Dr. Dexter G. Turnquest, MD

Dr. Dexter G. Turnquest General and Bariatric Surgeon

Dr. Dexter G. Turnquest is a board-certified general and bariatric surgeon providing surgical care for metabolic conditions, hernias, gallbladder disease, abdominal disorders, and other conditions requiring general surgery.

His clinical work includes bariatric and metabolic surgery, minimally invasive procedures, hernia repair, gallbladder removal, gastrointestinal surgery, and assessment of patients whose health conditions may be improved through surgical treatment.

Dr. Turnquest practises through Turnquest Surgical Solutions in the Greater Houston area. His current locations include Houston, Spring, and Conroe, Texas.

Patients may visit him after being referred by a primary care physician, endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, or another healthcare professional. His role may include reviewing the diagnosis, examining previous test results, discussing non-surgical care, explaining surgical options, and determining whether the likely benefits of an operation outweigh its risks.

Patients comparing Houston-area general surgeons may also read about Dr. David W. Gelber’s general surgery care.

Doctor Information

Name: Dr. Dexter G. Turnquest, MD, FACS
Specialty: General Surgery
Additional Specialty: Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery
Board Certification: American Board of Surgery
Additional Credential: Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine
Medical School: University of South Florida College of Medicine
Medical Degree Completed: 1989
Surgical Training: McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston
Practice: Turnquest Surgical Solutions
Primary Location: Houston, Texas
Additional Locations: Spring and Conroe, Texas
Hospital Affiliations: Current profiles include HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest, HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe, and Memorial Hermann facilities
Professional Designations: Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and Fellow of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
Academic Appointment: Adjunct clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M University School of Medicine, according to professional records
Languages Listed: English; Spanish-speaking office support is listed by Memorial Hermann
NPI Number: 1720081938
Accepting New Patients: Yes, according to current Memorial Hermann information
Telehealth: Availability should be confirmed directly with the practice

About Dr. Dexter G. Turnquest

Dr. Turnquest earned his medical degree from the University of South Florida College of Medicine in Tampa.

He later completed surgical residency and fellowship training through McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston.

General surgery education prepares physicians to diagnose and treat conditions involving the abdomen, digestive tract, gallbladder, skin, soft tissues, endocrine organs, and abdominal wall.

Dr. Turnquest continued developing a specialised practice in bariatric and metabolic surgery. This field involves operations that change the digestive system to improve serious health conditions associated with metabolic disease.

He has practised in Northwest Houston since 1996 and serves as managing director of Turnquest Surgical Solutions.

His professional work also includes leadership in organised medicine. Current records identify him as a member of the Texas Medical Association Board of Trustees and describe earlier leadership roles within the Harris County Medical Society.

General Surgery Services

Dr. Turnquest may evaluate and treat conditions involving:

• Abdominal hernias
• Inguinal hernias
• Umbilical hernias
• Ventral and incisional hernias
• Gallstones
• Gallbladder inflammation
• Appendicitis
• Abdominal pain requiring surgical assessment
• Skin and soft-tissue growths
• Digestive conditions requiring surgery
• Complications from earlier abdominal operations
• Conditions suitable for minimally invasive surgery

Not every consultation results in an operation.

Some patients may benefit from observation, medication, nutrition support, physical rehabilitation, or treatment from another specialist. Surgery is considered when it offers a reasonable medical benefit and when the patient can participate safely in preparation and recovery.

Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery

Bariatric surgery changes part of the stomach and, in some procedures, the small intestine.

The purpose is not simply to change appearance. These operations are medical treatments intended for selected patients whose metabolic or weight-related conditions create substantial health risks and have not improved sufficiently through appropriate non-surgical care.

Possible health concerns considered during evaluation may include:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Obstructive sleep apnoea
• High cholesterol
• Fatty liver disease
• Joint limitations
• Reduced mobility
• Cardiovascular risk
• Other metabolic complications

Eligibility depends on the patient’s complete medical condition rather than one number alone.

Dr. Turnquest may assess previous treatment, current health risks, medical readiness, surgical safety, and the patient’s ability to follow long-term nutritional and medical care.

Bariatric Surgery Is Not a Quick Procedure

Bariatric surgery requires continuing care before and after the operation.

A complete programme may involve:

• Medical assessment
• Nutrition evaluation
• Psychological or behavioural assessment
• Laboratory testing
• Sleep-apnoea evaluation
• Heart or lung testing when needed
• Review of previous treatment
• Education about surgical options
• Planning for long-term follow-up
• Vitamin and mineral monitoring

Patients need to understand that surgery changes the digestive system but does not replace ongoing medical care.

Long-term outcomes depend partly on attending follow-up appointments, taking prescribed supplements, completing laboratory testing, and reporting new symptoms.

Bariatric Surgery Consultation

During an initial consultation, Dr. Turnquest may review:

• Current medical conditions
• Previous treatment efforts
• Past abdominal operations
• Current prescriptions
• Diabetes control
• Blood pressure
• Sleep-related breathing conditions
• Liver health
• Digestive symptoms
• Eating patterns
• Previous complications from anaesthesia
• Personal treatment goals
• Available support during recovery

The consultation should help determine whether surgery is clinically suitable and which procedure may best fit the patient’s needs.

Patients should receive enough information to compare expected benefits, possible complications, lifestyle changes, alternatives, and long-term responsibilities.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy removes a large portion of the stomach and leaves a narrow stomach tube.

The procedure may reduce the amount of food the stomach can hold and change hormonal signals connected with appetite and metabolism.

It does not reroute the small intestine.

Dr. Turnquest may discuss sleeve gastrectomy with patients who meet medical criteria for metabolic surgery.

Possible benefits may include improvement in:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Sleep apnoea
• Metabolic health
• Physical function
• Other associated conditions

Possible concerns include reflux, bleeding, leakage, narrowing, nutritional deficiencies, and the need for additional treatment.

The operation is permanent because the removed part of the stomach cannot be restored.

Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass creates a small stomach pouch and connects it to a later section of the small intestine.

Food bypasses most of the stomach and the first part of the intestine.

This procedure may influence:

• Food intake
• Absorption
• Blood-glucose regulation
• Digestive hormones
• Metabolic health

Gastric bypass may be considered for selected patients with severe reflux, diabetes, or other clinical factors that make it preferable to another operation.

Possible complications include bleeding, leakage, ulcers, internal hernia, bowel obstruction, low blood sugar, and vitamin or mineral deficiencies.

Patients require lifelong attention to prescribed supplements and medical monitoring.

Revisional Bariatric Surgery

Some patients require assessment after an earlier bariatric operation.

Reasons may include:

• Continuing reflux
• Difficulty swallowing
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Nutritional complications
• A structural problem
• An inadequate medical response
• Complications involving a previous device
• Changes in the stomach or intestine over time

Revisional surgery may be more complex than a first operation because scar tissue and altered anatomy are already present.

Dr. Turnquest may review previous operative reports, endoscopy findings, imaging, laboratory results, and nutritional health before recommending further treatment.

A second operation is not automatically the best solution. The underlying cause needs to be identified first.

Metabolic Health Assessment

Metabolic health involves several connected systems, including blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol, liver function, and cardiovascular risk.

Before bariatric surgery, Dr. Turnquest may review:

• A1C
• Fasting blood glucose
• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol and triglycerides
• Liver tests
• Kidney function
• Sleep-apnoea status
• Current diabetes medicine
• Cardiovascular history

Patients with diabetes may need coordinated treatment from an endocrinologist such as Dr. Jeffrey S. Brown.

The purpose of treatment is to improve health, mobility, and long-term disease control rather than achieve a particular appearance.

Type 2 Diabetes and Metabolic Surgery

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not respond to insulin normally and may gradually stop producing enough insulin.

Metabolic surgery can improve glucose control in selected patients. Some people need less medication afterward, while others continue to need treatment.

The outcome depends on factors such as:

• Duration of diabetes
• Remaining insulin production
• Current glucose control
• Procedure type
• Other medical conditions
• Postoperative follow-up

Diabetes medicines often need adjustment around surgery because food intake and glucose patterns change.

Patients should not stop insulin or another prescribed treatment without instructions from the responsible medical team.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure commonly occurs alongside metabolic disease.

Before surgery, Dr. Turnquest may assess:

• Current readings
• Home blood-pressure records
• Prescription treatment
• Kidney function
• Heart history
• Medicine side effects

Blood-pressure medicine may require adjustment after surgery as health and fluid intake change.

Regular monitoring remains important because symptoms alone cannot show whether blood pressure is controlled.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Obstructive sleep apnoea causes repeated breathing interruptions during sleep.

Possible signs include:

• Loud snoring
• Witnessed breathing pauses
• Gasping during sleep
• Morning headaches
• Daytime sleepiness
• Poor concentration
• Difficult-to-control blood pressure

Patients with suspected sleep apnoea may need testing before surgery.

A diagnosed patient may be asked to bring a positive-airway-pressure device to the hospital and continue using it according to medical instructions.

Treating sleep apnoea can improve surgical safety and long-term cardiovascular health.

Fatty Liver Disease

Metabolic fatty liver disease develops when excess fat accumulates within liver cells.

It may occur alongside diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and other metabolic conditions.

Many patients have no obvious symptoms.

Preoperative assessment may include:

• Liver blood tests
• Ultrasound
• Review of alcohol exposure
• Medicine and supplement review
• Assessment of possible liver scarring

Advanced liver disease can affect surgical planning, bleeding risks, medication use, and anaesthesia.

Patients with abnormal liver findings may require evaluation from a gastroenterologist or liver specialist.

Nutrition Evaluation

Nutrition assessment is an essential part of bariatric care.

The purpose is to determine whether the patient can meet nutritional needs before and after surgery.

An evaluation may cover:

• Current eating patterns
• Food intolerances
• Vitamin use
• Protein intake
• Hydration
• Digestive symptoms
• Previous nutritional deficiencies
• Ability to follow postoperative stages
• Access to recommended foods and supplements

Patients should be honest about their routine and any difficulties following earlier plans.

The evaluation is intended to make treatment safer, not to judge the patient.

Psychological and Behavioural Assessment

Bariatric programmes may require a psychological or behavioural health evaluation.

This assessment may review:

• Understanding of the procedure
• Expectations
• Current mental health treatment
• Stress responses
• Eating-related behaviour
• Medication
• Available support
• Ability to follow long-term care

A mental health diagnosis does not automatically prevent surgery.

The purpose is to identify support that may help the patient prepare, recover, and respond to major changes after treatment.

Laboratory Testing Before Surgery

Preoperative testing may include:

• Complete blood count
• Kidney-function tests
• Liver tests
• Blood glucose
• A1C
• Thyroid testing
• Iron studies
• Vitamin B12
• Folate
• Vitamin D
• Calcium
• Other tests based on medical history

Deficiencies may need treatment before surgery.

Starting an operation with untreated anemia or a major vitamin deficiency can increase recovery problems and make postoperative monitoring more difficult.

Vitamin and Mineral Monitoring

Bariatric operations can reduce food intake and, in some procedures, nutrient absorption.

Patients may need prescribed supplements involving:

• Iron
• Vitamin B12
• Folate
• Calcium
• Vitamin D
• Thiamine
• Other vitamins or minerals

The exact plan depends on the operation and laboratory results.

Taking random supplements without medical guidance may provide too little of one nutrient and too much of another.

Regular blood testing helps identify deficiencies before they produce serious symptoms.

Long-Term Follow-Up

Bariatric follow-up should continue after the surgical wounds have healed.

Appointments may review:

• Medical conditions
• Medicine changes
• Blood glucose
• Blood pressure
• Digestive symptoms
• Hydration
• Nutritional intake
• Vitamin use
• Laboratory results
• Physical function
• New abdominal symptoms

Some complications can appear months or years after surgery.

Patients should tell future healthcare professionals which bariatric procedure they had because the altered anatomy can affect testing, medication, and treatment.

Gallbladder Disease

Dr. Turnquest also provides general surgical care for gallbladder conditions.

The gallbladder stores bile produced by the liver. Gallstones can block normal bile flow and cause pain or inflammation.

Possible symptoms include:

• Upper-right abdominal pain
• Pain after meals
• Pain extending toward the back or shoulder
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Abdominal tenderness
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Evaluation may involve blood tests and abdominal ultrasound.

Gallstones that do not cause symptoms may not require an operation. Repeated pain, inflammation, or complications may lead to a recommendation for gallbladder removal.

Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy removes the gallbladder through several small abdominal incisions.

A camera allows the surgeon to see the gallbladder and surrounding structures.

Potential advantages may include:

• Smaller incisions
• Shorter hospital stay
• Less postoperative discomfort
• Earlier movement
• Faster return to normal activity

Some operations need to be completed through a larger incision because of inflammation, scar tissue, bleeding, or unclear anatomy.

Removing the gallbladder does not stop the liver from producing bile.

Hernia Care

A hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a weakened area in the abdominal wall.

Possible symptoms include:

• A visible bulge
• Discomfort during lifting
• Pain while coughing
• Pressure while standing
• A pulling sensation
• Enlargement during physical activity
• Improvement while lying down

Dr. Turnquest may assess the hernia’s size, location, symptoms, and whether it can be gently reduced.

Some hernias can be monitored. Others require repair because they cause pain, continue enlarging, or have a higher risk of trapping tissue.

Inguinal Hernia

An inguinal hernia forms in the groin.

It may cause:

• A groin bulge
• Aching
• Burning
• Pressure
• Pain during lifting
• Discomfort after standing
• Scrotal swelling in some patients

Repair may be performed through an open incision or a minimally invasive approach.

The most suitable technique depends on whether the hernia is new or recurrent, whether both sides are affected, and whether previous abdominal operations have changed the anatomy.

Umbilical and Ventral Hernias

An umbilical hernia develops near the navel. A ventral hernia develops elsewhere in the abdominal wall.

Possible contributing factors include:

• Previous surgery
• Natural weakness
• Pregnancy-related stretching
• Repeated abdominal pressure
• Chronic coughing
• Earlier wound complications

Repair may involve closing the defect and reinforcing it with surgical mesh when appropriate.

Dr. Turnquest may explain the expected benefit, likelihood of recurrence, material used, and temporary lifting limits.

Incisional Hernia

An incisional hernia develops through or near the scar from an earlier abdominal operation.

It may appear months or years later.

Risk factors may include:

• Previous wound infection
• Several abdominal operations
• Poor tissue healing
• Diabetes
• Chronic coughing
• Repeated abdominal pressure

CT imaging may help show the size and location of the defect.

Complex or recurrent hernias may require a detailed reconstruction plan rather than a simple repair.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery uses a camera and specialised instruments placed through small incisions.

Depending on the diagnosis, Dr. Turnquest may use laparoscopic or robotic techniques.

Potential benefits may include:

• Smaller incisions
• Reduced postoperative discomfort
• Shorter hospital stay
• Earlier movement
• Faster return to daily activities

These advantages are not guaranteed.

Open surgery may be safer when a patient has extensive scar tissue, severe infection, unusual anatomy, uncontrolled bleeding, or a complex condition requiring wider access.

The planned method may also need to change during surgery if unexpected findings appear.

Robotic Surgery

Robotic-assisted surgery is a form of minimally invasive treatment.

The surgeon controls the instruments from a console. The system provides magnified viewing and allows precise movement through small incisions.

The robot does not perform the operation independently.

Robotic treatment may be considered for selected bariatric, hernia, or abdominal procedures depending on the surgeon’s assessment and the equipment available at the hospital.

Suitability depends on anatomy, previous surgery, diagnosis, medical health, and procedural complexity.

Risks of Bariatric and General Surgery

Every operation has possible risks.

Depending on the procedure, these may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Blood clots
• Anaesthesia complications
• Injury to nearby structures
• Leakage from a surgical connection
• Narrowing
• Bowel obstruction
• Hernia
• Nutritional deficiency
• Need for another procedure

The level of risk differs between patients.

Age, heart and lung health, diabetes, sleep apnoea, liver function, kidney function, previous operations, and current medicines can all affect surgical planning.

Dr. Turnquest may recommend additional testing or specialist clearance when a medical concern needs better control before surgery.

Preparing for Surgery

Preparation may involve:

• Laboratory testing
• Imaging
• Medication review
• Heart assessment when appropriate
• Sleep-apnoea evaluation
• Diabetes planning
• Anaesthesia assessment
• Treatment of active infection
• Instructions about food and drink
• Transportation arrangements
• Planning for help during recovery

Patients should provide complete information about:

• Prescription medicines
• Blood thinners
• Diabetes treatment
• Injectable metabolic medicines
• Vitamins and supplements
• Allergies
• Previous reactions to anaesthesia
• Earlier operations
• Current illness

Medicine should not be stopped unless the prescribing or surgical team provides specific instructions.

Recovery After Surgery

Recovery depends on the procedure, surgical approach, medical health, and whether complications were present before treatment.

Instructions may cover:

• Incision care
• Pain medicine
• Eating and drinking
• Hydration
• Walking
• Breathing exercises
• Lifting restrictions
• Driving
• Return to work
• Follow-up appointments

Early walking may be encouraged to support circulation and lung function.

Patients may begin feeling better before internal tissues have fully healed. Activity restrictions should still be followed for the recommended period.

Recovery After Bariatric Surgery

After metabolic surgery, patients usually progress through staged food and fluid instructions.

The plan may include:

• Clear liquids
• Other approved fluids
• Progression to soft foods
• Gradual introduction of suitable solid foods
• Prescribed protein goals
• Hydration targets
• Vitamin and mineral supplements

Patients should follow the programme provided by the surgical and nutrition teams rather than using a general online diet.

Eating progression depends on healing, procedure type, tolerance, and medical needs.

Persistent vomiting, difficulty drinking, worsening abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration should be reported to the medical team.

Medication Changes After Bariatric Surgery

Digestive changes can affect how some medicines are absorbed or tolerated.

Dr. Turnquest may coordinate with other physicians regarding:

• Diabetes medicine
• Blood pressure treatment
• Extended-release tablets
• Anti-inflammatory pain medicine
• Blood thinners
• Psychiatric medicine
• Thyroid medicine
• Other long-term prescriptions

Patients should not crush, stop, or replace a medicine without professional guidance.

A pharmacist or prescribing physician may need to review whether a different form or dose is appropriate.

Preparing for a Surgical Appointment

Patients can prepare by bringing:

• A current medicine list
• Previous operative reports
• Laboratory results
• Imaging reports
• Hospital discharge records
• Sleep-study results
• Diabetes records
• A list of allergies
• Insurance requirements
• Questions about treatment

It is helpful to explain:

• When symptoms began
• Which treatments have been attempted
• Whether previous surgery changed the anatomy
• Which medical conditions are currently controlled
• Whether daily activities are limited
• What the patient expects treatment to improve

For bariatric consultations, patients should also bring documentation of previous medically supervised treatment when required by their health plan.

Coordinated Surgical Care

General and bariatric surgery may require cooperation with:

• Primary care physicians
• Endocrinologists
• Cardiologists
• Gastroenterologists
• Pulmonologists
• Sleep medicine physicians
• Dietitians
• Behavioural health professionals
• Anaesthesiologists
• Physical therapists

Coordination helps address medical conditions that may affect surgical safety and long-term results.

Patients needing continuing primary care before or after surgery may also review Dr. Kyle L. Scarborough’s family medicine profile.

Medical Leadership and Professional Service

Dr. Turnquest has held leadership roles within organised medicine and Houston-area hospitals.

Current professional information identifies him as a Texas Medical Association Board of Trustees member. Memorial Hermann also notes leadership involvement with the Harris County Medical Society.

These roles may involve physician advocacy, professional standards, healthcare policy, and communication between medical organisations.

Leadership positions do not determine whether a particular operation is appropriate for an individual patient. Personal treatment decisions should remain based on diagnosis, risks, alternatives, and the patient’s goals.

Patient-Centered General and Bariatric Surgery

Dr. Turnquest provides surgical care based on each patient’s diagnosis, metabolic health, previous treatment, medical risks, test results, surgical history, and long-term needs.

His clinical work may include bariatric and metabolic procedures, revisional surgery, hernia repair, gallbladder surgery, minimally invasive treatment, and continuing postoperative care.

Patients should confirm current appointment availability, accepted insurance plans, hospital participation, procedural locations, telehealth availability, programme requirements, and referral arrangements directly with Turnquest Surgical Solutions.