What Is Mini Gastric Bypass?
Mini gastric bypass, officially known as One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB), is a simplified bariatric procedure that creates a long, narrow stomach pouch and connects it to the small intestine with a single anastomosis (connection). Unlike traditional Roux-en-Y bypass which requires two intestinal connections, the OAGB uses only one omega-loop connection, reducing operative time by 30-40% and lowering complication risk.
First described by Dr. Robert Rutledge in 2001, the OAGB has gained endorsement from the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) and is now performed at major bariatric centers worldwide, including American Hospital Istanbul. Studies show excess weight loss of 65-75% at 5 years, with excellent metabolic outcomes comparable to traditional bypass.
Mini vs Traditional Gastric Bypass
- Operative time: OAGB 45-60 minutes vs RYGB 60-90 minutes
- Anastomoses: OAGB has 1 connection vs RYGB has 2 connections
- Complication rate: OAGB 2-4% vs RYGB 3-6%
- Excess weight loss: OAGB 65-75% vs RYGB 70-80% at 5 years
- Reversibility: OAGB is technically easier to reverse
- Bile reflux risk: OAGB has slightly higher bile reflux incidence (2-5%)
- Diabetes resolution: Both achieve 85-95% resolution rates
Cost Comparison by Country
Mini gastric bypass typically costs 10-20% less than traditional Roux-en-Y due to shorter operative time and simpler technique. In the US, prices range from $18,000 to $30,000. Abroad, patients can access the same procedure at accredited hospitals like Liv Hospital Istanbul for $3,000-$8,000 depending on the country, representing savings of 55-83%.
Mini Gastric Bypass Cost Comparison 2025
| Country | Procedure Cost | All-Inclusive Package | Savings vs USA |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | $18,000 - $30,000 | $22,000 - $35,000 | — |
| Turkey | $3,500 - $5,500 | $4,500 - $7,000 | Up to 80% |
| Mexico | $4,500 - $6,500 | $5,500 - $8,000 | Up to 75% |
| India | $3,000 - $5,000 | $3,500 - $6,000 | Up to 83% |
| Thailand | $8,500 - $12,000 | $10,000 - $14,000 | Up to 55% |
| Czech Republic | $5,500 - $8,000 | $6,500 - $9,500 | Up to 70% |
| Colombia | $4,000 - $6,000 | $5,000 - $7,500 | Up to 75% |
Mini gastric bypass is sometimes priced similarly to traditional bypass. All-inclusive packages include surgeon fees, hospital stay, anesthesia, and post-operative care.
Candidacy Requirements
Candidates for mini gastric bypass typically need a BMI of 35 or higher, or BMI 30-35 with obesity-related comorbidities. The OAGB may be particularly suitable for patients with severe type 2 diabetes due to its strong metabolic effects. Patients with pre-existing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) may be better suited for gastric sleeve, as the OAGB can occasionally worsen reflux symptoms.
Procedure Details & Timeline
The OAGB procedure takes 45-60 minutes under general anesthesia. Through 4-5 laparoscopic incisions, the surgeon creates a long gastric pouch (approximately 15-18cm) and connects it to the jejunum about 200cm from the ligament of Treitz. Hospital stay is 2-3 days. The full medical tourism trip typically takes 7-10 days including pre-operative workup and post-operative recovery.
Outcomes & Clinical Data
A 2023 meta-analysis of 15,000 OAGB patients published in Obesity Surgery journal reported mean excess weight loss of 72.3% at 3 years and 67.1% at 5 years. Type 2 diabetes resolution occurred in 89.4% of patients, hypertension improved in 78%, and dyslipidemia resolved in 82%. The overall complication rate was 3.2%, with a 30-day mortality rate of 0.08%.
My surgeon recommended the mini bypass over the traditional one because of my diabetes. The simpler procedure meant less time in surgery and faster recovery. I have lost 95 pounds and my HbA1c went from 9.2 to 5.4 — completely off all diabetes medications.
Michael R., Canada — Mini Gastric Bypass in Turkey
Finding a Qualified Surgeon
When selecting a surgeon for OAGB abroad, verify their specific training and experience with the one-anastomosis technique. The best surgeons, such as those at Koç University Hospital, will have completed IFSO-approved fellowship training, published peer-reviewed research on OAGB outcomes, and performed at least 200 OAGB procedures. Request the surgeon's personal complication rate data and patient outcome statistics.
Find experienced OAGB surgeons at accredited international bariatric centers.
Search Bariatric ClinicsFrequently Asked Questions
Is mini gastric bypass safer than traditional bypass?
The OAGB has a slightly lower overall complication rate (2-4% vs 3-6%) due to its simpler single-connection design and shorter operative time. However, both procedures are considered safe at high-volume centers with experienced surgeons.
How much weight will I lose with mini gastric bypass?
Average excess weight loss is 65-75% within the first 2 years. Results are comparable to traditional Roux-en-Y bypass. A patient who is 100 pounds overweight can expect to lose 65-75 pounds.
Does mini gastric bypass cause bile reflux?
Bile reflux is a potential concern with OAGB, occurring in approximately 2-5% of patients. Surgeons mitigate this risk by positioning the intestinal connection at an appropriate distance. If bile reflux develops, the procedure can be converted to a traditional Roux-en-Y configuration.
Can mini gastric bypass be reversed?
Yes, the OAGB is technically easier to reverse than traditional Roux-en-Y because it involves only one anastomosis. Reversal is rare but can be performed if medically necessary.
What vitamins do I need after mini gastric bypass?
Lifelong supplementation is required including a bariatric multivitamin, calcium citrate, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iron. The malabsorptive component of OAGB makes these supplements essential to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
How long is the hospital stay for mini gastric bypass abroad?
Typical hospital stay is 2-3 days, which is slightly shorter than traditional bypass (3-4 days). Total trip duration is 7-10 days to allow for pre-operative testing and post-operative recovery.