Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # OC Surgeons: We are general surgeons, board certified by the American Board of Surgery and Fellows of the American College of Surgeons. ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://theocsurgeons.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [Bariatric Surgery: Your Path to Lasting Weight Loss and Better Health](https://theocsurgeons.com/bariatric-surgery-your-path-to-lasting-weight-loss-and-better-health/): If you feel trapped in a cycle of exhausting diets that don’t last, bariatric surgery offers a medically proven way to break free. Rather than a quick fix, weight-loss surgery is a powerful, life-changing tool designed to reset your metabolism and put you back in control of your health. - [Breast Surgery: Navigating Your Journey with Specialized, Compassionate Care](https://theocsurgeons.com/breast-surgery-navigating-your-journey-with-specialized-compassionate-care/): A diagnosis affecting breast health, whether benign or malignant, can be a deeply personal and overwhelming experience. At OC Surgeons, we approach breast surgery with a commitment to clinical excellence and emotional support. By shifting the focus from sick care to proactive, comprehensive wellness, we help our patients navigate their treatment plans with confidence and clarity.  - [Advances in Colorectal Surgery: A Path to Proactive Digestive Health](https://theocsurgeons.com/advances-in-colorectal-surgery-a-path-to-proactive-digestive-health/): Maintaining digestive health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, yet many patients feel hesitant when discussing conditions involving the lower gastrointestinal tract. At OC Surgeons, we believe that education and early intervention are the most powerful tools in modern medicine. When conservative treatments are no longer sufficient, colorectal surgery offers a path toward long-term relief and a return to an active, healthy lifestyle. - [Provider Spotlight: Excellence in Colorectal Care with Dr. Katherine Stern](https://theocsurgeons.com/provider-spotlight-excellence-in-colorectal-care-with-dr-katherine-stern/): At OC Surgeons, we pride ourselves on connecting our community with specialists who combine technical mastery with a deeply human approach to medicine. This month, we are proud to spotlight Dr. Katherine Stern, MD, a dual-board eligible surgeon specializing in General and Colorectal Surgery. Dr. Stern brings a wealth of academic rigor and a passion for patient-centered care to our practice, offering advanced surgical solutions for a wide range of complex conditions. - [Robotic Gallbladder Surgery at OC Surgeons: Precision, Comfort, and a Faster Recovery](https://theocsurgeons.com/robotic-gallbladder-surgery-at-oc-surgeons/): For patients, robotic gallbladder surgery at OC Surgeons translates into clear, real-world advantages: - [Carotid Artery Disease: Protecting Your Brain Health with Expert Care at OC Surgeons](https://theocsurgeons.com/carotid-artery-disease-protecting-your-brain-health-with-expert-care/): When people think about atherosclerosis, they often imagine clogged arteries in the chest. But there are two arteries in your neck, the carotid arteries, that are just as important. These vessels supply your brain with the blood and oxygen it needs to function. If they become narrowed or blocked, the consequences can be devastating. This condition, known as carotid artery disease, is one of the leading causes of stroke. - [Preventing Stroke: The Role of Carotid Artery Health](https://theocsurgeons.com/preventing-stroke-the-role-of-carotid-artery-health/): Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke. And while that number is staggering, what’s often left out of the conversation is this: many strokes are preventable, especially the kind caused by blockages in the carotid arteries. - [What Is Vascular Surgery? Understanding Procedures and Recovery](https://theocsurgeons.com/what-is-vascular-surgery-understanding-procedures-and-recovery/): If you’ve been told you may need vascular surgery, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. The word surgery can trigger anxiety, especially when it involves the arteries and veins—the vessels that carry life through your body. - [When Do Hemorrhoids Require Surgery? A Guide from OC Surgeons](https://theocsurgeons.com/when-do-hemorrhoids-require-surgery-a-guide-from-oc-surgeons/): Hemorrhoids are a common and often painful condition that affects millions of people. Whether it’s a dull ache, bleeding during bowel movements, or a persistent itch, hemorrhoids can interfere with your comfort and quality of life. - [What Is a Colectomy—And When Is It Needed?](https://theocsurgeons.com/what-is-a-colectomy-and-when-is-it-needed/): Your colon (large intestine) plays a major role in digestion and overall wellness. When disease or damage affects this vital organ, surgery called a colectomy—removal of all or part of the colon—may be the safest path back to health. - [Understanding Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA): Risk Factors You Should Not Ignore](https://theocsurgeons.com/understanding-abdominal-aortic-aneurysms-aaa-risk-factors-you-should-not-ignore/): Some health conditions creep in quietly. No warning, no pain—just silent changes happening inside your body. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms, or AAAs, are one of those conditions. - [What’s an Aneurysm? Early Signs and When to See a Specialist](https://theocsurgeons.com/whats-an-aneurysm-early-signs-and-when-to-see-a-specialist/): It’s one of those words you’ve probably heard before—maybe on the news or in a medical drama—but unless it’s touched your life or a loved one’s, it can feel distant. Quiet. Maybe even a little mysterious. - [Provider Spotlight: Dr. Rahul Sharma – Advancing Vascular Surgery with Compassion and Expertise](https://theocsurgeons.com/provider-spotlight-dr-rahul-sharma-advancing-vascular-surgery-with-compassion-and-expertise/): At OC Surgeons, we’re proud to spotlight physicians who not only bring advanced surgical skill and clinical knowledge to their work but also a deep commitment to patient care and community health. - [Your Legs Talk—Are You Listening? Recognizing Early Signs of Peripheral Arterial Disease](https://theocsurgeons.com/your-legs-talk-are-you-listening-recognizing-early-signs-of-peripheral-arterial-disease/): When your legs start to hurt during a walk, or your feet feel unusually cold, your body may be telling you something important. - [Tips for a Successful Appendectomy: Appendix   Removal Surgery](https://theocsurgeons.com/tips-for-a-successful-appendectomy-appendix-removal-surgery/): Colon and rectal surgical disorders are a significant concern for many people as they can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. - [Understanding Colon and Rectal Surgical Disorders](https://theocsurgeons.com/understanding-colon-and-rectal-surgical-disorders/): Colon and rectal surgical disorders are a significant concern for many people as they can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. - [Cholecystectomy: Understanding Gallbladder Removal Surgery](https://theocsurgeons.com/cholecystectomy-understanding-gallbladder-removal-surgery/): Cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder, is a common procedure performed to treat various gallbladder-related conditions. - [Understanding Ventral and Umbilical Hernia Repair: A Comprehensive Guide](https://theocsurgeons.com/understanding-ventral-and-umbilical-hernia-repair-a-comprehensive-guide/): Hernias can be a significant source of discomfort and health complications if left untreated. Ventral and umbilical hernias are common types of hernias that often - [Understanding Vascular & Endovascular Surgery: Expert Care at OC Surgeons](https://theocsurgeons.com/understanding-vascular-endovascular-surgery-expert-care-at-oc-surgeons/): When it comes to our health, we often think about our heart, lungs, and maybe even our bones. But how often do we consider the vessels that carry blood throughout our bodies? - [Varicose Veins: What are they and how to treat them](https://theocsurgeons.com/varicose-veins-what-are-they-and-how-to-treat-them/): Varicose veins are a common vascular condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite their prevalence, many people need to be made aware of the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available for varicose veins. ## Pages - [Accepted Insurances](https://theocsurgeons.com/accepted-insurances/): List of Accepted Insurances List of Accepted Insurances Monarch Optum IPA Regal IPA ADOC IPA Caremore IPA Mission Hospital Affiliates IPA Scan Healthplan Direct HMO St. Joseph’s Providence IPA MemorialCare Med Grp IPA Seoul Medical Group Greater Newport IPA Aetna PPO Blue Cross PPO Blue Shield PPO Cigna PPO Oscar PPO United HealthCare PPO UMR Medicare Healthnet PPO Humana Tricare West Tricare for Life - [SVS & OC Trauma Division Post-Op FAQs](https://theocsurgeons.com/svs-oc-trauma-division-post-op-faqs/): After surgery, you may have questions regarding what is expected and normal. The following is a list of frequently asked questions which will better prepare you for what to expect post operatively. - [SVS Disability FAQ](https://theocsurgeons.com/svs-disability-faq/): You can start by first registering for an account and then second creating a claim using this link here: https://portal.edd.ca.gov/WebApp/Login?resource_url=https%3A%2F%2Fportal.edd.ca.gov%2FWebApp%2FHomeTHERE IS NO CHARGE FOR EDD (STATE OF CA) FILINGS.  - [SVS Division FAQs](https://theocsurgeons.com/svs-division-faqs/): We thank you for choosing us as your surgeons to provide your care.  After surgery, you may have questions regarding what is expected and normal.  The following is a list of frequently asked questions that will better prepare you for what to expect post-operatively.   - [Robotic Surgery](https://theocsurgeons.com/robotic-surgery/): MD, FACS - [Endocrine Surgery](https://theocsurgeons.com/endocrine-surgery/): What are some different types of Endocrine Surgery? - [Bariatric Surgery](https://theocsurgeons.com/bariatric-surgery/): MD, FACS - [Our Surgeons](https://theocsurgeons.com/our-surgeons/): We look forward to meeting you. To make an appointment, please call us at (949) 457-7900 (Laguna Hills location), (949) 364-1007 (Mission Viejo location), Option 1 for Appointments or by clicking on a provider below to submit an appointment request. - [Our Surgeons](https://theocsurgeons.com/our-surgeons3/): We look forward to meeting you. To make an appointment, please call us at (949) 457-7900 option 1 or email us by clicking the button below. - [Wang Teng, MD](https://theocsurgeons.com/wang-teng/): Dr. Teng was raised in Southern California and completed his undergraduate degree, medical school and general surgery residency (15 years in all) at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center. Following this, he completed a fellowship in open surgical vascular and catheter-based endovascular surgery at the University of Utah Medical Center. - [Blog](https://theocsurgeons.com/blog/) - [SOC Post-Operative FAQs](https://theocsurgeons.com/soc-post-operative-faqs/): We thank you for choosing us as your surgeons to provide your care.  After surgery, you may have questions regarding what is expected and normal.  The following is a list of frequently asked questions that will better prepare you for what to expect post-operatively.   - [Patient Testimonials](https://theocsurgeons.com/patient-testimonials/): We take care of our patients just like a family member. Read the testimonials from our patients. - [Patient Forms & First Visits](https://theocsurgeons.com/patient-forms-first-visits/): Download SVS (Mission Viejo) Cancer Screening Questionnaire - [Our Saddleback Vascular Lab](https://theocsurgeons.com/our-saddleback-vascular-lab-2/): We Look Forward To Meeting You. To Make An Appointment, Please Call Us At (949) 457-7900 Option 1 Or Email Us By Clicking The Button Below. - [Our Saddleback Vascular Lab](https://theocsurgeons.com/our-saddleback-vascular-lab/): 24411 Health Center DriveSuite 380,Laguna Hills CA 92653 - [Varicose Vein Procedures](https://theocsurgeons.com/varicose-vein-procedures/): Varicose veins are large engorged veins that can feel like rope or cords under your skin. They can cause itching, swelling, redness and irritation. Varicose veins can occur in anyone and affect 35% of the US population. - [Stroke and Carotid artery disease](https://theocsurgeons.com/stroke-and-carotid-artery-disease/): A stroke can occur when blood flow is reduced or briefly blocked to the brain. This can result in brain tissue damage which affects neurologic functions such as speech or the ability to move. Stroke can happen by way of lack of blood or even bleeding into the brain. Almost 90% of strokes are a result of lack of flow or ischemia. - [Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)](https://theocsurgeons.com/peripheral-arterial-disease/): Peripheral arterial disease is a chronic disease of the arteries in the legs. PAD occurs over time by way of fatty deposits in your arteries known as atherosclerosis which can narrow the vessels over time. As this occurs you can experience a mismatch of supply and demand between oxygen delivery and the demand of your tissues. This may cause pain with walking known as claudication. If the disease should progress for a variety of reasons and risk factors, you may develop pain all the time or wounds that don’t heal (chronic limb threatening ischemia or CLTI). CLTI patients are at risk for amputation or even death from the effects of vascular disease. - [General Surgery](https://theocsurgeons.com/general-surgery/): A highly specialized field of medicine, surgery employs some of the most advanced medical techniques and tools and requires a superior level of skill, and fundamentally, a high degree of attention to detail. - [Dialysis](https://theocsurgeons.com/dialysis/): Dialysis is a treatment for cleansing your body of waste products, balancing electrolytes, and removing extra fluid in your body that would typically be taken care of by healthy kidneys. Usually, when the function of the kidneys is reduced to 85-90% of its normal function you will need dialysis. - [Colorectal Surgery](https://theocsurgeons.com/colorectal-surgery/): Colon and rectal surgery encompasses a wide range of conditions. These include colon and rectal cancer, anal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and anorectal disorders such as hemorrhoids, fissures and fistulas. These disorders are common, can feel isolating, and can have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life.  - [Breast Surgery](https://theocsurgeons.com/breast-surgery/): Doctors’ visits and unknown diagnoses can be quite stressful and require not only appropriate treatment but compassionate care. If you have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, we understand that this is a difficult time. - [Aneurysm](https://theocsurgeons.com/aneurysm/): An aneurysm is a dilation or expansion of a weakened blood vessel that may look like a bubble on a tire or a smooth balloon-like dilation. This happens most often in the abdominal aorta. 200,000 abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are diagnosed every year just in the United States. - [Contact](https://theocsurgeons.com/contact/): New parking instructions. Please allow extra time. - [Patient Information](https://theocsurgeons.com/patient-information/) - [Our Specialties](https://theocsurgeons.com/our-specialties/): We look forward to meeting you. To make an appointment, please call us at (949) 457-7900 (Laguna Hills location), (949) 364-1007 (Mission Viejo location), Option 1 for Appointments. - [About](https://theocsurgeons.com/about/) - [Home](https://theocsurgeons.com/): Dr. Ahmad Abou Abbass will be transitioning to City of Hope in Irvine and will no longer be practicing with OC Surgeons effective February 27, 2026. - [Sample Page](https://theocsurgeons.com/sample-page/): This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: