Bariatric surgery has proven to be a life-changing procedure for countless individuals struggling with obesity. However, like any medical intervention, it doesn’t always yield the desired results for every patient. For some, initial bariatric surgery may not lead to significant weight loss or may result in complications that require further intervention. This is where revisional bariatric surgery comes into play. As a bariatric surgeon with over a decade of experience and more than 10,000 successful surgeries, I want to shed light on this important topic to help patients understand what revisional bariatric surgery is, who might need it, when it’s appropriate, and where to seek help.
What is Revisional Bariatric Surgery?
Revisional bariatric surgery refers to a secondary surgical procedure performed on patients who have already undergone bariatric surgery but have not achieved the expected results or have experienced complications. The goal of revisional surgery is to correct or enhance the effects of the initial surgery, leading to better outcomes in terms of weight loss, health improvement, and quality of life.
There are several reasons why a patient might need a revision. These include:
Inadequate Weight Loss or Weight Regain: Some patients may not lose as much weight as anticipated after their initial surgery, or they may regain weight over time. Studies have shown that up to 20% of patients may experience insufficient weight loss or significant weight regain following bariatric surgery .
Complications: Some patients may develop complications such as strictures, ulcers, or severe acid reflux, which necessitate a revisional procedure to correct the issues.
Mechanical Failures: In some cases, the initial surgery may not be structurally sound. For example, a gastric band might slip or erode, or a gastric pouch may enlarge, leading to the need for a revision.
Who Might Need Revisional Bariatric Surgery?
Identifying candidates for revisional bariatric surgery requires careful evaluation by a qualified bariatric surgeon. Generally, candidates fall into one or more of the following categories:
Patients with Inadequate Weight Loss or Weight Regain:
- Those who have not achieved at least 50% of their excess weight loss (EWL) after the initial surgery.
- Patients who have regained a significant amount of weight after reaching their lowest post-surgery weight.
Patients with Complications from the Initial Surgery:
- Individuals experiencing severe or chronic complications such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), malnutrition, or dumping syndrome.
- Patients who have developed new health issues related to the original surgery, such as internal hernias or chronic abdominal pain.
Patients with Mechanical or Technical Failures:
- Cases where the initial surgical procedure has failed mechanically, such as band slippage in laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) or staple line dehiscence in gastric bypass.
Patients Seeking a Different Procedure:
- Some patients may desire to switch from one type of bariatric surgery to another. For instance, a patient who initially had a gastric band may choose to revise to a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass for better results.
A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the best course of action. This typically involves a detailed medical history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, contrast radiography, or CT scans.
When is Revisional Bariatric Surgery Appropriate?
Timing is critical when considering revisional bariatric surgery. It is not a decision to be taken lightly, and several factors need to be evaluated:
Time Since Initial Surgery:
- It’s generally advisable to wait at least 12-18 months after the initial surgery before considering a revision. This allows enough time to determine if the surgery was effective and if the patient is following the necessary lifestyle changes.
Persistent Complications:
- If a patient is experiencing complications that are not resolving with medical treatment, revisional surgery may be necessary sooner rather than later. For example, persistent severe GERD after a gastric sleeve may warrant conversion to a gastric bypass.
Suboptimal Weight Loss or Weight Regain:
- If, after following the recommended diet and exercise plan, a patient has not achieved satisfactory weight loss or has regained a significant amount of weight, it may be time to consider a revision.
Patient’s Overall Health:
- The patient’s overall health and readiness for another surgery must be assessed. Revisional surgery can be more complex and carries higher risks than the initial procedure, so the benefits must outweigh the risks.
Surgical Expertise:
- The availability of an experienced bariatric surgeon who specializes in revision procedures is a crucial factor. Revisional surgery is often more challenging than the initial operation, requiring advanced surgical skills and experience.
Where Should You Seek Revisional Bariatric Surgery?
Choosing the right facility and surgeon for revisional bariatric surgery is paramount to achieving a successful outcome. Here’s what to look for:
Experienced Bariatric Surgeons:
- Look for surgeons who specialize in revisional bariatric surgery and have extensive experience in performing these complex procedures. At Do It Bariatrics, our team, led by me, Dr. Louisiana Valenzuela, has the expertise and experience necessary to handle even the most challenging cases.
Accredited Bariatric Centers:
- Seek out bariatric centers that are accredited by recognized organizations, such as the American College of Surgeons’ Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). Accredited centers are held to the highest standards of care and have the resources to provide comprehensive pre- and post-operative support.
Comprehensive Care Teams:
- Revisional bariatric surgery requires a multidisciplinary approach. Choose a center that offers a full spectrum of care, including nutritionists, psychologists, and support groups to ensure you have the resources you need for success.
State-of-the-Art Facilities:
- Ensure the facility is equipped with the latest technology and adheres to the highest safety standards. At Do It Bariatrics, we operate in a world-class facility that is on route to gaining one of the most prestigious international accreditations, ensuring that our patients receive the best care possible.
Patient Support and Follow-Up:
- Post-operative support is crucial for success. Make sure the bariatric center you choose offers ongoing support, including follow-up appointments, nutritional counseling, and support groups.
Take the Next Step with Confidence
Revisional bariatric surgery is a powerful tool that can help patients who have not achieved their desired outcomes with initial bariatric surgery. Whether due to inadequate weight loss, complications, or mechanical failures, a well-planned revision can lead to significant improvements in health and quality of life. However, it is essential to choose an experienced surgeon and a comprehensive bariatric center to ensure the best possible outcome.
If you believe you might be a candidate for revisional bariatric surgery or if you have any concerns about your initial surgery, I encourage you to take the next step. Schedule a consultation with us at Do It Bariatrics to discuss your options. Our team is here to support you every step of the way on your journey to better health.
References
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). “Bariatric Surgery Procedures.” ASMBS, 2023.
- Schauer, P. R., et al. “Weight Regain after Bariatric Surgery: Etiology and Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, vol. 85, no. 3, 2018, pp. 198-206.
- Madsen, L. R., et al. “Outcomes of Revisional Bariatric Surgery After Failed Primary Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Obesity Surgery, vol. 29, no. 2, 2019, pp. 591-602.
- Gould, J. C., et al. “Guidelines for Perioperative Care in Bariatric Surgery: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Society Recommendations.” World Journal of Surgery, vol. 45, no. 5, 2021, pp. 1199-1210.
- Ponce, J., et al. “Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding: A Meta-Analysis Update of 125,000 Patients.” Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases, vol. 7, no. 2, 2018, pp. 219-226.
- Brethauer, S. A., et al. “Weight Regain and Revisional Bariatric Surgery: The State of the Art.” Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases, vol. 9, no. 1, 2021, pp. 89-98.
