In this blog, we want to answer some of the most common questions about revision surgeries, and how to know if it is the right way to go. First off let’s start with: What is a revision surgery?
A revision surgery just means getting a second bariatric surgery as compensation or repair for the first one. It can either be the same surgery just redone or it can be converted to another one, although reversing a surgery also qualifies; all bariatric surgeries can be made into another through a revision.
Most patients will only need a single operation to accomplish the desired weight loss. But there are cases in which one bariatric weight loss surgery does not achieve the goals set initially. Here are a few: Weight loss has been less than originally desired; due to the nature of surgery perhaps the patient was unable to modify eating habits; patients may still have comorbidities that a 2nd surgery may address; choosing the incorrect surgery initially due to specific anatomical characteristics the patient may have; in some cases, there could even exist medical complications from the initial weight loss surgical procedure. Unfortunately, weight loss surgery is not a one size fits all solution but fortunately there are different options available and surgeries can be revised to achieve better results.
It’s important to keep in mind that every patient is different as well as their surgeries; they are custom to the case, given that the surgery might have been done by another surgeon, and the fact that everyone heals differently, and the body changes over time. A surgery that did the job for a certain set of patients does accomplish the exact same achievements for another individual, but sometimes it does not. This is why we would have to analyze each patient’s case to find the best option for them personally.
When should I consider revision surgery?
Weight Regain and/or Inadequate Weight Loss
If you’ve had a hard time or total inadequacy at adapting to the new lifestyle that should be engaged after your particular bariatric procedure, revising to a different procedure may improve your quality of life notoriously.
When a procedure does not properly address your specific metabolic needs, such as diabetes not being resolved with a sleeve and converting to a DS or Bypass.
The anatomical changes happening to the patient’s biology during bariatric surgery are not maintained afterward, like a stretch stoma, slipped band, stretched sleeve, etc.
If you are considering a second procedure, at Mexicali Bariatric Center we are happy to assist you regarding your specific situation or provide any other information about revision surgeries. Please contact us at (888) 344 3916 US Toll-Free or Apply For Surgery