Bariatric surgery is a group of surgical procedures that help people with severe obesity lose significant weight by modifying the stomach, intestines, or both. It is one of the most effective long-term treatments for obesity and its related health conditions.
Bariatric surgery refers to surgical procedures designed to treat severe obesity by modifying the digestive system to reduce food intake, alter digestion, and change gut hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism. It is recommended for patients who have failed to achieve adequate weight loss through sustained diet and lifestyle changes, and who meet established clinical criteria. Beyond weight loss, bariatric surgery leads to significant improvement or remission of obesity-related conditions including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, and joint pain.
The most commonly performed bariatric procedures include sleeve gastrectomy, which removes approximately 80% of the stomach creating a banana-shaped sleeve; Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, which creates a small stomach pouch and bypasses part of the small intestine; and adjustable gastric banding, which is now less commonly performed. In Korea, sleeve gastrectomy is the most popular procedure. All operations are performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) by specially trained bariatric surgeons.
Candidacy for bariatric surgery in Korea follows international guidelines: BMI ≥40, or BMI ≥35 with one or more serious obesity-related conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea). A comprehensive pre-operative assessment by a multidisciplinary team — including a bariatric surgeon, dietitian, psychologist, and physician — is required. Significant lifestyle changes and dietary adherence are essential for long-term success.
Key Points
- Modifies stomach/intestines to reduce food intake and alter metabolic hormones
- Most common procedure in Korea: sleeve gastrectomy (removes ~80% of stomach)
- Indicated for BMI ≥40, or BMI ≥35 with serious obesity-related conditions
- Multidisciplinary team assessment required before surgery
- Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery — typically 2–3 day hospital stay
- Long-term lifestyle and dietary changes are essential for sustained results
Causes & Risk Factors
- Severe obesity (BMI ≥40) or obesity (BMI ≥35) with serious comorbidities
- Type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled with medications
- Obesity-related hypertension, sleep apnoea, or joint disease
- Failed sustained attempts at weight loss through diet, exercise, and medications
- Significant impact of obesity on quality of life and physical function
When to See a Doctor
- If you have a BMI ≥35 with obesity-related health conditions — consult a bariatric specialist
- Before considering any weight loss surgery — thorough evaluation and counselling is required
- If you have type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnoea related to obesity
- After bariatric surgery — ongoing follow-up with your bariatric team is essential for the first 2 years
- If you experience post-operative symptoms including persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, or hair loss
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
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Last reviewed: May 29, 2026