Diego Maradona is recovering well and "feeling fine" after undergoing gastric bypass surgery for the second time.
Maradona, 55, is aiming to lose 30 to 35 kilograms (66 to 77 pounds) over the next year and hopes to lose 75 kilograms in total, Dr Carlos Felipe Chaux said.
Dr Chaux has performed both of Maradona's gastric surgery, the first of which was 10 years ago in Colombia, and said the new surgery -- which took place in the Venezuelan city of Maracaibo -- was needed "because he had gained weight, and to correct a gastrogastric fistula."
Dr Chaux told AFP: "He told me he was feeling fine, that he wasn't in any pain. He is walking and in good spirits. He's in very good physical condition and very good health. His heart is very well and all his vital signs are normal."
The Argentina legend will remain in Venezuela for 12 to 15 days, first in Maracaibo before being transferred to the capital Caracas.
"He loves this country and its people love him. Plus Maracaibo is on the seashore, which he likes," Dr Chaux added.
Maradona has suffered a series of health problems over the years ranging from drug addiction and alcoholism to obesity.