Treatment Overview
Roux‑en‑Y Duodenal Switch (RY-DS) Surgery is an advanced bariatric and metabolic procedure designed to treat severe obesity and associated metabolic disorders. This surgery combines a sleeve gastrectomy with a duodenal switch and a Roux‑en‑Y intestinal rerouting, limiting food intake and reducing calorie absorption while optimizing hormonal regulation for metabolism and diabetes control. Korea is a preferred destination for RY-DS due to its cutting-edge laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques, highly experienced surgeons, and comprehensive pre- and post-operative care for international patients.
Purpose & Benefits
RY-DS offers multiple benefits:
- Maximum and sustained weight loss for morbidly obese patients.
- Improvement or remission of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance.
- Reduction in obesity-related conditions such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and sleep apnea.
- Enhanced metabolic function and hormonal regulation.
- Long-term improvement in overall health, energy levels, and quality of life.
Ideal Candidates
RY-DS is suitable for:
- Adults with BMI ≥ 50, or BMI ≥ 40 with comorbidities.
- Patients with BMI 35–39.9 who have severe obesity-related health issues.
- Individuals with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome requiring surgical intervention.
- Adults aged 18–65 committed to lifelong dietary adherence, nutritional monitoring, and lifestyle modifications.
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, potential risks include:
- Surgical complications such as bleeding, infection, or anesthesia reactions.
- Nutritional deficiencies (protein, vitamins A, D, E, K, B12, calcium, iron, zinc).
- Dumping syndrome or gastrointestinal disturbances.
- Rare complications like leaks, strictures, bowel obstruction, or ulcers.
Korean hospitals mitigate risks through precise pre-operative evaluation, advanced minimally invasive techniques, and structured post-operative nutritional and metabolic monitoring.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals use advanced technology to ensure optimal outcomes:
- Laparoscopic RY-DS: Minimally invasive surgery reduces recovery time and scarring.
- Robotic-Assisted Surgery (optional): Provides enhanced precision for complex cases.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy + Duodenal Switch: Combines restrictive and malabsorptive techniques for maximal weight loss.
- Post-Operative Metabolic Monitoring: Tracks weight, nutrient intake, blood sugar, and hormonal changes.
- Multidisciplinary Care: Surgeons, dietitians, endocrinologists, and psychologists collaborate for comprehensive support.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation: Assessment of BMI, metabolic disorders, and comorbidities.
- Pre-Operative Testing: Blood tests, imaging, nutritional and hormonal assessments.
- Surgery: Performed under general anesthesia, typically lasting 3–5 hours.
- Hospital Stay: 3–5 days with multidisciplinary monitoring.
- Post-Operative Care: Includes dietary counseling, supplementation, exercise planning, metabolic monitoring, and regular follow-up visits.
Recovery & After-Care
- Immediate Post-Surgery: Early ambulation, hydration, and liquid diet.
- Weeks 2–4: Gradual progression from liquid to soft foods, then solid foods under dietitian supervision.
- Nutritional Supplements: Lifelong supplementation to prevent deficiencies.
- Lifestyle Support: Balanced diet, exercise, portion control, and behavioral guidance.
- Regular Follow-Ups: Monitoring of weight, metabolic improvements, and nutritional balance.
Results & Longevity
- Patients achieve maximum weight loss compared to other bariatric procedures.
- Significant improvement or remission of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.
- Lifelong adherence to diet, supplements, and follow-ups ensures sustained outcomes.
- High patient satisfaction due to comprehensive care, long-term metabolic benefits, and effective obesity management.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Expert bariatric surgeons experienced in advanced metabolic surgeries like RY-DS.
- Hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art laparoscopic and robotic-assisted technology.
- Structured pre- and post-operative programs tailored for international patients.
- Competitive pricing without compromising quality or patient safety.
- English-speaking staff, concierge services, and full medical tourism support.
Cost Range
- Surgery alone: $14,000 – $25,000 USD
- Full packages (including pre-op testing, hospital stay, dietary counseling, post-op care, and medical tourism support): $18,000 – $30,000 USD
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Seoul National University Hospital – Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery Center
- Asan Medical Center – Advanced Obesity & Duodenal Switch Surgery Department
- Samsung Medical Center – Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery Unit
- JK Plastic Surgery & Bariatric Center – Duodenal Switch & Obesity Care
- Korea University Anam Hospital – RY-DS & Metabolic Surgery Unit
