Gastric Sleeve Revisions – What You Need to Know
The gastric sleeve or sleeve gastrectomy surgery is a popular weight loss procedure that removes a large portion of the stomach, reducing its capacity and helping patients to feel fuller faster. In addition, the procedure prompts hormonal changes that assist with weight loss. While it is generally successful in helping people reach their desired weight, some patients may require a revisional procedure at some point. A recent study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that the most common reason for gastric sleeve revision is failure to achieve desired weight loss results and the most frequent revisional procedure was gastric bypass.
It’s important for anyone considering gastric sleeve to be aware of the possibility of needing a revisional procedure if weight regain occurs and the patient is unable to effectively lose the weight with their existing sleeve and a pouch reset diet, or if they have a complication of some sort. The NIH study concluded that revisional surgery was favorable for weight reduction and comorbidity resolution, so it’s worth considering if you have had trouble losing weight after a gastric sleeve procedure or if you have other health issues related to your weight. You may have several questions about the revision procedure and what it entails. Here’s what you need to know about gastric sleeve revisions:
What is Gastric Sleeve Revision Surgery?
Gastric sleeve revision surgery is a type of bariatric surgery that involves making changes to an existing gastric sleeve procedure to improve outcomes. It can involve either adding or removing tissue from the stomach, altering the size of an existing pouch, or even performing another type of bariatric procedure such as gastric bypass or duodenal switch. The goal of this type of surgery is to help patients achieve better results with their weight loss efforts and improve their overall health and wellbeing.
Who Is Eligible for Gastric Sleeve Revision Surgery?
To be eligible for a gastric sleeve revision, you must meet certain criteria including being at least 18 years old, having failed to achieve significant weight loss with your initial gastric sleeve procedure, having no medical conditions that would make it unsafe for you to undergo another bariatric surgery, and being willing and able to follow dietary restrictions after your surgery. Your doctor will also evaluate your overall health before recommending a revisional procedure so they can ensure it’s safe for you.
What Are the Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Revision Surgery?
The primary benefit of undergoing a gastric sleeve revision is improved weight loss outcomes compared with your initial procedure. Other potential benefits include improved metabolic health such as lower cholesterol levels and better blood sugar control; reduced risk of developing certain diseases such as diabetes; reduced risk of developing sleep apnea; improved quality of life; improved physical mobility; improved mental health; and decreased risk of obesity-related death.
What Are Some Possible Complications Associated with Gastric Sleeve Revisions?
Revisional surgeries are typically more complex than original surgeries; however, when performed by experienced professionals, they can be done safely with minimal risks or complications. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, blood clots in the legs or lungs, adverse reactions to anesthesia or medications used during the operation and hernia formation at incision sites. Problems with digestion due to altered anatomy in the stomach area due to scarring from previous surgeries or trauma from instruments used during prior procedures may also occur. It’s important to discuss all potential risks with your doctor prior to deciding on undergoing any type of bariatric surgery so that you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.
Where Can I Get Gastric Sleeve Revision Surgery?
The Nicholson Clinic offers comprehensive care when it comes to bariatric surgeries including revisions for those who have previously undergone a gastric sleeve operation but have not achieved optimal results. The Nicholson Clinic specializes in minimally invasive techniques which reduce recovery time while still providing excellent results. Patients receive individualized care plans tailored specifically for their needs which includes preoperative counseling, nutrition guidance, postoperative support, psychological support, lifestyle modification advice, online support groups, exercise programs, and access to our medical staff and support team as needed. With experienced surgeons on staff who specialize in performing high quality bariatric surgeries along with comprehensive postoperative care plans tailored specifically for each patient’s needs, the Nicholson Clinic provides excellent care when considering any type of bariatric surgery including revisions.
We understand how overwhelming this process can be and we want our patients to feel comfortable knowing that they are in good hands every step of the way. If you are considering a gastric sleeve revision or have questions about any other type of bariatric surgery, please contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced surgeons. We look forward to helping you achieve your health goals safely and effectively!
About Author
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, Gastric Balloon, and revisions.
