Walker Byars, MD, FACS
Dr. Byars is a board-certified general surgeon known for combining exceptional surgical skills with a deeply personal, patient-centered approach. With 20 years of experience and a reputation for excellence in robotic surgery, he has become one of Mississippi’s most trusted and respected surgical leaders.
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Ranked in the 99th percentile among robotic surgeons nationwide and recognized as the top robotic general surgeon in Mississippi, Dr. Byars brings unmatched precision and innovation to every procedure. As the Medical Director of the Bariatric Program at Baptist Memorial Hospital, he is committed to transforming lives through safe, effective, and compassionate surgical care.
His Roots & Journey
Raised in Greenville, Mississippi, Dr. Byars grew up surrounded by community, hard work, and the values that continue to guide him. As a 9th grader, he would accompany his father on hospital rounds, observing patient care firsthand. While shadowing his father as he interacted with patients, Dr. Byars began to understand what it meant to truly care for people. He found himself drawn to the very same principles- compassion, honesty and respect.
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Before earning his white coat, Dr. Byars worked several positions throughout the hospital, including transport and lab technician. Each job offered a different perspective on patient experience and helped shape him into the well-rounded physician he is today.
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Dr. Byars graduated from Delta State University, earned his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine, and completed both his internship and general surgery residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.
Today, he proudly calls Oxford, MS home.
Values That Shape His Practice
Dr. Byars’ patients often describe him as steady, honest, and reassuring—someone who treats them like family. His professional values are the same values he lives by:
• Strong personal ethics – Every decision is rooted in honesty, integrity, and doing what is right for the patient.
• Patient-first care – He takes time to listen, educate, and guide each patient through their journey.
• Excellence in outcomes – Known for efficiency and consistently high success rates, he strives for the best possible result, every time.
• Lifelong relationships – He believes that trust is earned over time and loves building long-term connections with the people he cares for.
What Drives His Work
Dr. Byars believes surgery is more than just a procedure. Surgery is a chance to protect, restore, and improve a patient’s quality of life. This purpose fuels his commitment to continued innovation, advanced technique, and personalized care.
His leadership in bariatric surgery is especially meaningful to him. Helping patients reclaim their health, confidence, and future is one of the most rewarding parts of his profession.
Beyond the Operating Room
When he’s not caring for patients, Dr. Byars enjoys a quieter pace of life. He can often be found farming, hunting, or reading. He’s been known to pull the occasional prank, bringing a sense of humor and ease into the workplace.
Family remains at the center of his world. Dr. Byars has two adult children he is incredibly proud of.
Fun Facts About Dr. Byars
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Grew up in the Mississippi Delta and still loves the land and its traditions
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Has a mischievous side—his staff calls him “the office prankster”
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His loyal dog, Delta, is practically a clinic celebrity
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Finds peace in farming and the outdoors
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Known to bring humor into even the busiest clinic days
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Values meaningful conversations and long-term relationships with patients
A Personal Message From Dr. Byars
“To every patient who walks through my door, I want you to know this: you are not just a case, a diagnosis, or a chart. You’re a person with goals, fears, and a story that matters. My role is to guide you, support you, and give you the safest, highest-quality care possible.
Whether you’re preparing for a life-changing bariatric journey, facing a general surgery need, or simply looking for answers, I’m here to help you every step of the way. Thank you for trusting me with your care—it’s a privilege.”
— Dr. Byars