Bariatric surgery · Medellín, Colombia

More than 2,000
lives transformed

A close accompaniment and an advanced surgical technique to help you regain your energy, mobility and confidence. Before, during and after the procedure.

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2.000+Successful surgeries
11+Years
IRCADBrazil
Dr. Bladimiro Bula, bariatric surgeon in Medellin, in a surgical environment
Dr. Bladimiro Bula Bariatric Surgeon
We understand your moment

We know that taking this step
is not easy

"Each of the more than 2,000 transformation stories we have accompanied started exactly where you are today: with doubts, with unanswered questions, with the tiredness of having tried so many times without finding the result you were looking for.

We know that this journey is not just about losing weight. It is about regaining energy, mobility and confidence in your own body. It's about recognizing yourself in front of the mirror and rediscovering the life you deserve.

My commitment to you goes beyond the operating room: I accompany you before, during and after. With the experience of more than 11 years and more than 2,000 surgeries, but above all with the human closeness that this moment requires.

You are not alone in this."- Dr. Bladimiro Bula
01

Diets without lasting results

You've tried multiple diets and programs, but the weight always comes back. It's not your fault.

02

Your health is affected

Being overweight impacts your energy, mobility and can lead to conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.

03

Fear of making the wrong choice

You are concerned that you will not find the surgeon with the experience and humane approach you need.

04

You don't know where to start

Too much information and not enough clarity about which procedure is right for you.

Success stories

Stories of transformation

A new chapter
Linney Torres
From Aruba 🇦🇼
Claudia
María Victoria
Real results

Before and after

Real transformations of Dr. Bladimiro Bula's patients. Every result is individual and depends on each person's commitment to their process.

Before and after: Dr. Bula patient with 43 kg weight loss
Before and after: body transformation of a Dr. Bula patient
Before and after: Dr. Bula patient with 50 kg weight loss
Before and after: Dr. Bula patient with 27 kg weight loss
Procedures

Surgeries that transform lives

01
More in demand

Gastric Sleeve

80% reduction of the stomach by laparoscopic technique. Limits intake without affecting nutrient absorption.

Minimally invasive surgery
Duration: 60 - 75 minutes
Indicated for BMI over 30
60-70% excess weight loss
Rapid recovery
Learn more →
02
Metabolic results

Gastric Bypass

Reduces stomach and redirects the intestine. Combines restriction with controlled malabsorption for significant results.

Advanced laparoscopic technique
Indicated for BMI over 35
50-75% overweight loss
Improves type 2 diabetes and hypertension
Long-term results
Learn more →
03
Non-surgical

Gastric Balloon

Swallowable balloon taken as a capsule, with no endoscopy or anesthesia. It reduces intake for ~6 months and is eliminated naturally.

Non-surgical procedure
Outpatient placement (~20 min)
No endoscopy or anesthesia
10-15% of body weight
Lasts ~6 months
Learn more →
04

Antireflux Surgery

Laparoscopic fundoplication for drug-resistant gastroesophageal reflux. Short stay.

Consult →
05

Cholecystectomy

Gallbladder removal by laparoscopy. Same or next day discharge. Rapid recovery.

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06

Inguinal Herniorrhaphy

Laparoscopic hernia repair with mesh. Ideal for bilateral hernias. Same day discharge.

Consult →
07

Hemicolectomy

Partial removal of the colon by laparoscopy. Indicated for colon cancer and diverticulitis.

Consult →
Free tool

Calculate your body mass index

Find out your BMI and which category you fall into. It is a first step toward knowing whether bariatric surgery could be an option for you.

Your BMI is—
CategoryEnter your data

Enter your weight and height to see your result and a general recommendation.

BMI is a general reference and does not replace a medical evaluation. Only Dr. Bula can determine whether you are a candidate for bariatric surgery.

Your way

Four steps to your transformation

01

Schedule a consultation

Schedule your in-person or virtual assessment. No commitment, it's the first step.

02

Medical evaluation

We review exams, evaluate feasibility and solve all your doubts.

03

Safe surgery

Minimally invasive procedure in a high level clinic in Medellin.

04

Complete follow-up

Control at 24h, 8 days, 30 days and 90 days post-surgery.

Your surgeon

Dr. Bladimiro Bula

Dr. Bladimiro Bula in the operating room of Las Vegas Hospital, Medellin

Bladimiro Bula

General Surgeon · Laparoscopy · Bariatric Surgery

Nationally and internationally recognized for performing bariatric surgeries. A doctor who understands the importance of trust and human care in every step of the process.

She is dedicated to listening and understanding each patient, facilitating positive change in their lives with an empathetic approach and extensive knowledge.

Metropolitan University of BarranquillaMedicine · General and Laparoscopic Surgery
IRCAD Institute - Rio de Janeiro, BrazilCertification in Bariatric Surgery
+11 years of experienceMore than 2,000 successful surgeries
Clínica Las Vegas - El PobladoHigh-level infrastructure in Medellín
Location

Where we operate

Clínica Las Vegas

AddressCl. 2 Sur #46-55, El Poblado
Office 415, Clínica Las Vegas
Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
WhatsApp+57 300 677 9166
Instagram@drbladimirobula ✓
International patients: Medellin is a leading destination in medical tourism in Latin America. We offer virtual pre-assessment and logistical support for your trip.
Detailed information

Learn more about your surgery

Each procedure has its own page with all the information: how it is performed, candidates, recovery, costs, questions and more.

Procedure

Gastric Sleeve

Laparoscopic gastric sleeve. Reduction of 80% of the stomach. Indicated from BMI 30. Loss of 60-70% of excess.

See details →
Metabolic procedure

Gastric Bypass

Roux-en-Y. Better metabolic control. Indicated for type 2 diabetes and BMI from 35. 70-80% loss.

See details →
Second chance

Revision Surgery

For weight regain, technical complications or severe reflux after previous bariatric surgery.

See details →
Complete information

Frequently Asked Questions

30+ detailed answers about bariatric surgery, recovery, costs, candidates, risks and more.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We solve
your doubts

This is an important step. Here we answer the most common questions so you can make an informed decision.

Bariatric surgery is indicated for people with BMI over 35, or with BMI over 30 who have associated diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea or joint problems. In the evaluation with Dr. Bula we evaluate your BMI, medical history, background and habits to recommend the safest and most effective procedure for your case.
The gastric sleeve has an average duration of 60 to 75 minutes. Gastric bypass takes 90 to 120 minutes. Both procedures are performed laparoscopically, minimally invasive, which means small incisions, less post-operative pain and faster recovery.
With the gastric sleeve, between 60% and 70% of the excess weight is lost in the first 12 to 18 months. With the gastric bypass the loss is 70% to 80% of the excess weight in the same period. The results depend on the patient's commitment with the nutritional plan and the changes in habits after the surgery.
The average hospital stay is 24 to 48 hours for gastric sleeve and gastric bypass. The surgeries are performed at Clínica Las Vegas, in El Poblado, Medellin, a high level institution with complete safety protocols and post-surgical care.
Most patients return to daily activities in 7 to 14 days. For office work the return is 1 to 2 weeks; for physically demanding activities it is recommended to wait 4 to 6 weeks. The medical follow-up includes controls at 24 hours, 8 days, 30 days, 90 days, 6 months and one year after surgery.
Yes, laparoscopic bariatric surgery is one of the most standardized and safest procedures in modern surgery when performed by an expert team in a high level institution. Dr. Bula has performed more than 2,000 successful surgeries, is certified by the IRCAD Institute of Rio de Janeiro and operates at Clínica Las Vegas, El Poblado, Medellin.
The gastric sleeve reduces approximately 80% of the stomach without altering the absorption of nutrients and is ideal for patients with BMI over 30. Gastric bypass reduces the stomach and also redirects the small intestine, combining restriction with controlled malabsorption; it is indicated for BMI over 35 or when there are metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, where it significantly improves comorbidities.
For office work or non-physically demanding activities, most patients return to work 7 to 14 days after surgery. For jobs involving physical exertion, heavy lifting or strenuous activity, it is recommended to wait 4 to 6 weeks to avoid complications in the wounds and abdominal wall.
Yes, we perform previous virtual assessment by video call, coordinate pre-surgical exams and offer logistical support for your trip and stay in Medellin. The city is one of the leading destinations in medical tourism in Latin America thanks to its hospital infrastructure, qualified surgeons and excellent value for money.
The cost depends on the procedure (gastric sleeve, gastric bypass or revision surgery), the type of hospitalization and the findings of the pre-surgical evaluation. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Bula to receive a detailed estimate, financing options and complete information on the surgical package (surgery, anesthesia, hospitalization and post-operative controls).

Take the first step
to your new life

Schedule your assessment with Dr. Bladimiro Bula. In person in Medellin or virtual from anywhere in the world.

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