Revisional Surgery

Revisional bariatric surgery refers to a surgical procedure performed on patients who have already undergone weight loss surgery but require further intervention due to inadequate weight loss or other complications. Dr Robertson has a specialised interest in the field of revisional bariatric surgery.

Revisional bariatric surgery may be necessary if you experience weight regain or inadequate weight loss after your initial weight loss surgery. It may also be required if you develop complications such as reflux or stricture following sleeve gastrectomy or gastric band placement.

The most common types of revisional bariatric surgery include:

• Gastric band removal: Gastric banding is a reversible weight loss surgery, but some patients experience complications such as band erosion, slippage or intolerance. In these cases, removal of the band is necessary.

• Surgery for reflux: Patients who undergo weight loss surgery such as gastric banding or sleeve gastrectomy may develop gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) due to changes in the anatomy of the stomach. Surgery for reflux can alleviate symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation.

• Surgery for weight regain: If you experience significant weight regain after weight loss surgery, revisional surgery may be required. This can involve conversion to a different procedure, such as gastric bypass, SADI or DS to achieve better weight loss outcomes.

Revisional bariatric surgery is generally considered safe, but there are risks involved with any surgery.

• These include bleeding, infection, and anesthesia-related complications.
• In addition, revisional surgery may carry a higher risk of complications compared to the initial weight loss surgery due to changes in anatomy and scar tissue.

The recovery process for revisional bariatric surgery may be longer than the initial surgery, and you may require a longer hospital stay. You will need to follow a strict dietary and exercise plan to ensure proper healing and successful weight loss.