Who is a candidate?
- Body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, with or without related conditions.
- BMI 30–34.9 with type 2 diabetes or another metabolic disease not controlled medically.
- Previous attempts at weight loss through diet, exercise or medication without lasting results.
- Commitment to lifelong nutritional, psychological and medical follow-up.
How it is done
- Both operations are performed laparoscopically through 5–12 mm incisions with a high-definition camera, which means less pain and a faster recovery.
- The gastric sleeve removes about 75–80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow tube that creates early fullness and lowers the hunger hormone ghrelin.
- The gastric bypass creates a small stomach pouch connected directly to the small intestine, combining restriction with reduced absorption — especially useful for type 2 diabetes and severe reflux.
- Surgery is preceded by a multidisciplinary evaluation: nutrition, psychology, endocrinology, cardiology and anesthesia.
Typical recovery
- Hospital stay
- 1–3 days
- Diet
- Liquids → purées → solids over 4–6 weeks
- Desk work
- 2–3 weeks
- Follow-up
- Lifelong, with vitamin supplements
Frequently asked questions
Does Panama’s Social Security (CSS) cover bariatric surgery in Chiriquí?
Yes. Hospital Dr. Rafael Hernández offers bariatric surgery free of charge to insured patients. As Dr. Carreira explained to CSS press, patients need a referral from a general practitioner that states their level of obesity.
What results has the Hospital Rafael Hernández bariatric program achieved?
By October 2024 the program had performed 70 surgeries, and 78% of patients achieved significant weight loss — above the international standard, according to Dr. Carreira as the program’s general surgeon.
Gastric sleeve or gastric bypass — which is better?
It depends on the patient. The sleeve is technically simpler and does not reroute the intestine; bypass is often preferred with hard-to-control diabetes or severe reflux. The choice is made in consultation after a full evaluation.
How much weight will I lose?
On average patients lose 60–80% of their excess weight in the first 12–18 months, provided they maintain changes in diet and physical activity.
Information on this site is educational and does not replace a medical consultation. In an emergency, go to the nearest emergency room.