4+ Leading Medical Clinics for Obesity/Bariatric Surgery in Colombia

What are the best bariatric surgery clinics in Colombia?

The best obesity and bariatric surgery clinics in Colombia include: 1. Andres Felipe Salazar Garcia (Bogota), 2. Clinica CES (Medellin), 3. Clinica Especialistas del Poblado (Medellin), 4. Clinica FOSCAL (Bucaramanga), and 5. Dr. Edgar Vergara (Cali).

These highly-rated medical centers offer advanced weight loss treatments, comprehensive multispecialty care, and procedures like gastric bypass. Treatment costs are highly competitive for international patients, with bariatric surgery packages starting from $8,400 USD, providing high-complexity healthcare and expertly personalized surgical options.

ANDRES FELIPE SALAZAR GARCIA
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Bogota,  Colombia

ANDRES FELIPE SALAZAR GARCIA

Overview

Experience top-tier healthcare with Dr. Andrés Felipe Salazar Garcia in Bogota, Colombia. Offering advanced treatments for bariatric and personalized care, our center is a beacon of medical excellence

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Medellin,  Colombia

Clinica CES - Multispecialty Hospital in Medellin Colombia

Overview

Clinica CES is the best hospital in Medellin, offering multispecialty care, advanced treatments, and patient-centered high-complexity healthcare.

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Center Details
Medellin,  Colombia

Clinica Especialistas del Poblado - Plastic Surgery in Medellin

Overview

Expert plastic surgery in Medellin. Breast, body, facial procedures with advanced technology and personalized care at Clinica Especialistas del Poblado.

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Clinica FOSCAL
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Bucaramanga,  Colombia

Clinica FOSCAL

Overview

Clinica FOSCAL is the Best Hospital in Floridablanca Colombia for Emergency Care, Cancer Treatment, and more. Book your consultation now at PlacidWay.

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Center Details

Discover your treatment options with a free, no-obligation quote!

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Dr. Edgar Vergara
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Cali,  Colombia

Dr. Edgar Vergara

Overview

Discover transformative beauty at Dr. Edgar Vergara plastic surgery clinic in Cali, Colombia. Elevate your confidence with expert care and stunning results.

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Quito,  Ecuador

MedTravel Ecuador

MEDTRAVEL Ecuador, your medical travel partner, gives you the opportunity to receive top quality surgical and dental care while enjoying a holiday in Quito with the additional option of travel within Ecuador. We assure you excellent services by top healthcare providers during your medical vacation.

Guatemala City,  Guatemala

Bariatric Surgeries | Angels Abroad

US board certified bariatric surgeon, Dr. Rodrigo Gonzalez, helping obese patients in improving quality of life by providing best weightloss surgery in latin america.

,  Bolivia

C.I.O.L: Centro Integral de Obesidad y Laparoscopia | Spanish Center

La obesidad se produce como resultado de una alimentación en cantidad o calidad superior a las necesidades del individuo. La persona ingiere mas calorías de las que quema y estas se almacenan en el cuerpo en forma de grasa, en C.I.O.L tratamos este y más problemas relacionados con la obesidad.

Discover your treatment options with a free, no-obligation quote!

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Panama City,  Panama

Panama Gastric Surgery Center

Offering affordable gastric banding & laparoscopic surgery for obesity treatment to medical tourist in Panama.

Buenos Aires,  Argentina

Refresh Med

We have selected the cream of the crop surgeons from South America. We have done our homework and have a proven record of success.

By Hina Munawar - Medically reviewed by Dr. Channarong Kittivong, on Jun 08, 2026
Why Choose Colombia

Why Colombia is the Premier Destination for Obesity and Bariatric Surgery?

Colombia has rapidly emerged as a global powerhouse for high-complexity medical care, particularly in the field of metabolic and weight loss surgery. Here is why thousands of international patients choose this vibrant South American nation to start their transformation.

World-Class Healthcare Infrastructure

Colombia's healthcare system is ranked among the best in the Americas by the World Health Organization. Elite facilities like Clinica FOSCAL and Clinica CES boast state-of-the-art surgical theaters equipped with the latest laparoscopic and robotic technologies, ensuring the highest standards of patient safety during bariatric procedures.

Internationally Trained Bariatric Surgeons

Colombian bariatric specialists undergo rigorous medical training, often completing fellowships in the United States or Europe. Surgeons here are board-certified members of global bariatric associations (like IFSO), bringing refined laparoscopic skills that result in smaller incisions, faster recovery, and lower complication rates.

Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Care

Successful weight loss surgery requires more than just an operation. Colombian clinics are renowned for their holistic approach, integrating psychological evaluations, personalized nutritional coaching, and internal medicine assessments into their bariatric packages to ensure long-term, sustainable weight loss for every patient.

Exceptional Value Without Compromise

Favorable exchange rates and lower administrative overhead allow Colombian medical centers to offer premium bariatric packages at a fraction of North American prices. Patients receive VIP, attentive care in luxury private hospital rooms while saving tens of thousands of dollars on life-saving metabolic surgeries.

Pricing & Savings

Bariatric Surgery Costs in Colombia vs. United States (2026)

Compare projected 2026 pricing for major weight loss procedures. Colombian clinics offer transparent, all-inclusive packages that typically cover surgical fees, anesthesia, hospital stay, and pre-operative evaluations.

Procedure Colombia Price US / UK Price You Save Savings %
Intragastric Balloon$3,200–$4,500$8,000–$12,000$4,800+60%
Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve$5,500–$7,200$18,000–$22,000$12,500+68%
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass$7,500–$9,000$25,000–$35,000$17,500+72%
Bariatric Revision Surgery$8,000–$10,500$30,000–$40,000$22,000+73%

* Prices are 2026 estimates based on verified PlacidWay partner hospitals in Colombia. Total costs vary depending on the patient's BMI, medical history, choice of city (Bogota, Medellin, Cali), and specific surgical requirements. Request a free quote for customized pricing.

Destinations

Top Medical Hubs for Bariatric Surgery in Colombia

Colombia is a large, geographically diverse country with several major cities boasting international healthcare standards. Here is how the top destinations for metabolic surgery compare.

? Capital City Excellence

Bogota

High-Altitude Medical Hub

As the capital, Bogota is home to Colombia's largest and most technologically advanced hospitals. It is the premier choice for patients with complex medical backgrounds or those requiring highly specialized revision bariatric surgeries.

City of Eternal Spring

Medellin

Innovation and Comfort

Renowned for its pleasant climate and innovative healthcare sector, Medellin offers top-tier facilities like Clinica CES. The city's relaxing atmosphere and modern infrastructure make it incredibly popular for medical tourists recovering from gastric surgery.

Specialized Surgical Centers

Bucaramanga

Eastern Healthcare Center

Bucaramanga is famous for housing massive, specialized medical complexes like Clinica FOSCAL. It provides a more tranquil recovery environment than the larger cities while maintaining rigorous international accreditation standards.

Cost-Effective Quality

Cali

Southern Medical Capital

Cali boasts a vibrant culture and exceptionally skilled bariatric and plastic surgeons. It often offers highly competitive pricing on metabolic surgery packages without sacrificing the strict safety protocols found in the capital.

Treatments

Obesity and Bariatric Surgery Options in Colombia

Colombian bariatric specialists offer a full spectrum of metabolic surgeries tailored to your specific BMI, eating habits, and overall health goals to ensure maximum, sustainable weight loss.

Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve

$5,500 – $7,200

The most popular bariatric procedure, involving the removal of about 80% of the stomach to create a narrow tube or "sleeve." This restricts food intake and significantly reduces the production of ghrelin (the hunger hormone), leading to rapid, sustained weight loss.

Save $12,500+ vs. US prices

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

$7,500 – $9,000

Considered the gold standard for metabolic surgery, this procedure creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes the digestive tract. It is highly effective for patients with a higher BMI and provides excellent resolution for obesity-related conditions like Type 2 Diabetes.

Save $17,500+ vs. US prices

Intragastric Balloon

$3,200 – $4,500

A non-surgical, temporary weight loss solution where a saline-filled balloon is placed in the stomach endoscopically. It takes up space, promoting early satiety. It is ideal for patients with a lower BMI who do not qualify for or wish to avoid invasive surgery.

Save $4,800+ vs. US prices

Bariatric Revision Surgery

$8,000 – $10,500

For patients who have experienced weight regain or complications from a previous bariatric procedure. Colombian surgeons are highly skilled at converting old lap bands to a sleeve, or revising a sleeve into a bypass or duodenal switch.

Save $22,000+ vs. US prices

Patient Guide

How to Choose a Bariatric Surgery Clinic in Colombia?

Undergoing metabolic surgery abroad requires careful planning. Follow this 5-step checklist to ensure you select a safe, accredited, and highly capable bariatric team in Colombia.

1

Verify Surgeon Credentials

Ensure your primary surgeon is board-certified in general surgery with a specific fellowship in bariatric and metabolic surgery. Look for memberships in reputable organizations such as the Colombian Association of Obesity and Bariatric Surgery (ACOCIB) or IFSO.

2

Check Hospital Accreditations

Major surgeries should take place in fully equipped hospitals, not small outpatient clinics. Confirm that the facility holds high-level local accreditations (like ICONTEC) or international certifications like Joint Commission International (JCI).

3

Demand Comprehensive Care

A successful bariatric clinic provides multidisciplinary support. Ensure your chosen package includes consultations with a registered nutritionist, psychological evaluation, and access to internal medicine specialists prior to surgery.

4

Understand the Package Inclusions

Request a detailed quote that breaks down exactly what is included. Confirm that pre-operative lab work, post-operative medications, hospital stay duration, and anesthesia fees are covered so there are no hidden costs upon arrival.

5

Use a Verified Facilitator

Avoid navigating a foreign healthcare system alone. By utilizing PlacidWay, you are connected directly with pre-screened, top-tier Colombian medical centers, ensuring your safety, clear communication, and seamless coordination.

Patient Journey

Your Bariatric Surgery Journey in Colombia

Knowing what to expect can alleviate anxiety. Here is the typical step-by-step timeline for international patients traveling to Colombia for weight loss surgery.

Step 1: Medical Evaluation and Booking

Submit your medical history and a basic health questionnaire. A Colombian bariatric surgeon will review your case to determine if you are a candidate for a Sleeve, Bypass, or Balloon, and establish your pre-op diet requirements.

Step 2: Arrival and Pre-Op Testing

Upon arrival in Bogota, Medellin, or Cali, you will visit the hospital for comprehensive pre-operative testing. This typically includes blood work, an EKG, chest X-rays, and final consultations with the surgeon and anesthesiologist.

Step 3: The Surgical Procedure

Your laparoscopic procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Most bariatric surgeries take between 1 to 2.5 hours. Because it is minimally invasive, surgical trauma is reduced, promoting faster healing.

Step 4: Hospital Observation and Recovery

You will spend 1 to 2 nights recovering in a private hospital room under 24/7 medical supervision. Once discharged, you will rest at a specialized recovery hotel for several days while adapting to your initial liquid diet.

Step 5: Follow-Up and Return Home

After a final post-operative check-up to ensure you are healing properly and tolerating liquids, you are cleared to fly home (usually 6 to 8 days post-op). Your medical team will provide continuous virtual nutritional support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia FAQ

Detailed answers to the most common questions international patients have when considering weight loss surgery in Colombia.

How much does Obesity and Bariatric Surgery cost in Colombia? +

The cost of Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia varies depending on the specific procedure required. On average, a Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve costs between $5,500 and $7,200, while a more complex Gastric Bypass package ranges from $7,500 to $9,000.

These prices are highly inclusive, generally covering the surgeon's fees, anesthesia, hospital room board for 1-2 nights, standard pre-operative testing, and initial nutritional consultations. Compared to the United States—where a Gastric Bypass can exceed $30,000—patients save between 60% and 75% by having their surgery in Colombia.

Is Obesity and Bariatric Surgery safe in Colombia? +

Yes, Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia is remarkably safe when performed at accredited, high-tier hospitals. Colombia is widely recognized as having one of the best healthcare systems in Latin America, with major cities like Bogota, Medellin, and Bucaramanga hosting JCI-accredited and highly rated local hospitals.

Surgeons performing these procedures are rigorously trained, with many holding international memberships in the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO). By adhering to strict pre-operative screening and using advanced laparoscopic techniques, the complication rates in top Colombian clinics mirror those of elite US hospitals.

How long do I need to stay in Colombia for Obesity and Bariatric Surgery? +

For major procedures like a Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass, you should plan to stay in Colombia for a total of 8 to 10 days. This duration is critical for your safety and ensures you are fully cleared for air travel.

Typically, you will arrive 1-2 days before the surgery for pre-op testing. After the surgery, you will spend 1 to 2 nights in the hospital, followed by 4 to 6 days recovering at a hotel. During this time, the medical team will monitor your adaptation to a liquid diet and ensure there are no signs of leaks or complications before you fly home.

What is the required BMI to qualify for Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia? +

In Colombia, the guidelines for Obesity and Bariatric Surgery generally follow international standards. You typically qualify for surgical interventions (like Sleeve or Bypass) if your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 35 or higher with at least one obesity-related comorbidity (such as Type 2 Diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea).

If your BMI is 40 or above, you qualify for surgery regardless of comorbidities. For patients with a lower BMI (between 27 and 34) who struggle with weight loss but do not want invasive surgery, Colombian clinics often recommend non-surgical options like the Intragastric Balloon.

What kind of pre-op diet is required before Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia? +

Before undergoing Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia, your surgeon will mandate a strict pre-operative liver reduction diet. This usually begins 2 to 4 weeks prior to your surgery date, depending heavily on your starting BMI.

The primary goal of this high-protein, low-carbohydrate liquid diet is to shrink the liver, making the laparoscopic procedure much safer and technically easier for the surgeon. Following this diet strictly is non-negotiable; if the liver is too large upon surgical entry, the doctor may be forced to cancel the operation.

Can I get revision Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia? +

Yes, many patients travel for revision Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia. Revision surgery is highly complex and requires exceptional surgical skill, which top Colombian bariatric specialists possess.

Common revision procedures include converting an outdated Lap Band into a Gastric Sleeve, or revising a stretched Gastric Sleeve into a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass due to severe acid reflux or weight regain. Because revision surgeries are more complicated, they are slightly more expensive than primary surgeries and require a thorough review of your previous operative reports.

What is the recovery like after Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia? +

Because Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia is almost exclusively performed laparoscopically (through tiny keyhole incisions), physical recovery is relatively swift. Most patients are up and walking within hours of waking from anesthesia to prevent blood clots.

However, the dietary recovery is a gradual process. You will be on a clear liquid diet during your stay in Colombia, slowly transitioning to full liquids, purees, and eventually solid foods over a 6 to 8 week period once you return home. You can expect to return to desk work within 2 weeks, but heavy lifting must be avoided for at least a month.

How much weight will I lose with Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia? +

The amount of weight lost after Obesity and Bariatric Surgery in Colombia depends on the procedure chosen and your adherence to post-operative lifestyle changes. On average, Gastric Sleeve patients lose 60% to 70% of their excess body weight within the first 12 to 18 months.

Gastric Bypass patients typically see slightly higher results, losing 70% to 80% of their excess weight. It is crucial to remember that the surgery is a powerful tool, but lasting success relies on your commitment to the nutritional and behavioral guidelines provided by your Colombian medical team.

Real Patient Stories

What Patients Say About Weight Loss Surgery in Colombia

Read firsthand accounts from individuals who traveled to Colombia to reclaim their health and vitality through our verified network of bariatric centers.

"I had struggled with my weight for twenty years and my insurance in the US kept denying my gastric sleeve. Traveling to Bogota was the best decision of my life. The hospital was more modern than anything in my hometown, and the surgical team treated me with incredible dignity. I am down 85 pounds and completely off my blood pressure medication."

Michael D.

"My bariatric revision surgery in Medellin went flawlessly. My previous sleeve had stretched, causing severe reflux, so my surgeon converted it to a bypass. The multidisciplinary care, including the nutritionist who guided my recovery diet, was phenomenal. Colombia offers world-class medical expertise without the crippling financial burden."

Elena S.
Your Trusted Facilitator

Why Choose PlacidWay for Your Bariatric Journey?

Navigating international healthcare requires expertise and trust. As an independent medical facilitator, PlacidWay connects you with Colombia's highest-rated bariatric specialists safely and efficiently.

Pre-Screened Medical Facilities

We independently verify every Colombian clinic and hospital in our network for proper medical licensing, stringent safety protocols, and robust intensive care capabilities to handle complex metabolic surgeries.

Unbiased Medical Facilitation

As a facilitator rather than a medical provider, our primary allegiance is to you. We provide transparent, comparative options from multiple clinics so you can choose the facility that best fits your medical needs and budget.

Direct Specialist Communication

We bridge the gap by setting up direct virtual consultations between you and the bariatric surgeons in Colombia. Ask your clinical questions directly to the doctor who will be performing your procedure.

Comprehensive Patient Advocacy

From assisting with initial health questionnaire submissions and translating medical documents to following up with the clinic regarding your nutritional progress post-treatment, our team advocates for your successful outcome.

Start Your Weight Loss Transformation Today

Don't let high costs prevent you from achieving the healthy, active life you deserve. Receive world-class obesity and bariatric surgery in Colombia and save up to 70% compared to domestic prices. Connect with top-tier specialists now.

Get Free Quote

Disclaimer: PlacidWay is a medical tourism facilitator and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We connect patients with independently verified clinics abroad. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific medical condition.

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