Despite the significant advances in bariatric surgery and its high success rates, some patients may require a revisional procedure under certain circumstances.
What Is Revisional Bariatric Surgery?
Revisional bariatric surgery refers to surgical procedures performed after a prior bariatric operation, for several reasons: treating health complications that arose after the first procedure's failure, improving weight loss outcomes or resolving weight regain or plateau, and modifying or changing the type of the original procedure.
What Does Bariatric Surgery Failure Mean?
Bariatric surgery may fail if the procedure was not performed correctly, if an older technique with proven poor outcomes was used, or if the patient failed to follow post-operative instructions.
Causes of Previous Bariatric Surgery Failure:
Surgical factors:
- Stomach pouch dilation after sleeve gastrectomy
- Insufficient malabsorptive effect in some procedures
Lifestyle factors:
- Non-compliance with post-operative dietary guidelines
- Lack of physical activity
Health or hormonal factors:
- Hormonal disorders affecting weight
- Changes in the body's response to the procedure
Signs of Bariatric Surgery Failure:
- Weight loss plateau over an extended period
- Significant weight regain
- Intense hunger after surgery
- Severe or persistent acid reflux
- Frequent vomiting or difficulty eating
Types of Revisional Procedures:
The type of revisional surgery varies depending on the original procedure and the patient's current issue. A laparoscopic examination is performed to assess the stomach's condition, complications, and health issues, after which the surgeon determines the most appropriate corrective procedure.
How to Reduce the Need for Revisional Surgery:
Choose the right procedure by working with a specialized bariatric surgeon who involves you in the decision-making process and provides a full follow-up team to guide your dietary compliance and medical monitoring.
How to Maintain Results After Revisional Surgery:
- Follow the dietary plan prescribed by your doctor
- Take vitamins and nutritional supplements as needed
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain continuous medical follow-up
- Avoid unhealthy eating habits