Revision Surgery

Revision of Non-responder Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a successful tool for combating obesity and weight gain. However, some patients may need a secondary, or revisionary procedure.

Our clinic has substantial experience in many forms of Revision Bariatric surgery. 

Generally, we advise waiting three months between removal of lap band before undertaking further surgery such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass.

Types of Revision Weight Loss Surgery

We regularly perform revisional surgery including 
  • Band removal for intolerance or inadequate weight loss/weight regain
  • Converting band to gastric sleeve or gastric bypass
  • Converting gastric sleeve to re-sleeve
  • Converting gastric sleeve to gastric bypass
  • Gastric bypass revision: to make an enlarged pouch smaller
  • Placement of a gastric band around the pouch to help with better restriction

Gastric Band Removal

What is the Gastric Band?

The Adjustable Gastric Band – often called the Gastric Band or simply called Lap Band – involves an inflatable band that is placed around the upper portion of the stomach, creating a small stomach pouch above the band, and the rest of the stomach below the band.

Removal of A Gastric Band

Although the gastric band is designed for long-term use, it is quite simple and quick to have it removed if desired.

The procedure will still involve 

  • laparoscopic surgery, and
  • general anaesthetic


The stomach then generally returns to its original shape once the band is removed. 


This reversibility is a key advantage of the gastric band over other weight loss procedures, and appeals to many patients.  If removed though, your hunger and appetite usually return to their previous level, and as a result your weight may then go back up.

Is Revision of Non-responder Weight Loss Surgery Right for Me?

There are several reasons that a patient may need revision surgery:
  • Inadequate weight loss.
  • Weight Regain.
  • Persistent comorbid health conditions.
  • Complications after weight loss surgery.

Advantages of Revision or Non-responder Weight Loss Surgery

Dr Links is specialised in revision weight loss surgeries, but there are increased risks associated with secondary surgery. So patients will need to carefully consider whether it is the right option for them.


Factors that may complicate revision surgery include:

 

  • Extended surgery.
  • Blood loss.
  • Less likely but still the need for open surgery in some occasions, instead of the less invasive laparoscopic approach.
  • increased risk of infection and leaking.

 

Preparing for Revision or Non-responder Weight Loss Surgery

Preparations for surgery will depend on the exact surgery needed. Your surgeon will go over specific instructions, but generally, patients will need to:
  • Avoid eating after midnight, the day before surgery.
  • Ask a friend or family member to be at the hospital for support and comfort. 
Before the Band Revision procedure your surgeon will run a series of tests to ensure that patients are ready for surgery.

The surgeon will go over the specific instructions for preoperative care, but generally patients will need to:
  • Go on a liquid diet two or more weeks before surgery (depending on body mass index).
  • Avoid eating after midnight, the day before surgery.
  • Ask a friend or family member to be at the hospital for support and comfort. 
Patients may also want to purchase the foods, drinks, and medications they will require after surgery.

What is involved in Revision or Non-responder Weight Loss Surgery?

The secondary procedure will depend on the specific needs and health problems of the patient. 

Your surgeon will discuss potential treatments with the patient and help them decide the surgical approach best suited to their circumstances.

Generally, removal of lap bands will mean one overnight stay in the hospital if all goes well this procedure can be done as a day case procedure.

The Band Removal procedure involves several steps:
  • The surgeon makes small incisions in the patient’s stomach. 
  • Specialised instruments, including a lighted camera, and the adjustable silicone band are then inserted through these incisions.
  • The camera transmits a live feed, enabling the surgeon to carefully secure the band around the upper part of the stomach with sutures.
  • The band and connecting ports are removed and 
  • The incisions are closed

What to Expect After Revision for Non-responder Weight Loss Surgery

Postoperative procedures and instructions will vary depending on the surgery. Most patients will need to take time off work and prepare for several weeks of rest. Typically patients should also expect to return to a post-gastric surgery diet of liquid and pureed foods.

Following Band Removal surgery patients will need to:
  • Apply for 3-4 day off work,
  • Follow a cautious diet for the first week
It is recommend that patients also take the these steps to facilitate treatment and recovery:
  • Follow a healthy diet.
  • Exercise regularly.
Generally, weight loss will be less extensive after revision surgery, compared to primary surgical procedures.

Your surgeon will discuss the specifics of postoperative care with every patient.

What are the Cost and Funding Options for Revision or Non-responder Weight Loss Surgery?

There are a number of payment options available for patients depending on the surgery procedure, their financial circumstances and insurance status. Our practice will be able to provide a more detailed quote after consultation. 


There are a number of factors which may influence the final cost of surgery including hospital fees and the price of medications. 

Your surgeon will be able to provide a more detailed quote after consultation and o ur Practice offers payment plans for patients.