Dr. William J. Lee
A native of Iowa, Dr. William Lee completed his medical residency in Kalamazoo, Michigan, before relocating to Minnesota to begin his surgical career. A skilled general surgeon, Dr. Lee has also performed Lap-Band surgery since 2005 and is a strong believer in providing ongoing aftercare for his patients, including hosting regular support group meetings. Click the photo above to learn more about Dr. Lee’s background and how he marries the expertise of a “big city” surgeon with the personalized attention you get in a small town practice.
Dr. William Lee grew up in Des Moines, Iowa, and attended college at the University of South Dakota, where he received a full football scholarship. After graduation, he returned to his home state to attend medical school at the University of Iowa. He later completed his residency in Kalamazoo, Michigan, training at Borgess Hospital and Bronson Hospital through the program at Michigan State University.
“Originally, I was going to be a vascular surgeon, but I came back to Minnesota to be closer to my children. I was offered a fellowship in vascular surgery, but I turned it down to come back here,” says Dr. Lee. He notes that he was trained to be a “big city doctor,” able to take on the kinds of complex cases that are treated at large urban hospitals, but enjoys working as a rural general surgeon who handles a broad variety of cases.
“I continue to do complicated cases and to challenge myself and everybody around me,” says Dr. Lee.
In addition to his practice as a general surgeon, Dr. Lee completed training in bariatric surgery in 2005. He specializes in adjustable gastric banding, more commonly known as the Lap-Band procedure, and is one of the few doctors performing Lap-Band surgery in Minnesota.
Practice Areas & Medical Interests
General Surgery
Interests: LAP-BAND® and bariatric surgery
Education
University of Iowa – Iowa City, Iowa
Training
Kalamazoo Center for Medical Studies – Kalamazoo, Michigan
New York University – New York, New York
Certifications
Board Certified by the American Board of Surgery
Personal Interests
Chasing his kids, playing guitar and cooking
Personal Care Statement
“I was taught two very important things. One, do a good operation, and two, take care of your patients. The rest will fall into place. I treat patients the way I would want to be treated.”