Welcome to our exceptional team of dedicated health professionals at Medical Weight Solutions. Comprised of highly skilled and compassionate individuals, we are committed to providing personalised care and support to enhance your well-being.
With diverse expertise and a collaborative approach, we prioritise your health, creating a warm and inclusive environment where you can feel confident in your healthcare journey. Trust in our capable hands as we diligently work to help you achieve your health goals and enhance your quality of life.
Meet the team
Chaey Leem
Bariatric Physician
Chaey Leem is a NZ-trained medical graduate from the University of Otago. He has a strong passion for treating obesity and making a difference for his patients. Chaey started his journey as an obesity doctor by being inspired by experienced bariatric surgeons Mr Michael Booth and Mr Hisham Hammodat. He saw the life-changing effects of bariatric surgery on his patients and decided to continue down that pathway.
He is a SCOPE*-certified obesity doctor endorsed by the World Obesity Federation and an ANZMOSS recognised bariatric physician. He currently works at Surgical Weight Solutions, and at the local public bariatric clinic at North Shore Hospital. He also practises as a general practitioner at The Doctors Apollo.
Chaey provides a warm, non-judgemental treatment approach to obesity and its related complications. He will provide you with a well-rounded assessment and patient-centred treatment plan. He is prepared to discuss all aspects of obesity treatment with you, including lifestyle changes, behavioural changes/psychology, medications, and bariatric surgery.
*SCOPE = Strategic Centre for Obesity Professional Education
*ANZMOSS = Australian New Zealand Metabolic and Obesity Surgery Society
Ella Smits
Dietitian
Ella is a registered dietitian who currently works in private practice. She began her training at Massey University gaining a BSc in Human Nutrition and Sport and Exercise Science. Ella then moved to Perth to study a Postgraduate Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics at Curtin University of Technology.
Ella initially began her working life as a clinical dietitian for Albany Health Campus in Western Australia, she then moved to Melbourne where she was the sole dietitian working across two private hospitals and multiple aged care facilities. Within these roles Ella gained experience in a vast range of areas including surgical, gastroenterology, diabetes, oncology, critical care and general medicine. One of Ella’s most recent positions includes her role in Tauranga Hospital, in the Bay of Plenty, where she worked as an outpatient clinical lead dietitian (specialising in oncology and bariatrics). Ella brings her passion for promoting positive behaviour change within the area of bariatrics, using an evidenced based and person-centred approach.
Catherine Kissel
Psychologist
Catherine is a registered psychologist with a specialist interest in addictive behaviours and mental health. Catherine has most recently worked in Waitemata DHB mental health and addictions services in a clinical leadership role. She has lectured in clinical courses at AUT and the University of Auckland and maintains a position as an external examiner with the university.
Catherine has worked with our sister clinic ‘Surgical Weight Solutions’ since 2005. She regularly attends conferences, updating her knowledge base and maintains international contacts in the field.
Catherine is available for support and consultation throughout the process of weight loss, from the time of deciding to have medical/surgical treatment through to troubleshooting in the future. This includes initial assessment/support prior to beginning your weight-loss journey, support during weight loss/post-surgery, and at the phase of weight maintenance. Catherine is looking forward to meeting you to achieve your goals and guide you through the transition phase into durable long-term weight loss.
Heather Bae
Practice Nurse Manager
Heather is a registered nurse with a kind, caring, patient-centred approach to her patients. Heather started her career as a practice nurse at a GP practice, moving onto urgent care nursing at Shorecare. She is a proud mother of two young boys and enjoys spending time with them. Heather will make sure that you are well supported at Medical Weight Solutions and ensure that your journey is a seamless process. She is also available for Saxenda education over zoom or offline at our clinic site.