SGMC Health welcomes general surgeon John Buchanan, MD, to its growing network of physician specialists. A South Georgia native, Dr. Buchanan returns home to provide comprehensive surgical care to patients across the region. With advanced training in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, he expands access to specialized surgical services close to home. 

Dr. Buchanan cares for patients with a wide range of surgical needs, including hernias, upper digestive tract disorders, liver and kidney disease, gastrointestinal conditions, breast disease, skin and soft tissue concerns, and emergency surgical conditions. While his practice encompasses the full breadth of general surgery, he has a particular interest in minimally invasive abdominal wall reconstruction and complex hernia surgery. His training includes laparoscopic and robotic procedures using the da Vinci Surgical System, offering patients advanced treatment options right here in South Georgia.

“Having grown up in South Georgia, returning home to raise my family has always been a priority for me,” said Dr. Buchanan. “I became a surgeon because I wanted to help people and make a meaningful difference in the community where I live and work. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve patients here and look forward to building relationships that last far beyond a single procedure or appointment.”

Dr. Buchanan earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia before receiving his Doctor of Medicine degree from Mercer University School of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency training at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, where he gained extensive experience treating a broad range of surgical conditions while developing expertise in advanced minimally invasive and robotic techniques.

In addition to his clinical interests, Dr. Buchanan is passionate about building strong relationships with his patients and their families. He believes trust and communication are among the most important parts of surgical care and strives to treat every patient as he would a member of his own family. Whether caring for a routine condition or a complex surgical case, his goal is to ensure patients feel informed, supported, and confident throughout their journey.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Buchanan enjoys spending time with his wife, Laurel, and their son, Jack. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys fishing, hunting, and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs whenever he gets the chance.

Dr. Buchanan will see patients at SGMC Surgery Suite, conveniently located inside the Professional Building on SGMC Health’s main campus at 2409 N. Patterson Street, Suite 200, in Valdosta. To learn more, visit sgmc.org.