A number of different reasons can lead to the necessity of performing revisional bariatric surgery on a patient who already had weight loss surgery. While many of the weight loss patients need a single operation to treat their obesity and the related co-morbidities (obstructive sleep apnea, heart conditions, respiratory disorders, high levels of cholesterol, high blood pressure, infertility - PCOS, type 2 diabetes, joint pains), there are case in which a second intervention is needed in order to ensure and secure weight loss results and health improvements. Reasons for which an initial surgical weight loss procedure may not be enough include:
- inefficient weight loss
- inefficiency in co-morbidity improvement
- medical complications specifically related to the initial weight-loss surgery
The advanced technology used nowadays in bariatric surgery allows for laparoscopic revisions of all general and bariatric surgical procedures. New, less invasive surgical options for the treatment of weight regain in the case of gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y procedure)patients are also available and currently performed with great safety and efficiency. Contact your weight loss surgeon if you experience weight regain and learn about the viable revisional options that work best in your specific case.
The results of revisional weight loss surgery are beneficial from the point of view of co-morbidities, and they always produce amelioration and relief. Weight loss results however, are dependant on a number of factors and because of this, it may happen that weight loss does not happen to the expected degree. Revisional surgery is a special option that needs to be tailored personally to the needs and conditions of each and every patient. If you believe that your initial weight loss surgery is not effective, consult with an experienced weight loss surgeon able to evaluate the best revisional approach.
Bariatric revisional procedures are covered nowadays by a number of insurance policies, so feel free to seek information.
Dr. Thomas E. Lavin received his medical degree from Medical College of Ohio and completed his General Surgery residency at Ochsner Hospital in New Orleans in 1995. Dr. Lavin is a pioneer in developing laparoscopic surgery.
