Dr. Vittal Rao

Dr Rao is a consultant laparoscopic, upper GI, and bariatric surgeon, specialising in upper gastrointestinal (GI) and bariatric surgery for weight loss, including gastric sleeve and gastric bypass procedures. His practice also encompasses keyhole surgery for hernia and gallstones.

After earning his medical degree from the University of Kerala, Dr Rao held various posts in hospitals across India before relocating to the UK. His extensive experience led to his appointment as a Specialist Registrar in Upper GI in 2009, and he became a Consultant in 2013 at the University Hospital of North Midlands NHS Trust, a position he continues to hold today.

Already an expert in his field, Dr Rao remains dedicated to continued professional development, attending numerous courses to ensure his skillset remains current. Through exposure to the latest surgical techniques, he has acquired advanced skills in a range of procedures, greatly benefiting his patients. Dr Rao is a member of several professional organisations, including The British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society, and he is actively involved in medical research, having contributed to numerous articles and publications.

Dr Rao is also an Honorary Clinical Lecturer at Keele University and serves as a Regional Surgical Advisor and member of the Surgical Specialty Board for the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. Additionally, he is a faculty member for the laparoscopic courses at the Royal College of Surgeons of England, where he regularly teaches surgical trainees advanced laparoscopic skills. The broad range of experience he has gained in various healthcare environments throughout his career has shaped his clinical approach, with patient safety and wellbeing at its core.

Our surgeons are selected for their advanced skills and extensive experience in their respective fields. We never compromise on patient care. All our surgeons operate under practising privileges agreements and are registered with the General Medical Council (GMC), holding a Licence to Practise. They undergo annual appraisals and continue their professional development throughout their careers. Every five years, all doctors undergo the GMC revalidation process. They are granted Practising Privileges through our Clinical Governance and Compliance Committee and maintain their own professional indemnity insurance.

While our surgeons and clinical teams have performed thousands of procedures throughout their careers, they never forget that this may be your first. Our goal is to ensure that your experience is as positive as your outcome after treatment.