A Day in the Life of Dr. Rodrigo Villagrán: Surgeon, Educator, Researcher

Every day, people across Chile wake up and go about their morning routines, but for Dr. Rodrigo Villagrán, the start of the day means diving into a world of healing, science, and teaching. As one of Chile’s leading bariatric surgeons, Dr. Villagrán has dedicated his life to helping people take back control of their health. Whether he's operating in Santiago or Antofagasta, mentoring medical students, or reviewing clinical research, his schedule is packed with purpose.

Morning at the Clinic: A Calm Start Before the Storm

Dr. Rodrigo Villagrán begins his day early. By 7:00 AM, he is already dressed in scrubs and reviewing patient files at Clínica Bupa in Santiago or Clínica Bupa Antofagasta, depending on his rotation. His attention to detail and deep understanding of bariatric surgery come through as he prepares for the day’s procedures.

The quiet of early morning provides a space to focus on each patient's needs. Dr. Villagrán takes this time to assess lab results, imaging, and surgical plans. For him, safety is not just a checklist—it's the foundation of every decision. He has often emphasized in interviews that "patient safety is paramount," especially in obesity surgery, where the margin for error is slim.

Into the Operating Room: Precision Meets Passion

By mid-morning, the surgical wing is bustling. Nurses, anesthesiologists, and assistants coordinate in a well-practiced rhythm. At the center of it all is Dr. Villagrán. With decades of experience in bariatric surgery, he performs procedures like laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomies and gastric bypasses with surgical precision.

One of his recent contributions to the field includes a complex reversion procedure, switching from a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass to a sleeve gastrectomy. This technique, used in cases of severe anemia and malnutrition, showcases his innovative approach to tackling challenges that arise long after a patient’s initial surgery.

In every operation, his calm demeanor, steady hands, and focused energy are evident. It's a dance of skill and care, and he leads it with grace.

From Operating Table to Classroom: A Lifelong Teacher

Not long after finishing surgeries, Dr. Villagrán shifts gears. He heads to the University of Antofagasta, where he teaches 4th-year medical students and supervises 7th-year interns. Education is a responsibility he holds close to heart.

He encourages his students not just to memorize facts but to understand the human body, the patient's needs, and the art behind medicine. His students describe him as approachable, passionate, and deeply invested in their growth. He believes in the future of medicine and works hard to shape it.

Between 2010 and 2012, he served as a mentor and educator for young doctors, making sure they gain real-world skills while staying grounded in ethics and empathy. His academic legacy is one of knowledge, but more importantly, of values.

Midday Research: Merging Science and Surgery

While most people pause for lunch, Dr. Villagrán often dives into research. He contributes to several medical journals and research databases, including Google Scholar and ResearchGate. His published studies are clear evidence of his commitment to improving patient outcomes.

His scientific interests include obesity surgery in adolescents, diabetes patients, and individuals with BMI between 30-35. These groups are often overlooked, and Dr. Villagrán is determined to give them a voice through science.

He uses clinical data and real patient experiences to explore better solutions. Every statistic, every conclusion, is aimed at one thing: making surgery safer and more effective.

Afternoon Consultations: Face-to-Face with Change

In the afternoon, Dr. Villagrán sees patients. These appointments are often emotional. For many patients, bariatric surgery is not just a procedure—it's a turning point. They arrive carrying years of health struggles, often having tried countless diets and treatments.

Dr. Villagrán listens. He explains things in simple terms. He doesn’t rush. His calm, understanding nature puts people at ease. He helps them understand what to expect, how to prepare, and what recovery will look like.

His practice at Clinyco, the Nutrition and Obesity Surgery Center, has been ongoing since 2010. Here, he teams up with nutritionists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals to give patients complete support. It’s not just about surgery—it’s about lasting change.

Evening Routines: Family, Reflection, and Online Engagement

As the day winds down, Dr. Villagrán returns home, often reflecting on the lives he touched that day. But his work doesn’t stop at the clinic door. He stays connected with his community through social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

On Instagram, he shares informative posts, patient success stories, and insights into his personal life. His TikTok videos are short, educational, and engaging—ideal for reaching younger audiences. These platforms allow him to extend his mission beyond the hospital walls.

Through social media, he spreads awareness about obesity, metabolic health, and the power of surgical intervention. More than that, he helps break the stigma. His tone is always respectful, professional, and filled with hope.

The Man Behind the Scrubs: Early Life and Education

Born on August 9, 1979, Rodrigo Villagrán grew up with a strong sense of purpose. He attended the Sacred Heart School, a French Order institution known for its academic discipline. It was here he built the foundation of curiosity and compassion that would later define his career.

He studied general medicine at the University of Concepción from 1998 to 2004, then specialized in general surgery from 2005 to 2008. During this time, he became Chief Resident, already showing signs of leadership.

In 2009, he completed a Bariatric Surgery Fellowship at Clínica Las Condes in Santiago. This marked the beginning of his journey into a field that would benefit thousands of lives.

Service and Recognition: A Life of Dedication

From 2010 onward, Dr. Villagrán worked in both the Gastrointestinal Surgery and Emergency Surgery Departments at Hospital of Antofagasta. Balancing 50 hours a week between both departments, he served with passion and precision.

His professional contributions have earned him places in major medical societies:

Surgeons of Chile Society

• Bariatric Department of Surgeons Society of Chile
• IFSO (International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity)
• ASMBS (American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery)

In 2014, he was awarded the IFSO Scholarship—a recognition of his research and dedication to the field.

Offices and Outreach: Reaching More People Across Chile

Dr. Villagrán practices in both Santiago and Antofagasta. In Santiago, he operates from Clínica BUPA at Av. Departamental 1455, in La Florida. In Antofagasta, his offices are located on Edmundo Pérez Zujovic 5440, floors 3 and 4.

This dual-location practice helps him reach a wide range of patients across Chile. Despite the long travel hours and intense workload, he remains driven by the impact he can make.

Final Thoughts: A Life Devoted to Healing

Dr. Rodrigo Villagrán isn’t just a surgeon. He’s a teacher, a researcher, a mentor, and a voice of support for those navigating obesity and health challenges. Each part of his day—from morning surgeries to evening Instagram posts—is a step toward a healthier community.

In a world where healthcare is becoming more complex, professionals like Dr. Villagrán shine as examples of dedication and heart. His day might be packed, but his mission is clear: help, heal, and educate—one life at a time.