Ann O'Connor, MD

Meet Ann O'Connor, MD

Expert Pediatric Surgeon Leading Advanced Bariatric and Minimally Invasive Surgery for Children

Dr. Ann O’Connor is a board-certified pediatric and general surgeon practicing at CHRISTUS Children’s in San Antonio, where she brings more than 20 years of experience to the care of infants, children and adolescents. A nationally recognized leader in pediatric bariatric surgery and minimally invasive techniques, Dr. O’Connor joined CHRISTUS Children’s in 2022 to establish the region’s first adolescent metabolic and bariatric surgery program. Her goal: provide safe, comprehensive surgical care for children using the least invasive options available, improving health and quality of life for young patients and their families.

Career at a Glance

• Over 20 years of experience in pediatric and general surgery
• Medical Director, Adolescent Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program at CHRISTUS Children’s
• Dual board certifications: General Surgery & Pediatric Surgery
• Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine
• Previously served at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital (Chicago) and established expertise in Tucson, AZ

Clinical Role and Leadership

As Medical Director for the Adolescent Bariatric Program and Pediatric Trauma at CHRISTUS Children’s, Dr. O’Connor provides leadership to advance specialized surgical care for complex pediatric cases. Her program delivers multidisciplinary, family-centered solutions that integrate surgical expertise with nutrition, behavioral health, and long-term care planning.

She provides specialized care for conditions such as:

• Severe pediatric obesity requiring bariatric solutions
• Complex abdominal and gastrointestinal conditions
• Pediatric trauma and emergency surgical needs
• Congenital and acquired conditions requiring advanced surgery
• Bariatric and metabolic disorders in adolescents
• Thoracic surgeries in children
• Robotic and minimally invasive surgical procedures

What You Can Expect from Care with Dr. O’Connor

Compassion and clarity define Dr. O’Connor’s approach. She partners with families to ensure they understand all care options and what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Her multidisciplinary team approach means children receive whole-person care that prioritizes safety, long-term results, and emotional well-being.

You can expect:

• Customized surgical plans using the least invasive techniques suitable for your child’s condition
• Thorough education on procedures and recovery steps for both patients and caregivers
• Clear, honest communication and collaborative decision-making
• Personalized guidance for lifestyle and nutrition in bariatric care
• A supportive environment designed for young patients and their families

Advanced Surgical Innovation and Diagnostic Care

Dr. O’Connor uses cutting-edge surgical technologies, including laparoscopic and robotic techniques, to minimize recovery time and maximize patient safety. Her bariatric program follows the highest national standards for adolescent weight-loss surgery and integrates long-term follow-up for sustained success.

Research, Clinical Insight, and Thought Leadership

As an Associate Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. O’Connor contributes her expertise through academic leadership and clinical education. Her research and presentations focus on pediatric bariatrics, trauma surgery, and innovations in minimally invasive surgical care.

Commitment to Public Health and Health Equity

Dr. O’Connor champions access to life-changing surgical care for children and teens within underserved communities. By developing a comprehensive bariatric surgery program at CHRISTUS Children’s, she ensures equitable care pathways for families managing severe pediatric obesity.

Education and Certifications

Medical School: Rush Medical College, Rush University Medical Center

Residency: General Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin

Fellowship: Pediatric Surgery, The Ohio State University / Nationwide Children’s Hospital

Board Certifications:

• American Board of Surgery – General Surgery
• American Board of Surgery – Pediatric Surgery
• American Board of Obesity Medicine

Additional Degree: MBA, University of Massachusetts Amherst

In her spare time, Dr. O’Connor enjoys baking, cooking and feeding her family and friends. Other hobbies include CrossFit workouts and reading anything she can get her hands on. She is a super fan of the Chicago Blackhawks Hockey team and watches ice hockey every chance she gets.