Redo Bariatric Surgery: What You Need to Know and the Key Criteria
Bariatric or weight loss procedure can be a transforming option for individuals struggling with obesity, offering a pathway to improved health and well-being.
However, for some patients, the initial procedure may not give the desired results, leading to the consideration of redo bariatric surgery. This specialized revision surgery aims to address complications, weight regain, or inadequate weight loss from the first procedure.
In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about redo or revision bariatric surgery, including key criteria for determining if you are a suitable candidate.
What is Redo Bariatric Surgery?
Redo or revision bariatric surgery, is a follow-up procedure for people who have already had weight loss surgery but need additional help.
It might be appropriate for you if you’ve had less-than-optimal weight loss or regain, or if you experienced complications from your original procedure.
What are the Reasons for Opting For Redo Bariatric Surgery?
1. Not Enough Weight Loss or Regained Weight
One of the main reasons people consider a redo surgery is insufficient weight loss or regaining weight.
This can happen due to the body adapting to the surgery, changes in eating habits, or other factors that limit the effectiveness of the first procedure. A redo surgery can help restart weight loss by addressing these issues.
2. Complications from the First Surgery
Sometimes the first surgery can lead to complications like infections, leaks, or problems with the way the stomach or intestines were altered.
In these cases, a revisional bariatric surgery is needed to fix what went wrong and ensure the patient’s safety and comfort.
3. Changes in the Stomach
Over time, the stomach can stretch, or the connection between the stomach and intestines can widen, making it easier to eat larger amounts of food, which reduces the effect of the original surgery.
Revisional surgery can adjust or “tighten” the stomach to restore the benefits of the procedure.
4. Difficulty Adapting to Lifestyle Changes
Bariatric surgery is just one part of the journey, and for some, it can be hard to stick to the new lifestyle required for success.
A redo surgery might give individuals a fresh start and help them refocus on their long-term health goals.
5. Managing GERD (Acid Reflux)
For some patients, severe acid reflux (GERD) develops after the initial surgery, especially after a sleeve gastrectomy.
In these cases, a revisional surgery can help, often by converting the sleeve to a gastric bypass, which is better at reducing GERD symptoms.
6. Fixing Nutritional Deficiencies
Certain weight loss surgeries can lead to problems with absorbing important nutrients, which can cause long-term health issues.
If this becomes a serious concern, revisional surgery may be necessary to switch to a procedure that doesn’t interfere as much with nutrition.
What is the Criteria for Redo Bariatric Surgery?
The criteria for redo bariatric surgery vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific type of initial surgery performed.
However, here are some common criteria for redo bariatric surgery:
- Patients who did not achieve their weight loss goals or regained significant weight after the initial procedure may be candidates for revision.
- A thorough medical evaluation, including assessment of any severe health conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension), and nutritional deficiencies is necessary to ensure that the patient is fit for surgery.
- The type of previous bariatric procedure may influence eligibility for specific revision options as some surgeries may be more complex to revise than others.
- While age alone may not disqualify patients, certain health conditions associated with aging can impact eligibility.
Which Bariatric Surgery Can Be Revised?
- Sleeve conversion to Duodenal switch
- Sleeve conversion to Modified switch
- Sleeve conversion to gastric bypass
- Band removal
- Band conversion to sleeve, gastric bypass, duodenal or modified switch
- Gastric bypass revisions
Like the initial surgery itself, considering any of these bariatric revisions will involve assessing the complication rate of the procedure, your particular weight loss goals and factors such as base metabolic rate and physical condition.
Consult Dr Nikolas Valsamidis for Redo Bariatric Surgery in Dubai
Dr. Nikolas Valsamidis is a bariatric surgeon with a focus on revisional bariatric procedures. He provides personalized assessments and tailored solutions to meet each patient’s unique needs. The process begins with a thorough evaluation that includes your medical history, current health status, and specifics about your previous bariatric surgery.
This comprehensive approach ensures that he fully understands your situation before recommending the best course of action.
FAQ’S
1. When is redo bariatric surgery necessary?
Redo surgery may be necessary for individuals who experience weight regain, insufficient weight loss, or complications such as leaks, obstructions, or intolerances to certain foods after their initial procedure.
2. What are the risks associated with redo bariatric surgery?
Risks may include infection, bleeding, complications related to anesthesia, and the possibility of further weight regain. The risks are often higher than the initial surgery due to scar tissue and changes in anatomy.
3. What is the expected weight loss after redo bariatric surgery?
Expected weight loss varies by individual and the type of procedure. Patients can generally expect to lose a significant amount of weight, but results may not be as dramatic as the first surgery.
