NewFit Team.
Experience matters.
When considering bariatric surgery or non-surgical weight loss, experience and expertise matter. At Health First, our fellowship-trained bariatric surgeons and non-surgical weight loss advanced practice provider provide expert care and options designed to help patients achieve long-term success.
Our bariatric team in Brevard County combines leading-edge technology with compassionate, patient-centered care to support every step of your weight loss journey.
Health First's Viera Hospital is nationally accredited as a Level 1 facility by the American College of Surgeons and is also a nationally accredited Comprehensive Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP).
Meet our NewFit physicians and providers.
Nathan Allison, MD, FACS, is board-certified in general surgery and was the first physician to be fellowship-trained in robotic-assisted bariatric and general surgery in the state of Florida. Specializing in robotic-assisted general surgery and bariatric surgery, Dr. Allison performs adjustable gastric band, gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and revisional bariatric surgery. His general surgery practice also includes foregut surgery such as GERD/reflux surgery, hiatal hernia and para-esophageal hiatal hernia surgery, gallbladder, LINX implants, fundoplication surgery, Stretta endoscopic surgery, endoscopic treatment of Barrett’s esophagus, and diagnosis and management of esophageal and stomach disorders and surgical oncology.
Dr. Allison attended the University of Florida for undergraduate studies and went on to attend the University of Florida College of Medicine for medical school in Gainesville, Florida. He completed his internship, residency, and a fellowship in minimally-invasive surgery, endoscopic surgery, and robotic-assisted surgery—all at the University of Texas in Houston, Texas.
Medical School: University of Florida College of Medicine
Internship and Residency: University of Texas, Houston
Fellowship: University of Texas, Houston (Minimally Invasive Surgery, Endoscopic Surgery, Robotic-assisted Surgery)
My earliest memories of medicine come from growing up in a family of physicians, where I saw firsthand the dedication it takes to care for patients and support a community. That early exposure shaped my decision to pursue a career in healthcare and ultimately surgery, where I can combine the science of medicine with the hands-on problem solving I’ve always enjoyed.
I was drawn to medicine because it allows me to care for people during some of their most vulnerable moments. Whether a patient is facing a new diagnosis or considering surgery, I focus on providing clear information, thoughtful guidance, and reassurance throughout the process. My background in competitive tennis also influenced my approach—discipline, precision, and consistency are all important in both sports and surgical care.
In my practice, I treat each patient as an individual. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I take time to understand each patient’s symptoms, concerns, and goals, and I prioritize education so patients can make informed decisions about their treatment options. This is especially important in surgical care, where understanding risks, benefits, and recovery can help reduce anxiety and improve outcomes.
I understand that surgery can feel overwhelming. My goal is to make sure patients feel heard, informed, and supported every step of the way. I value building long-term relationships and approach each case with the same care I would give my own family.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and children, exercising, and being outdoors.
Medical School: Medical University of South Carolina
Residency: Novant - New Hanover REgional Medical Center
Fellowship: Virginia Tech School of Medicine, Carilion Clinic (Advanced GI & Bariatric Surgery)
My earliest experiences in medicine began as a young boy, living just up the street from a hospital. I would often ride my bike to the emergency room and talk with the doctors coming in and out. I was especially drawn to the surgeons, and I remember thinking even then that I wanted to be like them. That early exposure sparked a clear sense of direction that stayed with me as I grew older.
From that point on, I knew I wanted to become a surgeon. At age 16, I began working in the hospital transporting patients, which gave me an inside look at patient care and the pace of a clinical environment. Those experiences reinforced my commitment to medicine and helped me understand the responsibility that comes with caring for others.
In my practice, I am guided by a simple principle: do the right thing, even when it is difficult and even when no one is watching. I believe trust is at the center of the patient-physician relationship. I encourage patients to ask questions and be engaged in their care, and I take the time to ensure they feel informed and prepared. At the same time, I recognize that choosing surgery requires a high level of trust, and I take that responsibility seriously.
Over time, I have also come to appreciate aspects of medicine that extend beyond clinical training, including understanding how healthcare systems work and how to best advocate for patients within them.
Outside of work, I stay busy with my family. I enjoy spending time with my wife and three children, as well as reading and swimming.
Medical School: Georgetown School of Medicine
Internship and Residency: Duke University Medical Center
Fellowship: Duke University Medical Center (Cardiothoracic Research)
Kenneth Tieu, MD, FACS, FASMBS, is board-certified in general surgery and fellowship-trained in minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Tieu specializes in robotic-assisted general surgery and bariatric surgery, including adjustable gastric band, gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and revisional bariatric surgery. His general surgery practice also includes foregut surgery such as GERD/reflux surgery, hiatal hernia and para-esophageal hiatal hernia surgery, gallbladder, LINX implants, fundoplication surgery, HALO endoscopic treatment for reflux, endoscopic treatment of Barrett’s esophagus, and diagnosis and management of esophageal and stomach disorders and surgical oncology.
Dr. Tieu attended the University of California, San Diego in La Jolla, California for his undergraduate studies and Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine in Hershey, Pennsylvania for medical school. He completed his internship and residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas as well as a fellowship in minimally invasive surgery.
Medical School: The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine
Internship and Residency: University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Fellowship: University of Texas Science Center, Houston (Minimally Invasive Surgery, Endoscopic Surgery, Robotic-assisted Surgery)
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in medicine is that change often begins with an honest, compassionate conversation. Seeing a loved one finally break free from a long-time struggle — because a provider chose not to judge or give up — taught me the power of meeting people where they are and continuing to offer them a path forward.
I began my nursing career in the hospital setting, where it was a privilege to care for patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. Over time, I felt a growing pull toward prevention and long-term wellness, supporting people beyond the bedside and helping them build healthier lives. After earning both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing from South University in Savannah, Georgia, I have shaped my practice around personalized, whole-person care.
Nutrition and lifestyle medicine have always deeply interested me. My own health journey sparked a strong desire to understand how food and wellness intersect, and that passion continues to guide the way I support patients in making informed, practical choices.
I believe great care starts with listening, identifying real-world barriers, and working collaboratively to find solutions. Whether you're focused on weight loss, managing a chronic condition, or simply striving to feel better, I’m here to support you with compassion and clarity.
Outside of the clinic, I enjoy dancing and exploring new places with my husband and child.
Results matter.
| October 1, 2021, to September 30, 2022 | Gastric Bypass (includes primary and conversion) | Gastric Sleeve (includes primary and convrsion) | Revisions of Sleeve and Bypass | Gastric Band | Gastric Balloon |
| Total # of Surgeries | 192 | 159 | 87 | 0 | 2 |
| Mortality | 0 | 0 | 0 | N/A | 0 |
| Surgical Site Infections | 1 | 0 | 1 | N/A | N/A |
| Bleeding | 0 | 0 | 0 | N/A | N/A |
| Leaks | 0 | 0 | 0 | N/A | N/A |
| Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)/PE Issue | 0 | 0 | 0 | N/A | 0 |
| Average Hospital Stay | 2.16 Days | 1.42 Days | 1.76 Days | N/A | 0.73 Days |