Treatment Overview
Roux‑en‑Y One‑Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB) in Korea is an advanced bariatric procedure that combines the benefits of traditional Roux‑en‑Y surgery with a simplified one-anastomosis approach. This procedure reduces stomach volume and reroutes the small intestine to limit calorie absorption and optimize metabolic function, resulting in significant weight loss and improvement in obesity-related health conditions. Korean hospitals offer state-of-the-art laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery, along with comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, making it a preferred option for international medical tourists.
Purpose & Benefits
The OAGB procedure provides multiple benefits:
- Significant and sustainable weight loss.
- Improvement or remission of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.
- Enhanced hormonal regulation affecting appetite, satiety, and glucose metabolism.
- Simplified surgical approach reduces operation time and potential complications.
- Improved quality of life, energy levels, and overall health.
Ideal Candidates
OAGB is suitable for:
- Adults with BMI ≥35 or BMI 30–34.9 with obesity-related comorbidities.
- Patients with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome seeking effective surgical intervention.
- Individuals who have not achieved significant weight loss with diet, exercise, or medications.
- Adults willing to adhere to long-term dietary, lifestyle, and follow-up care programs.
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, potential risks include:
- Standard surgical risks such as bleeding, infection, or anesthesia reactions.
- Nutritional deficiencies if post-operative dietary guidance and supplementation are not followed.
- Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, or dumping syndrome.
- Rare complications including leaks, strictures, or bile reflux.
Korean hospitals reduce risks through meticulous pre-operative assessment, minimally invasive techniques, and structured post-operative monitoring.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals utilize advanced methods for optimal outcomes:
- Laparoscopic OAGB: Minimally invasive approach with faster recovery and smaller scars.
- Robotic-Assisted Surgery (optional): Enhances precision for complex or high-risk cases.
- Metabolic and Hormonal Monitoring: Tracks glucose, insulin, and appetite-regulating hormones.
- Multidisciplinary Care: Surgeons, endocrinologists, dietitians, and psychologists collaborate for comprehensive care.
- Post-Operative Digital Monitoring: Enables remote follow-up for international patients.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Evaluation: Comprehensive assessment of BMI, metabolic health, and comorbidities.
- Pre-Operative Testing: Blood tests, imaging, hormonal and nutritional evaluation.
- Surgery: OAGB performed under general anesthesia, typically 1.5–3 hours.
- Hospital Stay: 2–3 days with multidisciplinary monitoring.
- Post-Operative Care: Includes dietary counseling, supplementation, exercise guidance, and regular follow-up visits for weight and metabolic management.
Recovery & After-Care
- Immediate Post-Surgery: Early ambulation, hydration, and liquid diet.
- Weeks 2–4: Gradual transition from liquid to soft foods, then solid foods under dietitian supervision.
- Nutritional Supplements: Lifelong vitamins and minerals to prevent deficiencies.
- Lifestyle Guidance: Balanced diet, exercise, and behavioral counseling for sustainable results.
- Follow-Up Visits: Monitor weight, metabolic improvements, and overall health to ensure long-term success.
Results & Longevity
- Patients typically achieve 60–75% excess weight loss within 12–18 months.
- Significant improvement or remission of type 2 diabetes and other obesity-related metabolic disorders.
- Lifelong adherence to diet, supplements, and lifestyle programs ensures sustained results.
- High patient satisfaction due to effective weight loss and improved quality of life.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced bariatric surgeons specializing in OAGB and metabolic surgery.
- Advanced hospitals with laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery facilities.
- Structured pre- and post-operative programs for international patients.
- Competitive pricing combined with high-quality patient care and safety.
- English-speaking staff, concierge services, and full medical tourism support.
Cost Range
- Surgery alone: $10,000 – $18,000 USD
- Full packages (including pre-op testing, hospital stay, dietary counseling, post-op care, and medical tourism support): $14,000 – $25,000 USD
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Seoul National University Hospital – Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery Center
- Asan Medical Center – One‑Anastomosis Gastric Bypass Unit
- Samsung Medical Center – Bariatric Surgery & Metabolic Care Department
- JK Plastic Surgery & Bariatric Center – OAGB Surgery Program
- Korea University Anam Hospital – Integrated Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery Unit
