to perform the VSG in the state of Alabama and brings that knowledge and experience. I just ask for anyone on here looking for a surgeon for Weight Loss surgery. Do the research, check out Dr. Schmitt's and/or Alabama WLS facebook page and check him out on review sites like Health Grades you will see that others feel the same.

Dr. Schmidt and his staff are wonderful with their help. Dr. Schmidt talked with me from the very beginning, giving me the pros and cons for surgery. He eased my mind on all issues. Even during surgery, he made me calm and took away all nervousness. After surgery he and his staff have taken care of all issues and concerns! Thank you Dr. Schmidt for everything you have done for me in giving me a new life!

I am currently 7 months post-op and I have lost 100 pounds. That alone should be enough for a 5 star rating! I not only have seen success from the surgery Dr. Schmitt provided, I have also received great personal care throughout the entire process. From the initial visit with him as my surgeon he explained in detail the process and follow up. I have never felt like I was in the dark about any part of the journey. When I had questions they were answered promptly. Dr. Schmitt feels more like a friend than a doctor. He truly cares about his patients.

Gastric bypass was the best decision I have ever made!
Starting weight: 280lbs
Lowest Weight: 132lbs
Current Weight: 155lbs
I would highly recommend Dr. Schmitt to anyone seeking a bariatric surgeon. He has compassion for his patients, and wants the best for them! Not to mention I am 5 years post op and am maintaining a 125 lb weight loss!