What is revision weight loss surgery?
Revision weight loss surgery modifies or changes a previous bariatric surgery. Most bariatric surgery patients have long-term success with their procedure. However, some people develop problems. Revision surgery can help resolve issues that develop following the first surgery. There are several types of revision surgeries. The one that is right for you will depend on what kind of bariatric surgery you originally had. Reoperative bariatric surgery and revision bariatric surgery are other names for these procedures.
Gastric band revision is the most common type of revision surgery. In the past, gastric banding was very popular. The band restricts the amount of food you can eat. However, the band can slip or loosen over time. If this occurs, revision options include sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass.
Gastric sleeve revision is not as common. However, in some people, the stomach size can double over time after sleeve gastrectomy. This leads to increased food intake. Revision options include re-sleeving, gastric bypass, and duodenal switch surgery.
Gastric bypass revision is also relatively uncommon. Like sleeve gastrectomy, it is possible for the stomach to stretch over time. There are three main options to revise a gastric bypass. This includes placing a gastric band, reducing the stomach size with a sleeve procedure, and bypassing more of the small intestine. Some surgeons may also offer a procedure to reduce the opening between the stomach and small intestine.
The decision to undergo revision weight loss surgery is a major decision as it is considered a riskier surgery than first time weight loss surgery. Since every patient is unique, you will need to talk to your surgeon about options available for your particular situation based on your previous surgery and the options available for revision.
Here we answer some frequently asked questions about revisional bariatric surgery:
You may qualify for revisional weight loss surgery if your original bariatric procedure did not result in optimal weight loss, or if you’ve regained a significant amount of your excess body weight. Regaining a small amount of weight is common after all bariatric surgeries.
Results from revisional bariatric surgery vary, but weight loss is generally less substantial than after your original procedure.
Your results also depend on your original bariatric procedure. Many patients who initially had a lap band can expect significant weight loss after a conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.
Revisional weight loss surgery is more complex and has a higher risk for complications than an initial bariatric procedure. However, it is a safe and effective choice when performed by experienced bariatric surgeons, such as those at Florida Surgery and Weight Loss Center
We often work with patients who had their first bariatric surgery performed elsewhere.
Bariatric surgery (including gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, gastric balloon, revisional surgery) is tax deductible as long as your total yearly health-related costs exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). This would require you to itemize your deductions on your tax return, and not take the standard deduction
Want to learn more about our Medical Weight Management program?
If you’re ready to feel healthy again, we’re ready to help you. You may have insurance coverage available to help cover the cost of surgery. Start the insurance verification process now
Please call (754) 225-2232 and speak with Patient Coordinator, or fill out the form at the top and we will contact you at your convenience.
