Dr. Ruben Luna answer your questions

Recovery from bariatric surgery is generally quick, but varies for each patient. In most cases, only 24 hours of hospitalization is required. However, full recovery can take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of procedure and the individual patient’s condition. It’s important to carefully follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions for optimal recovery.

ur multidisciplinary program will accompany you in your recovery after surgery. You will have nutritional and psychological support, among others. This includes a specialized diet that progresses gradually, gentle exercises, pain management, incision care, and regular follow-ups with the medical team. Guidance on long-term lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss and improve overall health will also be provided.

Bariatric surgery can restore health and eradicate diseases associated with obesity. A woman’s fertility usually improves after weight loss treatment. However, it’s recommended to wait 12 to 18 months after surgery before trying to conceive, to ensure stable weight loss and adequate nutrition. It’s crucial to consult with your bariatric surgeon and obstetrician to plan for a healthy pregnancy.

Diabetes is a disease highly associated with obesity. Bariatric Surgery is an alternative to regain health and can significantly improve or even resolve type 2 diabetes in many patients. In fact, bariatric surgery is often considered an effective treatment for diabetes in people with obesity. For more specific information about your case, we recommend writing to Dr. Ruben Luna for a personalized consultation!

To determine if you are a candidate for Bariatric Surgery, you must calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI). By relating your height and weight, you will be able to know if you are overweight or obese. Ideally, you should schedule an assessment appointment to evaluate your case and determine the appropriate treatment. Generally, bariatric surgery is considered for people with a BMI of 35 or higher, or a BMI of 30 or higher with obesity-related comorbidities. However, each case is unique and requires a comprehensive evaluation.

Overweight and obesity are two states that are differentiated by BMI. According to this indicator, a person is overweight if their BMI is higher than 25 and obese if it is higher than 30. Five key differences include:

• Degree of excess weight
• Associated health risks
• Recommended treatments
• Impact on quality of life
• Need for medical intervention

 Whether you are a good candidate for a gastric balloon, gastric sleeve, or gastric bypass depends on a number of factors. During the assessment, we’ll look at your weight, height, and any diseases that might be linked to these aspects. Our multidisciplinary team will evaluate you and recommend the appropriate treatment. Each procedure has its own indications and benefits, and the choice is based on your BMI, medical history, weight loss goals, and personal preferences. Make an appointment for a personalized evaluation.

 Bariatric Surgery will allow you to lose weight substantially, and you will also have our multidisciplinary program that will support you so that the results are long-lasting. However, it’s important to understand that surgery is a tool, and long-term success largely depends on the patient’s commitment to lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise. With proper follow-up and maintenance of healthy habits, many patients achieve significant long-term weight loss.

 In Bogota, Colombia, are the best clinics in the country for surgery and organ transplantation. Dr. Ruben Luna and his team are located in Bogota, Colombia, and are recognized and experienced in the management of obesity. In addition, Dr. Ruben Luna is trained to perform Bariatric Surgery using Advanced Laparoscopy and Robotic Surgery techniques. This expertise ensures that patients receive high-quality care using the most advanced surgical methods available.

The main types of bariatric surgeries include:

• Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)
• Sleeve Gastrectomy

Weight loss varies, but patients can typically expect to lose 50-80% of their excess weight within the first year to 18 months after surgery. For example, gastric bypass patients often lose 60-80% of excess weight, while sleeve gastrectomy patients might lose 50-70%.

Yes, most bariatric surgery patients need to take vitamins and supplements for life. This is because the surgery affects the body’s ability to absorb certain nutrients. Common supplements include multivitamins, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iron.

Yes, exercise is crucial after bariatric surgery. Light activity like walking can start the same day of surgery. More strenuous exercise can usually begin 4-6 weeks post-op, with doctor’s approval. Recommended exercises include walking, swimming, and strength training.

Yes, non-surgical alternatives include:

• Lifestyle changes (diet and exercise)
• Behavioral therapy
• Medications for weight loss
• Endoscopic procedures like intragastric balloons These may be suitable for people with lower BMIs or those who cannot undergo surgery.

Contact us if you want an appoiment to find out what is the best treatment for you.

Success rates are generally high. Studies show that 50-70% of excess weight loss is maintained 10+ years after surgery for most patients. However, success depends on adherence to post-surgical lifestyle changes.

Sleeve gastrectomy, are not truly reversible but can be converted to a different type of bariatric surgery if needed. Gastric bypass can be reversed, but it’s complex and rarely done.

Follow-up schedules vary, but typically include:

• 1 week post-op
• 1 month post-op
• 3 months post-op
• 6 months post-op
• 1 year post-op After the first year, annual check-ups are usually recommended.