Dr. Rodrigo Villagrán’s journey to becoming one of Chile's most respected bariatric surgeons began long before he ever stepped into an operating room. His path was paved with hard work, academic excellence, and a clear passion for helping others. From his early school days to his current work in Santiago and Antofagasta, Dr. Villagrán’s story reflects the dedication and resilience that defines a true medical professional.
Early School Life at Sacred Heart
Born on August 9, 1979, Rodrigo Villagrán grew up with a curiosity for science and a deep care for people. He attended Sacred Heart School, run by the French Order. This early foundation gave him a strong sense of discipline and service. These values would guide him through his academic life and career.
At Sacred Heart, Rodrigo was not only a good student; he stood out. His school nurtured his early interests in biology and health, and it became clear even then that he was destined for something bigger. His teachers recognized his potential early on and encouraged him to pursue a career in medicine.
University of Concepción: Laying the Medical Foundation
In 1998, Rodrigo Villagrán took his first big step toward his dream by entering the University of Concepción. This university, one of the most prestigious in Chile, became the place where he learned the basics of medicine, ethics, and patient care. For six years, from 1998 to 2004, he studied hard and earned his title as a General Medicine Doctor.
Even as a young student, Dr. Villagrán showed leadership qualities. He was inquisitive, thoughtful, and always eager to help classmates understand difficult topics. After graduating, he knew that general medicine was just the beginning.
Surgical Specialization and Leadership
From 2005 to 2008, he pursued a specialization in General Surgery, also at the University of Concepción. During these years, he gained hands-on experience, working closely with experienced surgeons and diving deep into surgical procedures. He developed a steady hand and a sharp eye—two skills that would later define his career in bariatric surgery.
His leadership skills didn’t go unnoticed. From 2007 to 2008, he was appointed Chief Resident of the General Surgeon Residence program. Being Chief Resident meant more than just a title. It meant responsibility, guiding younger students, and being trusted by his mentors.
Advanced Training in Bariatric Surgery
In 2009, Dr. Villagrán chose to refine his expertise in a growing field: bariatric surgery. He earned a prestigious Bariatric Surgery Fellowship at Clínica Las Condes in Santiago. Here, he focused on surgical methods to treat obesity and metabolic disorders. This training opened a new world for him, one where he could make a lasting difference in people’s lives.
Bariatric surgery is complex. It requires not only technical knowledge but also an understanding of the patient’s physical and emotional journey. Dr. Villagrán quickly became known for his compassionate approach, always putting patient safety and well-being first.
The Move to Antofagasta
After completing his fellowship, Dr. Villagrán began practicing in Antofagasta, a city in northern Chile. In 2010, he became a staff surgeon at the Clínica Antofagasta Bariatric Surgery Program. That same year, he joined the Nutrition and Obesity Surgery Center (Clinyco), where he continues to work to this day.
Antofagasta became more than just a place to work. It became a community he served with care. Between 2010 and 2011, he worked 22 hours a week in the General Surgery Department of the Hospital of Antofagasta, specifically in gastrointestinal surgery. He also devoted 28 hours a week to the hospital's Emergency Surgery Department.
Academic Contributions in Antofagasta
Alongside his medical practice, Dr. Villagrán also gave back through education. From 2010 to 2012, he taught medical students at the University of Antofagasta. He served as a teacher for 4th-year general medicine students and also guided 7th-year interns.
His role as a teacher reflected his deep belief in sharing knowledge. He knew that to shape the future of medicine, you have to train the next generation. Many of his students today are young doctors who were inspired by his mentorship and example.
Research and Global Medical Community
Dr. Villagrán is not just a practitioner; he is also a contributor to the global medical field. His name appears in research databases such as Google Scholar and ResearchGate, where he shares scientific findings and engages with other professionals. One of his recent publications discusses a complex reversal surgery to treat anemia and malnutrition in bariatric patients.
This kind of research is important. It helps other doctors learn from his experience and adopt better, safer surgical techniques. It also shows that Dr. Villagrán remains at the forefront of innovation in bariatric and metabolic surgery.
He is also a member of several scientific societies, including:
Surgeons of Chile Society
Bariatric Department of Surgeons Society of Chile
IFSO (The International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders)
ASMBS (The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery)
These memberships allow him to stay updated on the latest medical developments and to collaborate with surgeons from around the world.
Awards and Recognition
In 2014, Dr. Villagrán received the IFSO Scholarship, a prestigious award given to outstanding professionals in the field of bariatric surgery. This honor reinforced his status as a trusted expert and further opened doors for international collaboration.
Areas of Scientific Interest
Throughout his career, Dr. Villagrán has focused on key areas within bariatric surgery:
Bariatric Surgery in Adolescents
Bariatric Surgery for Patients with Diabetes
Bariatric Surgery in Individuals with BMI 30-35
These topics are vital for advancing treatment options. Dr. Villagrán believes that obesity care is not one-size-fits-all. Instead, it requires customized solutions based on each patient’s health, age, and unique challenges.
Conclusion: A Journey Rooted in Purpose
Tracing Dr. Rodrigo Villagrán’s roots makes it clear that his career is built on a strong foundation of education, compassion, and commitment. From Sacred Heart School to the operating rooms of Santiago and Antofagasta, his story is one of purpose and passion.
By combining clinical skills with a human touch, Dr. Villagrán continues to change lives every day. His journey reminds us that true success begins with the courage to follow your calling—and the heart to help others along the way.