Pamela RobertsA few months ago, a friend started experiencing abdominal pain that wouldn’t go away. They tried over-the-counter medicines and lifestyle tweaks, but nothing really helped.
Eventually, we realized it was time to see a professional. Because when your health is at stake, you need more than guesswork. You need a pro who knows exactly what they’re doing, from diagnosis up to recovery after an operation.
I did my research, and it took a bit of time. Luckily, I found some of the best general surgeons in Jacksonville. These are specialists you’d want on your side when surgery or serious care is necessary.
How much does a general surgical consultation cost in Jacksonville?
A general surgery consultation in Jacksonville typically costs $150 to $300 for an initial appointment, depending on the surgeon’s experience and the clinic’s facilities. Specific procedures vary in cost and are often partially or fully covered by insurance.
1. Kenneth W. Jones, MD (Asencion St. Vincent’s Riverside Hospital)
Address: 1004 Edgewood Ave W, FL 32208
Contact: +1 904 765 7774
Operating Hours: By appointment
When I started dealing with ongoing abdominal discomfort, I knew it was time to see a doctor. After doing some research, I decided to book a session with Dr. Kenneth W. Jones.
From that first appointment, it was clear that he takes a very thoughtful approach. During the consultation, he explained that he regularly uses minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and robotic-assisted techniques to treat different conditions.
I also learned that he is certified by the American Board of Surgery (General Surgery). This certification is highly regarded by fellow doctors, some of whom trust him enough to become his patients.
He also earned his medical degree from Weill Cornell Medical College, completed his residency at St. Barnabas Medical Center, and is currently affiliated with Asencion St. Vincent’s Riverside Hospital.
Many describe him as someone who brings compassion and deep expertise into the room, no matter how complicated or easy your case is.
One thing to keep in mind is that, because Dr. Jones is a well-regarded doctor and in high demand, appointment availability can be limited. You may need to book ahead or be flexible with scheduling, especially for non-urgent consultations.
I am healed, as well as left with full knowledge of my health situation
“I feel blessed to Have had the opportunity to be Dr. Jones‘s patient His treatment is thorough. His concern is genuine. He goes the extra mile every time. And I feel heard every time I have an issue. It doesn’t just get resolved, I am healed as well as left with full knowledge of my health situation. We need more doctors like this in all medical practices. They are so many physicians that can take a lesson from this man’s book. I completely and totally appreciate everything that he’s done for myself and my family…… Scratch that he is family in my book. Family doesn’t always have to be blood and that’s how I always felt like I was treated like family. Thank you so much Dr. Kenneth Jones😊🙏🏾 “ My Mentor Physician” I consult with him about everything medically. He is way more than five stars.!!!!!!!! And he has the best staff ever these women are phenomenal Thank all of you so much.”
– Paullette Williams, Google Review
I’ve found my office for any surgical needs
“I was looking for someone who would take the time with me to explain my medical issues and not look at just test results, but look at me as a real person seeking out opinions, advice and observations from his extensive surgical background and experience. I hand picked Dr. Jones after reading his bio, and all of his five star google reviews. Being a doctor myself, I read those carefully. Having had a private practice for twenty six years, I know difficult it is to earn a rating so high in this world of “in-and-out 5 minute medicine” that we see today. The office the staff was very friendly, personable and genuinely caring from the minute I walked in. I’ve found my office for any surgical needs if, and when, I need one. Thank you Dr.Jones, and staff, for a great visit.”
– Dr. David Eghigian, Google Review
2. Husain Abbas, MD (HCA Florida)
Address: 3627 University Blvd S Ste 700, FL 32216
Contact: +1 904 399 5678
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Dr. Husain Abbas stood out as a surgeon who has a very modern approach to care. He specializes in general and bariatric surgery, making him a strong option for patients dealing with complex abdominal concerns.
What really impressed me was the depth of training. He is a board-certified surgeon, fully trained in MIS, and works with a designated MBSQIP center. This already says a lot about the level of care he provides.
His experience spans a wide range of procedures—gastroesophageal disorders and anti-reflux surgery. He also accepts complex hernia repairs and even oncology procedures.
He also brings state-of-the-art surgical techniques designed to help patients recover faster, with less pain and fewer complications. It’s something patients truly value.
I also appreciate how accessible Dr. Abbas is. He offers telemedicine appointments, which are helpful to everyone. He also speaks English, French, and Arabic, making communication easier for a wider range of patients.
Unfortunately, Dr. Abbas does not specialize in highly specific surgical conditions (such as cardiac or pulmonary conditions).
Their knowledge, care, and follow-up are one of a kind
“Dr. Abbas and his team have been absolutely incredible. If you want honest, caring, compassionate, non judgmental healthcare, I truly recommend going to see him and the rest of his team. Their knowledge, care and follow up is one of a kind. Having surgery is a big deal and was anxiety inducing for me but their explanation of what to expect and reassurance really reduced my anxiety and nervousness. You will not regret having chosen Dr. abbas for your weight loss treatment and surgery. Forever thankful to have found him and the rest of his team for my care!! 💕”
– Ariell Crowley, Google Review
They treat me with kindness and respect every single time
“I want to sincerely thank Dr ABBAs and the entire office staff for exceptional care I’ve received throughout my bypass surgery journey and follow up visits. Dr ABBAs is not only highly skilled and knowledgeable, but also kind and attentive, always taking time to answer my questions and make sure l’m comfortable with every step.
The office staff is also wonderful professional, organized, and always welcoming. Every visit is a smooth and positive experience thanks to theirs decisions.
I’d like to give a special thanks to Tameka, Dr Olivia Levy, who always makes me feel genuinely cared for whenever I come in for appointment. Their warm personality, professionalism, and attention to detail truly stand out. They treat me with kindness and respect every single time, and that means the work to me.
If you’re looking for a medical team that combines expertise with true compassion, I highly recommend Dr ABBAs and his staff. 😊”
– Alice Frimpong, Google Review
3. Joseph Hartigan, MD (Baptist Health)
Address: 4205 Belfort Road, Suite 3030, FL 32216
Contact: +1 904 296 4141
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Dr. Joseph Hartigan is certified by the American Board of Surgery and specializes in general surgery.
Dr. Hartigan earned his medical degree from the University of South Florida, completed his residency at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, and is affiliated with Baptist Medical Center Beaches.
It is reassuring, given how nervous my mother was about going under the knife.
During the initial consultation, Dr. Hartigan took the time to thoroughly assess the condition, explain the recommendations, and answer all questions without making my mom feel tense.
The surgery itself went smoothly, and I loved how attentive Dr. Hartigan and his team were. They talked my mom through every step (from pre-op to post-op care), and made sure she understood what to expect.
True to what many previous patients have said, there were no complications during her healing process. Additionally, the recovery was faster than we expected.
One thing to remember: we had to wait quite a while before the initial consultation. So if you’re planning a visit, it’s best to book early.
Very thorough when explaining the hernia surgery process to me
“Dr. Hartigan performed my double hernia surgery on 2/21/18. I am back at work today and I feel great with the exception of the surgery site still being a little sore, which is to be expected as the surgery was performed only 5-days ago. When I first saw Dr. Hartigan he immediately diagnosed the problem and was very thorough when explaining the hernia surgery process to me. I could tell early on that he knew his stuff as he exuded confidence when explaining the procedure as well as the recovery process. I was kept well informed by his staff as well as the staff at St Vincent’s OR throughout and was very pleased with everyone involved with my surgical experience. Based on my experience, I would highly recommend Dr. Hartigan.”
– Lewis Keane, Google Review
The surgery was flawless
“I had a lumpectomy to remove breast cancer. I was so anxious about surgery. But, Dr. Hartigan took great care in explaining my surgery options, so I could make an informed decision. He answered all my questions and concerns about my procedure. The surgery was flawless. I feel like I will not need any follow up breast reconstruction at all. He did a great job preserving the breast, and was very careful in placement of any scars, and I had no complications with healing. I highly recommend Dr. Hartigan and his team.”
– Noreen D, Google Review
4. Steven Hodgett, MD (North Florida Surgeons)
Address: 836 Prudential Dr #1001, FL 32207
Contact: +1 904 398 0033
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Dr. Steven Hodgett is a widely respected surgeon known for his expertise in general and bariatric surgery.
He’s a board-certified general surgeon and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He also completed a clinical fellowship in Advanced Laparoscopic and Bariatric Surgery, demonstrating advanced training across all procedures.
He specializes in robotic, laparoscopic, bariatric, and complex hernia surgery. He combines technical skill with a patient-focused approach that many appreciate.
His team of nutritionists also receives high praise, helping patients prepare for surgery and navigate recovery for safer and smoother outcomes.
Dr. Hodgett is part of a highly skilled surgical team at Baptist Jacksonville, enabling coordinated care across multiple hospital settings.
My only gripe? Some clinic staff can be slow to assist, with reported waits of around an hour. Scheduling ahead can help make visits run more smoothly.
Nonetheless, clients still consistently highlight the thorough consultations, clear explanations, and careful follow-up planning. This makes the surgical journey more manageable and stress-free.
His team was also incredibly supportive
“Dr. Steven Hodgett is an outstanding surgeon. From the very first consultation, he was professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate. He took the time to explain every detail of the procedure and answered all my questions with patience and clarity. His team was also incredibly supportive and made me feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire process. The surgery went smoothly, and the recovery was faster than I expected. I highly recommend Dr. Hodgett to anyone looking for a skilled and trustworthy surgeon. Truly one of the best in Jacksonville!”
– Yarline Challenger, Google Review
I’ve been grateful to him for 9 1/2 years
“Dr. Hodgett performed my surgery 9 1/2 years ago and saved my life. I had a bowel obstruction and was in the hospital for almost the entire month of June 2015 and was finally able to get home after Dr. Hodgett corrected and resolved my problem.
Great bedside manner and I’ve been grateful to him for 9 1/2 years. I’m finally leaving this review as I was visiting a friend in the hospital today and had the pleasure of seeing Dr Hodgett. He was the doctor on call and I was able to thank him personally as well. I truly am forever grateful Dr. Hodgett!!! THANK YOU!!!!”
– Laura Hayes, Google Review
5. Matthew T. Smith, DO, FACS (GenSurgJax)
Address: 14540 Old St Augustine Rd #2571, FL 32258
Contact: +1 904 886 2251
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
When a friend had stomach issues that didn’t improve, we decided to seek out help, and that’s how we found Dr. Matthew Smith.
Dr. Smith graduated 5th in his class during medical school, which immediately impressed us. He’s also a board-certified surgeon with both excellence and practical expertise.
Before entering private practice, Dr. Smith served four years as an active-duty US Air Force general surgeon at Eglin Air Force Base. It also includes a combat deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Resolute Support and Freedom’s Sentinel.
That level of experience, especially under demanding conditions, speaks a lot about his skill and composure.
He’s also a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons, the North Florida Surgeons, and SAGES. This reflects his emphasis on learning and ongoing excellence.
I also like that patients praise him for his thorough explanations of procedures and what to expect, which makes a stressful time feel reassuring.
However, Dr. Smith can spend extra time with patients during consultations, which sometimes means longer waits for other appointments.
I am happy to report that I feel stronger than ever
“I am very grateful to have found Dr. Smith in my search to repair an inguinal hernia. He has a very calming and relatable demeanor. During the examination and explanation of procedure, he spoke plainly yet thoroughly of how the issue progresses to the need of repair, the method he would use to resolve the issue (robotic surgery), and what the recovery process would look like.
I don’t think I was his easiest patient — I subsequently was told that Dr. Smith had encountered an obstruction (diverticulum) which meant he would need to address this first in order to reach the hernia site. Dr. Smith did just that, and successfully completed the hernia repair.
In the follow up appointment, he warmly but sternly reiterated that I’d need to abstain from strength training and the big hikes I frequently embark on for at least 6 weeks — understanding that such would be difficult for me, as he correctly predicted that I’d be feeling much better in a short time while still far from being healed. 4 months later, I am happy to report that I feel stronger than ever. I couldn’t have asked for a better surgeon for whom to be under their care and guidance during this process. 10/10 would recommend — thank you Dr. Smith!”
– Matt Black, Google Review
If I need surgery again, he would be my choice
“I went into surgery for left hand groin hernia which was done robotically by Dr. Smith. I experienced very little pain. Two days after the surgery I felt great, and if it weren’t for the 3 entry points,I would never know that I had the surgery. I did have a prescription for pain meds but, I did not use them. His receptionist is very pleasant and very informative. Dr. Smith was also very professional and very informative, had a great bedside manner. He took time to explain the process and answered our questions. The staff involved in the surgery where very pleasant and were great at calming my nerves. I definitely would refer anyone to Dr. Smith . If I have need for surgery again, he would be my choice”
– Terry Reber, Google Review
