Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery in Bogotá – A Life-Changing Solution
As a bariatric surgeon in Bogotá, I have had the privilege of helping countless patients transform their lives through bariatric weight loss surgery. Obesity is a complex disease that affects not only physical health but also emotional well-being and overall quality of life. Many of my patients come to me after years of struggling with diets, exercise, and medical treatments that have failed to produce lasting results. For them, and perhaps for you, bariatric surgery can be the key to regaining control of their health.
My approach to bariatric weight loss surgery is rooted in science, but my goal is always human: to guide each patient toward a healthier, longer, and more fulfilling life. Whether you are considering a gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, or another surgical option, understanding the process, benefits, and long-term commitment involved is essential. In this article, I will explain everything you need to know about these procedures, how they work, and what to expect before and after surgery. If you’re looking for an effective and safe solution for weight loss, I invite you to keep reading. This might be the first step toward the change you’ve been waiting for.
What Is Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery?
Obesity is a chronic and multifactorial disease that increases the risk of serious conditions. When lifestyle modifications and medical treatments are not enough to achieve sustainable weight loss, bariatric weight loss surgery becomes a powerful tool to improve both health and quality of life. But what exactly does it involve?
Understanding Bariatric Procedures
Bariatric surgery refers to a set of surgical techniques designed to reduce the stomach’s capacity and, in some cases, modify the digestive system’s anatomy to limit food intake and improve metabolic regulation. These procedures are not merely cosmetic solutions; they are evidence-based medical interventions with long-term benefits for weight control and overall health.
There are different types of bariatric weight loss surgery, each with its own indications and mechanisms of action. The most common include:
Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
This procedure involves removing approximately 75-80% of the stomach, leaving a tubular structure that restricts food intake and reduces hunger hormones such as ghrelin.
Mini Gastric Bypass
A variation of the traditional bypass, this procedure involves a simpler surgical technique with similar metabolic benefits.
Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass)
In this surgery, a small stomach pouch is created and connected directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the digestive tract. T
Each of these options has specific advantages, and the choice of procedure depends on the patient’s medical history, body mass index (BMI), and health goals.
How Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Works
The success of bariatric weight loss surgery is based on a combination of mechanical and hormonal changes that help patients lose weight and maintain long-term results.
Restriction of Food Intake
By reducing the stomach’s size, patients feel full with much smaller portions, which naturally decreases caloric consumption.
Hormonal Regulation
Bariatric procedures influence hormones involved in hunger and satiety, such as ghrelin, leptin, and insulin. This helps control appetite and improve blood sugar regulation, which is particularly beneficial for patients with type 2 diabetes.
Metabolic and Absorptive Changes
Certain procedures, such as gastric bypass, not only reduce food intake but also alter how nutrients are absorbed, leading to faster weight loss and metabolic improvements.
However, bariatric surgery is not a magic solution. It requires commitment to long-term lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and medical follow-up. The procedure itself is a tool—a powerful one—but the patient’s dedication to a healthier lifestyle ultimately determines the success of the surgery.
How Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Works: Scientific Mechanisms Behind Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass
The physiological impact of bariatric weight loss surgery extends far beyond simple restriction of food intake. While both gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy) and gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) are highly effective procedures, their mechanisms differ in how they alter gastrointestinal anatomy, influence metabolic pathways, and regulate hormonal responses. Understanding these processes helps explain why these surgeries are not just weight loss solutions but also powerful metabolic interventions.
Gastric Sleeve: Hormonal and Neurological Changes That Regulate Hunger and Satiety
The gastric sleeve consists of a longitudinal resection of approximately 75-80% of the stomach, leaving behind a narrow tubular structure. This modification induces weight loss through several key physiological mechanisms:
1. Ghrelin Suppression and Appetite Regulation
- The fundus of the stomach, which is responsible for producing ghrelin (the “hunger hormone”), is removed.
- This leads to a significant reduction in circulating ghrelin levels, resulting in decreased appetite and improved satiety.
- Studies show that patients experience a long-term recalibration of their hunger signals, making it easier to adhere to lower caloric intake.
2. Gastric Emptying and Nutrient Sensing
- The sleeve gastrectomy accelerates gastric emptying, meaning that food reaches the small intestine more rapidly.
- This triggers early activation of L-cells in the ileum, which secrete glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and peptide YY (PYY)—hormones that enhance satiety and improve insulin sensitivity.
- The increased release of GLP-1 is particularly beneficial for patients with type 2 diabetes, as it lowers postprandial glucose levels and enhances pancreatic beta-cell function.
3. Altered Gastric Acid Production and Nutrient Absorption
- While gastric sleeve surgery does not involve bypassing the intestines, reduced stomach volume affects the breakdown and absorption of certain micronutrients, particularly iron, vitamin B12, and folate.
- Patients require long-term supplementation to prevent deficiencies.
Gastric Bypass: Altering Nutrient Absorption and Metabolic Hormones
Unlike the gastric sleeve, which primarily works through restriction and hormonal changes, the gastric bypass combines both restriction and malabsorption to enhance weight loss and metabolic benefits. The procedure involves creating a small stomach pouch (approximately 30-50 mL) and rerouting the small intestine, bypassing a significant portion of the duodenum and proximal jejunum.
1. Rerouting Nutrient Flow to Induce Metabolic Changes
- By bypassing the duodenum and proximal jejunum, nutrients directly reach the distal small intestine, increasing secretion of incretin hormones such as GLP-1 and PYY.
- This amplifies the «ileal brake» mechanism, slowing gastric emptying and promoting early and prolonged satiety.
2. Enhanced Insulin Sensitivity and Diabetes Remission
- The alteration in gut hormone secretion improves glucose metabolism independent of weight loss.
- Many patients experience complete or partial remission of type 2 diabetes within days or weeks after surgery, long before significant weight loss occurs.
- This is attributed to changes in bile acid metabolism, which enhance insulin sensitivity and stimulate receptors such as FXR (Farnesoid X receptor) and TGR5 that regulate glucose homeostasis.
3. Selective Malabsorption of Macronutrients
- The bypassed duodenum and proximal jejunum reduce the absorption of certain macronutrients, particularly fats and simple carbohydrates.
- This results in a lower caloric intake, contributing to weight loss.
- However, this also means that patients are at higher risk for vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). Lifelong supplementation is required.
4. Changes in Gut Microbiota and Energy Balance
- Research has shown that bariatric weight loss surgery alters gut microbiota composition, favoring bacterial populations associated with improved metabolic health and reduced inflammation.
- The shift in microbiota may also play a role in reducing cravings for high-fat and high-sugar foods, contributing to long-term dietary changes.
Comparing the Two Procedures: Which One Works Best?
Both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass induce significant weight loss and metabolic improvements, but they differ in their mechanisms and long-term effects:
| Mechanism | Gastric Sleeve | Gastric Bypass |
|---|---|---|
| Restriction | Yes | Yes |
| Malabsorption | No | Yes |
| Ghrelin Reduction | High | Moderate |
| GLP-1 and PYY Increase | Yes | Stronger effect |
| Diabetes Remission | Moderate | High (often immediate) |
| Micronutrient Deficiencies | Moderate | Higher risk |
| Gastric Emptying | Faster | Regulated |
The choice between the two depends on multiple factors, including BMI, comorbidities, metabolic profile, and patient preferences. As a bariatric surgeon, my role is to guide each patient toward the most suitable procedure based on their medical history and long-term health goals.
Types of Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Offered by Dr. Rubén Luna
Choosing the right bariatric weight loss surgery is a decision that must be tailored to each patient’s medical history, metabolic profile, and long-term goals. In my practice, I focus on offering evidence-based procedures that have been proven to be both effective and safe. The three most commonly performed surgeries—gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and mini gastric bypass—each have distinct advantages. Additionally, at Global Obesity Group, our multidisciplinary approach ensures that every patient receives the comprehensive care necessary for long-term success.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
The gastric sleeve, or sleeve gastrectomy, is one of the most widely performed bariatric procedures worldwide. It involves removing approximately 75-80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow, tubular structure that significantly reduces food intake.
How It Works
- The surgery is purely restrictive, meaning it does not involve intestinal bypass or malabsorption.
- By removing the fundus of the stomach, which is responsible for ghrelin production, hunger signals are significantly reduced.
- The remaining stomach continues to function normally, ensuring that food digestion remains physiologically intact.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Significant weight loss
patients typically lose 60-70% of their excess weight within the first 12-18 months.
Metabolic improvements
including better blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes.
No intestinal bypass
which reduces the risk of severe nutritional deficiencies compared to gastric bypass.
Fewer long-term complications
than malabsorptive procedures.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
The gastric sleeve is ideal for patients with:
- A BMI of 30 or higher.
- No severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as this procedure can sometimes worsen acid reflux.
- A preference for a less complex surgical option with excellent long-term outcomes.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) has been a gold standard in bariatric weight loss surgery for decades. It is both restrictive and malabsorptive, meaning it reduces stomach capacity while also modifying nutrient absorption.
How It Works
- A small stomach pouch (~30-50 mL) is created, significantly limiting food intake.
- The small intestine is rerouted, bypassing part of the duodenum and proximal jejunum.
- This results in reduced calorie absorption and enhanced secretion of metabolic hormones such as GLP-1 and PYY, which improve insulin sensitivity and satiety.
Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery
Higher weight loss potential
patients typically lose 70-80% of their excess weight.
Superior metabolic effects
especially for type 2 diabetes remission.
Reduction in acid reflux
making it a good choice for patients with GERD.
Long-term success
patients maintain significant weight loss even after 10+ years.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
The gastric bypass is ideal for patients with:
- Higher BMIs (>40) or those needing more aggressive weight loss.
- Severe type 2 diabetes, as this procedure has the highest remission rates.
- Chronic acid reflux (GERD) that may worsen with gastric sleeve surgery.
Preoperative Assessment
Our team of endocrinologists, nutritionists, and psychologists evaluates each patient to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Nutritional and Behavioral Guidance
Surgery is a powerful tool, but sustainable weight loss depends on dietary and lifestyle modifications. Our nutritionists provide personalized meal plans and ongoing education.
Psychological and Emotional Support
Obesity is a multifaceted disease, our mental health specialists help patients navigate emotional eating, self-esteem issues, and behavioral changes.
Postoperative Follow-Up
Long-term success requires ongoing medical monitoring, including blood tests, supplementation, and weight maintenance strategies.
Beyond Surgery: A Holistic Perspective
At Global Obesity Group, we believe that bariatric weight loss surgery is just the beginning. Our goal is to provide patients with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to achieve lasting health and well-being.
If you are considering bariatric surgery, I encourage you to explore your options and seek guidance from a trusted medical team. Together, we can find the best solution for your health and long-term success.
Benefits of Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery
Many patients considering bariatric weight loss surgery focus primarily on the amount of weight they will lose. While this is a major benefit, the real impact of surgery goes far beyond the number on the scale. Bariatric surgery is a metabolic intervention that leads to profound improvements in overall health, disease prevention, and quality of life.
Let’s explore the key benefits of these procedures, not only in terms of weight loss but also in the long-term health and well-being of my patients.
Long-Term Weight Loss Results
One of the most significant advantages of bariatric weight loss surgery is its ability to achieve and sustain substantial long-term weight loss. Unlike conventional dieting, which often leads to weight regain due to metabolic adaptations, surgery alters the body’s weight regulation mechanisms.
- Permanent Reduction in Stomach Size: Smaller stomach capacity naturally limits portion sizes, leading to reduced caloric intake.
- Hormonal Modulation: By altering the production of key hunger and satiety hormones (such as ghrelin, GLP-1, and PYY), patients experience less hunger and improved fullness after meals.
- Metabolic Adaptation Prevention: Extreme dieting can slow metabolism and increase hunger hormones, making weight loss unsustainable. Bariatric surgery helps prevent these counterproductive metabolic responses.
Expected Weight Loss Based on Procedure
Each type of surgery leads to different weight loss outcomes:
- Gastric Sleeve: 60-70% excess weight loss within 12-18 months.
- Gastric Bypass: 70-80% excess weight loss, often with faster initial results.
- Mini Gastric Bypass: Comparable to gastric bypass, with significant metabolic benefits.
Most importantly, these results are sustainable in the long term when combined with lifestyle changes, nutritional support, and medical follow-up.
Health Benefits Beyond Weight Loss
Obesity is more than excess weight—it is a chronic disease that increases the risk of serious health conditions. Bariatric weight loss surgery has been scientifically proven to reduce or even reverse many obesity-related diseases, significantly improving life expectancy.
Impact on Chronic Diseases
Type 2 Diabetes Remission
- One of the most impressive benefits of gastric bypass and mini gastric bypass is their ability to induce diabetes remission, often within days of surgery, even before significant weight loss occurs.
- This is due to changes in gut hormone secretion (especially GLP-1 and PYY), which improve insulin sensitivity and pancreatic function.
- Studies show that up to 80% of patients experience diabetes remission after surgery.
Cardiovascular Disease Risk Reduction
- Hypertension improves in over 60% of patients after surgery, with many reducing or eliminating their need for medication.
- Cholesterol and triglyceride levels decrease, lowering the risk of atherosclerosis and heart attacks.
- Patients experience better circulation, improved cardiac function, and reduced risk of stroke.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Resolution
- Many patients with obesity suffer from sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep.
- Bariatric weight loss surgery leads to resolution in up to 85% of cases, often allowing patients to stop using CPAP machines.
Joint Pain Relief and Mobility Improvements
- Excess weight places tremendous stress on the knees, hips, and spine, leading to arthritis and chronic pain.
- After surgery, patients experience significant reductions in joint pain and increased mobility, allowing them to engage in physical activities more comfortably.
Cancer Risk Reduction
- Obesity is linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, including breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer.
- Studies have shown that bariatric surgery reduces cancer risk, likely due to its effects on inflammation, insulin resistance, and hormonal balance.
These benefits are not just statistical probabilities—I have personally witnessed hundreds of patients regain their health, reduce medication dependence, and completely change their lives after surgery.
Improved Quality of Life After Surgery
Beyond the medical benefits, one of the most rewarding aspects of my work as a bariatric surgeon is seeing how patients rediscover themselves after weight loss. Self-confidence, physical ability, and overall well-being improve dramatically after surgery.
Psychological and Emotional Benefits
Improved Mental Health
- Many patients struggle with anxiety, depression, or emotional eating before surgery.
- With weight loss, patients often experience increased self-esteem, better body image, and improved mental health.
- Studies show a reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms in patients after bariatric surgery.
Stronger Social and Family Relationships
- Obesity can sometimes limit social interactions due to mobility issues, lack of confidence, or stigma.
- Many patients report feeling more confident in personal and professional settings after weight loss.
Increased Energy and Physical Activity
- After surgery, patients are more active, less fatigued, and able to engage in hobbies they previously avoided.
- Activities such as traveling, playing with children, and participating in sports become possible and enjoyable.
Fertility and Pregnancy Benefits
- In women struggling with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and infertility, weight loss can restore ovulation and increase the chances of natural conception.
- Pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes and hypertension are significantly reduced after bariatric surgery.
Why Choose Dr. Rubén Luna for Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery in Bogotá?
Selecting the right surgeon is essential for a safe procedure and long-term success. As a specialist in bariatric weight loss surgery, I combine years of experience, advanced surgical techniques, and a personalized approach to help my patients achieve lasting health improvements.
Experience and Expertise in Bariatric Surgery
With extensive experience in gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and mini gastric bypass, my approach goes beyond surgery—I provide comprehensive care that includes nutritional guidance, psychological support, and medical follow-ups. Every patient receives an individualized treatment plan based on their medical history and goals.
I stay at the forefront of bariatric and metabolic surgery, applying the latest techniques to ensure safe, effective, and minimally invasive procedures. My priority is not only weight loss but also improving metabolic health, preventing complications, and enhancing overall well-being.
State-of-the-Art Facilities in Bogotá
I operate in top-tier hospitals equipped with minimally invasive surgical technology, ensuring faster recovery, reduced complications, and better outcomes. Our medical team specializes in bariatric patient care, providing the highest standards of safety and comfort throughout the surgical process.
Contact Dr. Rubén Luna
If you’re considering bariatric weight loss surgery, I invite you to reach out. I personally review and respond to all messages, ensuring that each patient receives expert guidance from the very first consultation.
Send me a message today, and let’s start your journey toward a healthier life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery
What is bariatric weight loss surgery, and how does it work?
Bariatric weight loss surgery includes surgical procedures that modify the digestive system to promote significant and sustained weight loss. These surgeries work by reducing stomach capacity, altering gut hormones, and, in some cases, modifying nutrient absorption. The most common procedures are gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and mini gastric bypass, each with specific mechanisms and benefits.
Who is a candidate for bariatric weight loss surgery?
You may be a candidate for bariatric weight loss surgery if:
- Your BMI is 35 or higher, or 30+ with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension.
- You have tried traditional weight loss methods without long-term success.
- You are committed to making permanent lifestyle changes to maintain results.
A full medical evaluation is necessary to determine if surgery is the right option for you.
How much weight can I expect to lose after bariatric weight loss surgery?
Weight loss varies depending on the procedure and patient adherence to lifestyle changes. On average:
- Gastric sleeve results in a 60-70% excess weight loss within 12-18 months.
- Gastric bypass typically leads to 70-80% excess weight loss in a similar timeframe.
- Mini gastric bypass produces weight loss similar to gastric bypass, with additional metabolic benefits.
Long-term success depends on maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medical follow-ups.
Is bariatric weight loss surgery safe?
Yes, bariatric weight loss surgery is considered safe and effective, with low complication rates when performed by an experienced surgeon. As a minimally invasive procedure, laparoscopic techniques reduce surgical risks, shorten recovery time, and minimize pain. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks, including bleeding, infections, or nutrient deficiencies, which can be managed with proper medical follow-up.
Will I need to take vitamins after bariatric weight loss surgery?
Yes, after bariatric weight loss surgery, patients must take daily vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent deficiencies. Depending on the procedure, supplements may include:
- Multivitamins with iron
- Vitamin B12
- Calcium and vitamin D
- Other nutrients based on lab results
Regular blood tests will help ensure that nutrient levels remain balanced.
How long is the recovery period after bariatric weight loss surgery?
Most patients stay in the hospital for one to two days after bariatric weight loss surgery and can return to light activities within a week. Full recovery typically takes four to six weeks, depending on the procedure and individual healing. Patients follow a gradual diet progression, starting with liquids and moving to solid foods over several weeks.
How does bariatric weight loss surgery affect type 2 diabetes?
One of the most significant benefits of bariatric weight loss surgery is its impact on type 2 diabetes. Procedures like gastric bypass and mini gastric bypass can lead to complete diabetes remission in many patients, often within weeks of surgery. This happens due to hormonal changes that improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, independent of weight loss.
Will bariatric weight loss surgery help with other obesity-related conditions?
Yes, beyond weight loss, bariatric weight loss surgery significantly improves or resolves conditions such as:
- Hypertension
- Sleep apnea
- Joint pain and mobility issues
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and infertility
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
The metabolic improvements after surgery lead to a healthier and longer life.
Can I get pregnant after bariatric weight loss surgery?
Yes, but it is recommended to wait at least 12-18 months after bariatric weight loss surgery before trying to conceive. This allows the body to stabilize weight and nutrient levels, ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Many women with previous infertility due to obesity experience improved fertility after surgery.
How do I get started with bariatric weight loss surgery?
The first step is to schedule a consultation with a qualified bariatric surgeon. During this consultation, I will evaluate your medical history, weight loss goals, and overall health to determine the best surgical option for you.
