130kg man in China dies following stomach surgery, wanted to slim down to impress girlfriend’s parents

130kg man dies after undergoing surgery to slim down to make better impression on his girlfriend’s parents

A 36-year-old man in Henan, China, died days after undergoing gastric bypass surgery he had hoped would help him make a better impression when meeting his girlfriend’s parents.

Mr Li Jiang, who weighed over 130kg, had long struggled with his weight and eating habits.

According to his family, he wanted to “look healthier” before taking the next step in his relationship.

Undergoes gastric bypass ahead of meeting girlfriend’s parents

According to South China Morning Post (SCMP), Mr Li was first admitted to the Ninth People’s Hospital in Zhengzhou on 30 Sept.

Doctors carried out the gastric bypass surgery on 2 Oct.

The procedure was completed without complications, and Mr Li stayed in the ICU before being moved to a general ward the next day.

His brother said Mr Li had been preparing for marriage and believed slimming down would boost his confidence when meeting his girlfriend’s family.

Condition worsens two days after surgery

However, Mr Li’s condition deteriorated sharply on 4 Oct.

At around 6.40am, staff found that he had stopped breathing.

He was rushed back to the ICU for emergency treatment, but he died on 5 Oct from respiratory failure, according to SCMP.

Medical records showed Mr Li had metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and a fatty liver before the surgery.

Family questions surgical assessment

Mr Li’s family questioned whether the hospital had properly evaluated his condition before approving the operation.

They also raised concerns about how quickly doctors reacted when his condition worsened.

However, the hospital told Jimu News that Mr Li met the clinical indications for the procedure.

It said the medical team responded immediately when complications arose.

Both parties have since requested the local Health Commission to conduct an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

Online debate over obesity treatments

The incident sparked discussion on Chinese social media, with many expressing sympathy for the family.

Some users noted that weight-loss surgeries carry inherent risks, while others said Mr Li’s case was a reminder that such procedures should only be taken after careful evaluation.

The hospital stated it would take full responsibility according to the autopsy results and relevant laws.

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