Bariatric Surgeries

For many, the journey toward a healthy weight can be long, challenging, and often disheartening. When severe obesity persists despite consistent efforts with diet and exercise, it’s essential to recognize that this is not a personal failure—but a complex, chronic medical condition. Severe obesity is linked to a cascade of health complications that can significantly reduce both quality of life and life expectancy. In this context, metabolic and bariatric surgery emerges as a powerful, scientifically proven intervention that offers not just weight loss, but a true transformation in health and well-being.

Poland has become a leading destination in Europe for high-quality, affordable bariatric care—combining advanced medical expertise with state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centered approach. For individuals seeking a sustainable path to renewed vitality, Poland offers world-class surgical solutions in a safe, supportive environment.

Metabolic and bariatric surgery refers to a group of procedures designed to treat severe obesity and its associated health conditions by altering the digestive system. These surgeries go far beyond cosmetic weight loss—they are life-saving interventions that correct metabolic imbalances, improve organ function, and dramatically reduce the risks of obesity-related diseases.

The goal? To help patients achieve lasting weight loss, reverse chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, and reclaim an active, fulfilling life.

How Bariatric Surgery Works: More Than Just Smaller Portions

The success of bariatric surgery lies in its ability to address the biological and hormonal roots of obesity—something traditional diets often fail to do. The mechanisms behind these procedures include:

• Restriction: Reducing stomach size limits food intake and promotes early satiety.
• Malabsorption: Some procedures alter the path of digestion, reducing calorie absorption.
• Hormonal Regulation: Surgery changes gut hormone signaling, lowering hunger (ghrelin), improving insulin sensitivity, and enhancing feelings of fullness.

This “metabolic reset” is why many patients experience rapid improvements in conditions like type 2 diabetes—even before significant weight loss occurs.

Are You a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

Deciding to pursue surgery is a major step, and eligibility is determined through a comprehensive medical evaluation. General criteria include:

• BMI of 40 or higher (severe or morbid obesity)
• BMI of 35–39.9 with at least one obesity-related condition (e.g., type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea)
• BMI of 30–34.9 in select cases, particularly when metabolic disease is difficult to control

In Poland, these guidelines are followed rigorously, with adjustments made based on individual health profiles and comorbidities.

Poland has earned a strong reputation across Europe for excellence in bariatric surgery, combining advanced medical technology, highly trained specialists, and exceptional value. Here’s why more international patients are choosing Poland for their weight loss journey:

World-Class Medical Standards

Many hospitals in major Polish cities like Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, and Poznań are accredited by international bodies or meet EU healthcare quality benchmarks. These centers use cutting-edge laparoscopic techniques, ensuring minimally invasive procedures, reduced pain, and faster recovery.

Highly Skilled Bariatric Surgeons

Polish surgeons are among the most experienced in Europe, with many having trained internationally and participated in global research. They perform hundreds of bariatric procedures annually, contributing to outstanding success rates and low complication risks.

Affordable Without Compromising Quality

The cost of bariatric surgery in Poland is typically 50–70% lower than in Western Europe or North America—without sacrificing safety or outcomes. This affordability stems from lower operational costs and public-private healthcare efficiencies, not reduced standards.

Comprehensive Patient Support

From the first consultation to long-term follow-up, Polish clinics offer full-service care. Many provide:

• Pre-operative evaluations (blood tests, ECG, endoscopy)
• Nutritional counseling and psychological support
• Multilingual staff and dedicated coordinators for international patients
• All-inclusive packages covering surgery, hospital stay, medications, and even accommodation

This seamless experience allows patients to focus entirely on healing and transformation.

The Proven Benefits of Bariatric Surgery

The impact of bariatric surgery extends far beyond the scale. Clinical studies show that patients experience:

• 60–80% excess weight loss within 18–24 months
• Remission of type 2 diabetes in up to 70–80% of cases
• Improved blood pressure, cholesterol, and cardiovascular health
• Resolution of sleep apnea and reduced snoring
• Reduced joint pain and improved mobility
• Enhanced fertility and hormonal balance
• Lower risk of obesity-related cancers

Beyond physical health, patients report dramatic improvements in self-esteem, mental health, and social engagement—proving that this is not just a surgical procedure, but a life renewal.

Common Bariatric Procedures Offered in Poland

Polish bariatric centers offer all modern, evidence-based procedures, performed laparoscopically for optimal recovery:

1. Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG)

Most popular procedure in Poland

• Removes 80% of the stomach, leaving a banana-shaped sleeve
• Restricts food intake and reduces hunger hormone (ghrelin)
• No intestinal rerouting; lower risk of nutrient deficiencies
• Average excess weight loss: 60–70%

2. Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB)

Gold standard for diabetes resolution

• Creates a small stomach pouch and bypasses part of the small intestine
• Combines restriction and malabsorption with strong metabolic effects
• Highly effective for type 2 diabetes and GERD
• Average excess weight loss: 70% or more

3. Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)

For patients with very high BMI or severe metabolic disease

• Combines sleeve gastrectomy with extensive intestinal bypass
• Highest weight loss potential and diabetes remission rates
• Requires strict lifelong supplementation due to malabsorption

Note on Gastric Banding

Adjustable gastric banding is rarely performed in Poland today due to lower long-term effectiveness and higher reoperation rates compared to sleeve or bypass.

Your Journey to Health: The Polish Bariatric Experience

The process in Poland is structured, supportive, and designed for lasting success:

Phase 1: Pre-Operative Evaluation (3–6 Months)

• Consultations with surgeon, dietitian, and psychologist
• Medical tests (blood work, ECG, endoscopy, imaging)
• Nutrition education and lifestyle coaching
• Pre-surgery liquid diet to shrink the liver

Phase 2: Surgery & Immediate Recovery

• Performed under general anesthesia using laparoscopic techniques
• Hospital stay: 1–3 days
• Begin with clear liquids, progressing to puréed foods

Phase 3: Life After Surgery

• Gradual return to solid foods over 2–3 months
• Lifelong commitment to:
  • Small, protein-rich meals
  • Chewing thoroughly and eating slowly
  • Avoiding sugary, high-fat foods
  • Taking daily vitamin and mineral supplements
• Regular physical activity and follow-up appointments

Polish clinics emphasize long-term care, with follow-ups scheduled at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and annually thereafter.

Safety and Risks: What to Know

Like any major surgery, bariatric procedures carry risks, but modern techniques and experienced teams in Poland ensure high safety standards.

Short-term risks (rare):

• Bleeding, infection, blood clots, leaks at staple lines

Long-term considerations (manageable with care):

• Nutritional deficiencies (prevented with supplements)
• Gallstones (medication can help prevent)
• Dumping syndrome (after bypass, avoid sugary foods)
• Possible weight regain (with poor adherence to lifestyle changes)

Choosing an accredited center with a multidisciplinary team greatly reduces these risks.

Why Choose Poland for Your Bariatric Surgery?

Poland offers a rare combination: European excellence, affordability, and compassion. Whether you’re from Germany, the UK, Scandinavia, or beyond, traveling to Poland for bariatric surgery means:

• Access to JCI-equivalent or nationally accredited hospitals
• Treatment by internationally recognized surgeons
• Transparent, all-inclusive pricing with no hidden costs
• A welcoming, professional environment with English-speaking staff
• The chance to recover in a safe, clean, and culturally rich country

Cities like Warsaw and Kraków are easily accessible by air, with modern hotels and transport options for patients and companions.

Begin Your Transformation in Poland

Bariatric surgery is not a shortcut—it’s a courageous step toward taking control of your health. In Poland, this journey is supported by a healthcare system that values innovation, patient dignity, and long-term wellness.

If you’ve struggled with obesity and its effects, know that a healthier, more vibrant life is possible. With the right care, support, and determination, you can achieve lasting change.

Looking for a specific treatment? Below is a list of the most popular treatments offered by the clinics we work with.

If you don’t see the treatment you’re looking for – don’t worry!

Our partner clinics offer a much wider range of procedures, and we’re here to help you find exactly what you need. Just get in touch with us – we’re confident we can match you with the right clinic and treatment.

1. Sleeve gastrectomy
   • Average length of stay in Poland: 7 – 9 days
   • This is the most commonly chosen bariatric surgery, involving the removal of about 75–80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow portion resembling a “sleeve.” The procedure reduces the stomach volume and affects hunger hormone levels, which promotes faster satiety and lasting weight loss. The procedure is irreversible but very effective in treating obesity and associated diseases. The recovery time is relatively short, and the risk of complications is low.
2. Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass)
   • Average length of stay in Poland: 8 – 10 days
   • Gastric bypass is an advanced procedure that involves dividing the stomach and creating a small pouch that connects directly to the small intestine. This bypasses a significant portion of the stomach and the initial segment of the intestine, which limits the absorption of calories and nutrients. The procedure effectively supports weight loss and treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is regarded as the ‘gold standard’ in bariatric surgery.
3. Mini gastric bypass
   • Average stay in Poland: 7 – 9 days
   • Mini gastric bypass is a simplified and less invasive version of the traditional Roux-en-Y bypass. The procedure combines elements of sleeve gastrectomy and bypasses part of the small intestine, reducing both the amount of food consumed and its absorption. It is effective in reducing body weight and improving metabolic parameters. It is often chosen due to the shorter operation and recovery time.
4. Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)
   • Average stay in Poland: 2 – 4 days
   • ESG is a modern, minimally invasive procedure that involves reducing the volume of the stomach using special stitches placed endoscopically – without the need for skin incisions. The procedure does not require classic surgery or long hospitalization. It leads to a faster feeling of fullness and aids in weight loss. It is particularly recommended for individuals with moderate obesity or as an alternative to traditional surgical methods.
5. Gastric balloon
   • Average stay in Poland: 1 – 2 days
   • The gastric balloon is a medical device placed in the stomach through the mouth using an endoscope. Once filled with liquid, it occupies space in the stomach, limiting the amount of food consumed and extending the feeling of fullness. The procedure is quick and does not require hospitalization. The balloon is usually removed after 6 months, and during this time, the patient learns healthy eating habits.
6. Allurion gastric balloon
   • Average stay in Poland: 1 – 2 days
   • The Allurion balloon is an innovative solution that requires neither endoscopy nor anesthesia. The balloon is swallowed in the form of a capsule, then it fills itself with fluid in the stomach, where it remains for about 16 weeks. It helps control appetite, restricts the amount of food consumed, and promotes weight loss. It is comfortable and well-tolerated by patients.
7. Revision of bariatric procedures
   • Average stay in Poland: 10 – 14 days
   • Bariatric revision is a procedure performed on patients whose previous operation did not yield the expected results or where complications have arisen. It may involve a technical correction of the original procedure or converting it into another type of surgery. The goal is to restore the effectiveness of obesity treatment and improve the patient’s quality of life. It requires an individual approach and detailed diagnostics.
8. Allurion Program by KCM Clinic
   • Average stay in Poland: 1 – 3 days
   • The Allurion Program by KCM Clinic is an innovative, non-surgical method for supporting weight loss, aimed at individuals who want to lose weight safely and effectively without surgery. A key element of the program is the Allurion gastric balloon, which the patient swallows in the form of a capsule – without the need for endoscopy, anesthesia, or hospitalization. Once inflated, the balloon takes up space in the stomach, allowing the patient to feel full faster and consume smaller amounts of food. The program lasts about 6 months and includes comprehensive care from a team of specialists: a doctor, a clinical dietitian, and a patient caregiver. Participants in the program also have access to the Allurion smart scale and a mobile app that support tracking progress and maintaining motivation. With a personalized approach and modern technology, patients lose an average of 10-15% of their body weight in a comfortable and controlled manner.