Gastric band removal

Don’t be held back by a gastric band that no longer provides the desired weight loss results or causes complications. Gastric band removal surgery could be the best solution for you. The procedure involves removing the band from the stomach, restoring normal digestive function and allowing you to regain control of your weight loss journey.

Gastric band revision Sydney

Common questions about Gastric band removal surgery

It’s understandable to have questions about weight loss revision surgery. Check out these frequently asked questions. And if you need more information, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team. They would love to help!

Gastric band removal surgery is a procedure in which a restrictive weight loss device, known as a gastric band, is removed from the stomach.

Gastric band removal surgery may be the first step in preparing for revisional bariatric surgery. Any further bariatric surgery will take place 2-3 months later, allowing scar tissue surrounding the band to heal.

Gastric band removal may be recommended to patients who have had gastric band surgery and are experiencing complication that include:

  • Slippage: Occurs when the gastric band moves out of place, which can cause discomfort and affect weight loss results.
  • Erosion: Occurs when the gastric band erodes through the stomach wall, which can cause discomfort and bleeding.
  • Port problems: This can occur when the port that connects the gastric band to the tubing gets infected or dislodged, which can affect the adjustment of the band.
  • Band obstruction: This occurs when the stomach pouch created by the gastric band becomes too small, which can lead to difficulty swallowing or vomiting.
  • Inadequate weight loss: Some people may not lose the desired amount of weight with gastric band surgery or may regain weight after the surgery.
  • Nutritional deficiencies: Gastric banding can affect the ability of the stomach to absorb nutrients, leading to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.
  • Side effects: Such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and acid reflux

Complications from gastric band surgery are common. Therefore, if you are experiencing any of the above complications, we recommend speaking to a Bariatric specialist to discuss treatment options.

The steps involved in gastric band removal surgery typically include the following:

  1. Preparing for the surgery: involves a pre-surgery consultation with Dr Kuzinkovas, a physical examination, and any necessary tests or imaging.
  2. Anesthesia: The patient will be given general anesthesia to put them to sleep during the surgery.
  3. Laparoscopic incision: Dr Kuzinkovas will make several small incisions in the abdomen to access the stomach and the gastric band.
  4. Removing the gastric band: Dr Kuzinkovas will remove the gastric band from the stomach using specialised instruments.
  5. Closing the incisions: Dr Kuzinkovas will then close the incisions with sutures or staples.

It is common for patients to gain weight after a gastric band removal as the stomach returns to its normal size and function without any restriction. Following a gastric band removal, it is common for patients to require further weight loss surgery, such as a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass procedure.

We appreciate that every patient is different. Dr Kuzinkovas will discuss options with you to determine the most appropriate treatment to achieve your long-term weight loss or weight maintenance goals. This may include recommending a revisional bariatric procedure.

Yes. Revisional bariatric surgery is one of our specialties. It is common for our patients to have undergone their first bariatric surgery with another surgeon. Getting a second medical opinion can provide added insight and perspective, leading to better-informed decisions and potentially improved health outcomes.

Yes, gastric band removal surgery is typically performed laparoscopically (keyhole). The procedure involves making small incisions in the abdomen and using specialised instruments to perform the procedure.

Keyhole surgery typically results in reduced blood loss, reduced trauma and faster recovery times for patients.

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with gastric band removal. These can include bleeding, infection, blood clots, and anesthesia-related complications. It’s important to discuss these risks with your surgeon before the procedure.

Following removal of the gastric band, most people’s stomach returns to its normal, pre-operative state. If you have developed a good diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits and can maintain these habits following the removal of your band, you can keep the weight off. However, as obesity is a multi-factorial, genetic disease and as your body is trying to return to its original weight “set point”, a vast majority of patients will regain the excess body weight after Gastric Band Removal Surgery.

Our team will provide helpful advice on how you can effectively return to everyday life and recommend steps to help you to maintain weight loss or achieve your health goals.

During recovery from gastric band removal, you may experience the following:

  • Some pain and discomfort in the abdominal area where the band was removed.
  • Swelling and bruising in the area.
  • Need for rest and reduced physical activity for approximately 1 week.

The vast majority of patients experience a smooth and uneventful postoperative recovery after Gastric Band Removal Surgery.

We offer a specialist post-operative care program. With more than 15 years of experience supporting bariatric surgery patients, we have perfected our approach with a scientifically proven program that minimises procedure complications and improves long-term weight loss.

Our post-operative care team includes a bariatric physician, psychologist, and dietician. We offer evidence-based treatments that are proven to help you keep the weight off for good.

You will attend regular follow-ups with our bariatric physician, Dr Daiva, to guide you towards your weight loss goals.

Louise, Sally and Kerryn, our in house Dieticians will support you in keeping your healthy eating and activity regime on track. Carmel, our Bariatric psychologist will provide counselling to strengthen your emotional and mental health and improve your relationship with food.

Please visit our page on pricing for more information.

Dr V. Kuzinkovas - MBBS MD MRCSED FRCSED FRACS

Advanced Laparoscopic / Upper Gastrointestinal / Bariatric (Obesity) / Surgery Specialist

Dr Kuzinkovas is a specialist in revisional bariatric surgery. He focuses on the various procedures that can help his patients achieve their weight loss goals following unsuccessful weight loss procedures. With an experienced weight loss team, Dr Kuzinkovas can guide you throughout your weight loss journey. 

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