Dr. Jacobo Zafrani
Weight-Loss & Metabolic Surgery · Minimally Invasive Surgery
Hip, Knee & Shoulder Reconstruction · Direct Anterior Hip Replacement
Dr. Jacobo Zafrani is one of Costa Rica’s most experienced bariatric and metabolic surgeons, known for minimally invasive techniques and long-term weight-loss outcomes. He has been a general and bariatric surgeon at Hospital Clínica Bíblica since 2004 and has performed well over 3,500 bariatric procedures, averaging around 300 weight-loss surgeries per year.
He was among the first surgeons in Central America to perform metabolic surgery, and continues to lead multicenter research on outcomes in this field.
Areas of Expertise
Advanced bariatric and minimally invasive surgical care dedicated to sustainable weight loss, metabolic improvement, and lasting health outcomes.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Laparoscopic gastric bypass designed to promote significant, sustainable weight loss and improvement of obesity-related conditions through advanced minimally invasive techniques.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy performed using modern bariatric protocols to support effective weight reduction with shorter recovery times.
Minimally Invasive Abdominal Surgery
Hernia repair, cholecystectomy, and other advanced laparoscopic abdominal procedures performed with precision and reduced recovery time.
Metabolic Surgery
Surgical treatment for obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, aimed at improving overall metabolic health.
Education & International Training
Present
Argentina · Panama · USA
Ongoing International Training.
Advanced coursework in laparoscopic colorectal surgery, gastric banding, SILS (single-incision laparoscopic surgery), and hernia repair.
2008
United States
Master in Minimally Invasive Bariatric Surgery
Advanced mastery in laparoscopic bariatric procedures, surgical precision techniques, and post-operative metabolic management.
2010
São Paulo, Brazil
Minifellowship in Gastric Bypass & Metabolic Surgery
Advanced mentorship with Dr. Hari P. Bezwada, MD, refining precision in anterior hip replacement techniques and patient-centered surgical protocols.
2006
ALACE – Latin America
Postgraduate Training in Bariatric Surgery
Specialized postgraduate program focused on metabolic and bariatric surgical protocols and obesity treatment strategies.
2005
Sleeve Gastrectomy Training
Cornell University – New York, USAAdvanced bariatric training with Dr. Garnier, pioneer in sleeve gastrectomy techniques, focusing on safe and effective minimally invasive weight-loss surgery.
2004
University of Costa Rica
Specialty in General Surgery
Completed residency in General Surgery with advanced training in abdominal, laparoscopic, and emergency surgical procedures.
1996
UACA University – Costa Rica
Medical Degree (MD)
Graduated as General Practitioner with strong clinical foundation in surgical sciences and internal medicine.
Get in Touch
Have questions about your procedure or recovery timeline?
Our medical coordination team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us to request a personalized treatment evaluation, ask about travel planning, or speak directly with a member of our care team. We respond promptly and confidentially.