Our Team
Meet Dr. Lael Forbes
Founder and Medical Director, Forbes Precision Health
Dr. Lael E. Forbes, MD, FACS, FASMBS, is a board-certified surgeon and nationally recognized expert in metabolic and transformative medicine. As Founder and Medical Director of Forbes Health, she specializes in precision medical and surgical approaches to weight management, metabolic disease, and long-term health optimization.
With advanced training in minimally invasive and gastrointestinal surgery, Dr. Forbes integrates surgical techniques, GLP-1–based therapies, and personalized metabolic care to help patients achieve durable, life-changing results. Her approach combines scientific rigor with individualized treatment plans designed to restore metabolic health and support longevity.
At Forbes Health, Dr. Forbes works closely with each patient to deliver evidence-based care that transforms health from the inside out—helping patients achieve sustainable weight management, improved metabolic function, and lasting wellness.
Education, Accreditations and Employment
- Founder and Medical Director, Forbes Health and Forbes Weight Loss Center
NYC and Greenwich CT – (2024) - Attending Bariatric Surgeon, Lenox Hill Hospital Bariatric Surgery ACS Accredited Center of Excellence in Adult and Adolescent Bariatric Surgery
- Associate and Partner, Metropolitan Wellness Medical and Surgical Practice, NYC – (2018-2024)
- Associate Clinical Professor of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center – (2009-2017)
- Residency, General Surgery St. Luke’s /Roosevelt Hospital Center (1994-1999)
- Fellow in Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, Advanced G.I. Surgery and Bariatric Surgery, European Institute of Telesurgery (IRCAD) Université Louis Pasteur, Strasbourg, France – (2000-2002)
- Medical Doctor, Albert Einstein College of Medicine – (1994)
Our Philosophy of Care
Our Philosophy of Care
Medicine that listens, measures, and personalizes.
Every patient begins with an in-depth consultation and comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. We look beyond the scale to understand metabolism, hormones, body composition, and lifestyle, then create a fully individualized plan that may include medical therapy, surgery, nutrition, metabolic and hormone optimization, and ongoing clinical support. Our focus is not simply weight loss, but sustainable health and longevity.
Additional Services and Information
Insurance Advocacy
At Forbes Health, we don’t just provide expert medical and surgical care—we actively advocate for your insurance coverage. We verify benefits, review out-of-network options, and pursue every reimbursement opportunity to help reduce your out-of-pocket costs for surgery. We also specialize in navigating prescription approvals, appealing denials, and securing access to the medications you need. Visit our website to learn more.
Nutrition Counseling & Support
One-on-one nutrition counseling is a core part of Forbes Health’s comprehensive weight loss and management programs. Our licensed dieticians work closely with Dr. Forbes to create personalized, medically aligned nutrition plans. If interested, please visit the “Learn More” section of our website linked below to learn more about the importance of nutrition in every GLP-1 journey.
Psychological Counseling
At Forbes Health, we combine advanced metabolic care with dedicated psychological support to address the full mind-body impact of obesity. Led by Dr. Lael E. Forbes, we incorporate evidence-based strategies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, emotional eating support, and counseling alongside GLP-1 treatments to promote sustainable weight management and mental well-being.
Testimonials
"Everybody in her team has been amazing... It's been perfect."
— Grace M.
"I'm looking forward to the rest of my life, thanks to Dr. Forbes."
— Bela S.
"I would highly recommend her to anyone that is struggling with weight issues."
— Terry H.