After watching his patients and their success with the LAP-BAND® system, Dr. Smith chose to undergo LAP-BAND® surgery in 2002 to aid in his own personal weight loss. After losing 100 pounds himself, Dr. Smith was able to relate to patients and their everyday struggles. This knowledge has helped him develop one of the most comprehensive aftercare programs in North Texas. Dr. Smith has led the battle on many different fronts by standing up for the rights of the obese population.
In 2010, he was appointed as a spokesperson by the Obesity Action Coalition and Allergan as part of the Voice my C.H.O.I.C.E. campaign. This campaign gave Dr. Smith the opportunity to speak to congressional representatives about his experience with obesity, and the policy reform he would like to see. He continues to advocate for obesity by devoting some of this time as the President of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons for 2013. This honor helps Dr. Smith keep obesity and its related diseases in the forefront of discussions and policies amongst his peers. Dr. Smith has been a surgical trainer for Allergan’s LAP-BAND® system for years. He trained many surgeons from across the country, and now is a surgical trainer for the new iBand. Topics such as obesity, the LAP-BAND® system, as well as business and marketing techniques have been lectured internationally by Dr. Smith.