Do I need Bariatric Revision Surgery?
Sometimes, problems can occur with bariatric surgery, making it less effective than it could otherwise be. In these cases, revision surgery, or a fix of an original bariatric surgery, can result in the weight loss you desire. It is important to consult a qualified bariatric surgeon to assist you in understanding your options.
Indicators of Need for Revision Surgery
The need for bariatric revision surgery is usually based on two issues: the patient is not losing the desired weight, or is even gaining weight; or the patient is experiencing some medical complication. Metabolic issues are typically ruled out first. Patients are usually asked to keep a log of their food intake. If the patient is following the guidelines laid out by their doctor for diet, and there is still an issue with weight loss, then it’s time to look for mechanical reasons for failure.
Mechanical Failure
When considering if you need revision surgery, your surgeon will take into account which type of original procedure you underwent. Some surgeries, like gastric bypass, have higher incidences of problems or complications which would necessitate a fix. With gastric bypass or gastric sleeve, your stomach pouch maybe too large, which can cause you to experience unsatisfactory weight loss results. Adjustable gastric bands can experience slippage, where the band moves, which allows the stomach pouch to grow larger.
Medical Complications
Another indicator of the need for revision surgery includes medical complications experienced by the patient. They include:
- Ulcers
- Stricture
- Malnutrition
- Intense dumping syndrome
For LAP-BAND®/REALIZE® procedures, patients can experience:
- Erosion- The gastric band causes a hole to be worn into the stomach. This may cause vomiting of blood.
- Port infection- The port surgeons use to adjust the band can also become infected.
If you experience any of these complications, you should call your doctor immediately.
Original Surgeon’s Experience
Another factor in revision surgery is the experience held by the original bariatric surgeon at the time of surgery. Inexperienced surgeons may create pouches that are too large. Laparoscopic gastric bypass is a particularly challenging procedure for new surgeons. An experienced bariatric surgeon can review your current situation and give you the best options for success.
Potential Risks with Revision Surgery
In many cases, revision surgery can have higher risks than the initial weight loss surgery. Bariatric revision surgery is typically longer in duration. In some cases, the procedure requires open incisions, involves greater loss of blood, and has higher chances of exposing the patient to leak and infection.
Surgical Weight Management Solutions can help you with Revision Surgery
When you decided on your original surgery, you committed yourself to a road leading to better health and higher energy and self-esteem. Revision surgery can put you back on that road. If you need more information regarding bariatric revision surgery in Dallas/Fort Worth, it’s crucial that you choose an experienced bariatric surgeon to perform the procedure. Dr. Matin has years of experience in performing weight loss surgery. If you’re ready to discuss your options, please call Surgical Weight Management Solutions at 877-459-8080 today. If you prefer, please fill out the online form and one of our patient advocates will follow up with you shortly!
