Sentara Surgeon Offers Laparoscopy for Easier Recovery
"Minimally invasive surgery not only offers cosmetic advantages, but it means less pain and a faster recovery," says Robert L. Soares, M.D., a surgeon with Sentara Surgery Specialists in Williamsburg. "Typically, the chance of infection after laparoscopy is lower, which means it can be safer as well."
Dr. Soares received extra training in laparoscopy after completing his surgical training. He offers less invasive techniques to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Hernia repair
- Reflux (GERD) surgery
- Spleen removal
- Gallbladder removal
- Removal of benign or cancerous tumors
Sometimes, laparoscopic surgery isn't possible, or an open procedure might be a better option. Dr. Soares delivers the same high-quality results for his patients, no matter what type of surgery he provides.
Providing Patient-Centered Minimally Invasive Surgery
"I was the first person in my family to receive a higher education," says Dr. Soares, who was born and raised in Bermuda. "I chose medicine after working a summer job at a hospital in Florida, where we had moved when I was 17. I was a nurse's aide. I liked how medicine allowed me to help people and still be intellectually challenged."
Dr. Soares chose surgery as his specialty because he felt he could make a difference for patients. "Most patients in general surgery do well, even in emergency cases. They not only survive, they thrive," says Dr. Soares. "I liked that aspect and knowing I could make a positive impact in patients' lives."
"I don't approach surgery as though I'm on a factory line," says Dr. Soares. He looks at each patient as a whole person, not a condition to be corrected. "My patients never feel that I only care about their surgical problem. They see I care about them as a person."
Compassionate Surgical Care for Patients in Hampton Roads
Dr. Soares joined Sentara Surgery Specialists so he can deliver convenient, timely care to patients. Dr. Soares enjoys working with his surgical team. "The staff, particularly the nursing staff, are remarkably thorough and professional. I appreciate the high level of excellence because it means my patients receive the best care possible."
His support team includes his wife (who is a nurse), two daughters and a son. They recently relocated from Hilton Head. They enjoy boating and taking advantage of the nearby waterways. Dr. Soares plays soccer to stay active and fit. Extended family members live close by, making it easy to have impromptu get-togethers.
Background
Dr. Soares is board-certified by the American College of Surgeons and a member of the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons. He obtained an undergraduate and master's degree in biology and history from Brown University, then went to medical school at Washington University in St. Louis. He returned to Brown to complete his residency and fellowship training. Dr. Soares sees patients at Sentara Surgery Specialists, located at 500 Sentara Circle, Suite 202, Williamsburg, Va.