The purpose of a bariatric surgery is to facilitate your weight loss and improve the quality of your life. Although most weight loss surgeries have positive outcomes, there are times when the procedure has to be reversed due to complications, calling for revision weight loss surgery. Dr. Kukreja at Minimally Invasive Surgery Associates has performed numerous revisional bariatric operations, for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the signs that point towards the need for revision bariatric surgery:

Failure in achieving weight loss goals

Weight regain after a weight loss surgery

Prominent heartburn or acid reflux

Frequent nausea and vomiting

Trouble swallowing

Although revision weight loss surgery may be essential in certain cases, it is important to remember that it involves more risks compared to first-time surgery. That is the reason patients must consult an experienced bariatric surgery expert who can assess possible risks and benefits and suggest a suitable course of action. In many situations, we can work with your insurance company so they will help to pay when needed.

Lap Band Revision – Many individuals had lap bands placed in the hope of losing weight, but now suffer from various lap band problems. Some are now having difficulty swallowing, food may get stuck frequently, or they may suffer with frequent vomiting, often unexpectedly. Worse yet, the lap band may have slipped up or down on the stomach and make it difficult or impossible for the stomach to empty. In rare cases, the lap band has eroded or “cut through” the stomach. In any of these situations, Dr. Kukreja can remove the lap band (usually through minimally invasive techniques) and help with the offending symptoms, and determine additional weight loss plans or procedures as necessary.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Revision for failed weight loss – it’s not common, but some patients need more weight loss than they were able to achieve with a sleeve gastrectomy. Or, their diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, or joint disease persist after their sleeve gastrectomy. In the setting of a failed sleeve, Dr. Kukreja has various options. He can offer medications and diet plans to continue the weight loss process, or, these patients can be converted to either gastric bypass or duodenal switch. In most circumstances, this can be achieved laparoscopically or robotically.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Revision for Heartburn – In as many as 15% of patients, there can be worse heartburn after sleeve gastrectomy, especially right after the procedure. If this persists, hope is not lost. Such patients may be candidates for a hiatal hernia repair (if present) with magnetic sphincter augmentation, also known as LINX. Other patients can be converted to a gastric bypass to help with additional weight loss and the heartburn problems

Gastric Bypass Weight Regain – it is uncommon, but it can happen. We sometimes see that the stomach pouch gets too large or the connection between the stomach and small intestine opens up, causing the patient to feel more hungry and not get full off a reasonable portion of food causing them to regain weight. In certain circumstances, this can be remedied through an endoscopic procedure (camera down the mouth) to tighten these areas up and promote greater weight loss.

Need Revision Weight Loss Surgery? We Can Help!

No matter the type of weight loss surgery you have undergone, if you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, or any other discomfort, get in touch with us, immediately. Consult Dr. Sachin Kukreja to determine if a revisional procedure is right for you. To schedule an appointment, simply call 469-620-0222 or fill out our online appointment form.