Revision weight loss surgery

This is also known as ‘redo surgery’: it is called for when weight loss has been insufficient or weight has been regained. It is also performed to correct complications from gastric banding or gastric bypass. The two most common types of complications are band slippage and marginal ulcers (gastric bypass).

If you fall into one of these categories than it is an option: but, it is not an automatic right and because it is a much more complex procedure, is considered high risk. If you have regained weight then this will be looked at by your surgeon and aftercare team. If it is a small gain then this is normal and they will be able to advise you about adjusting your diet and exercise routine to accommodate this change. This can mean increasing your activity levels whilst maintaining a set calorie intake.

If we are talking about a substantial weight gain then it is worth speaking to your surgeon about a revision procedure.

How does it work?

If you have had a gastric band but this has failed to work or has not achieved the results you wanted then a gastric bypass might be an option. If you have undergone a gastric bypass but this has failed to work for whatever reason then there is the option of a greater malabsorptive procedure. This can mean a duodenal switch or a biliopancreatic diversion (BPD/DS).

Note: there is another type of procedure which is considered revolutionary and, unproven by others. It is called ‘StomaphyX’ and basically, involves the surgeon using an endoscope to insert a special ‘fastener’ into the stomach. This device is then used to form a pleat at the entrance to the stomach and at the exit (called the stoma) into the small intestine.

If the stomach has stretched some time after a gastric bypass then this procedure may help to shrink it back to the original bypass size.

This is a new revision technique and the jury is still out as regards its efficiency and effectiveness.