Gastric bypass revision

Gastric bypass revision surgery involves creating a smaller stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine to alter the digestive tract.
Gastric bypass revision restricts the amount of food an individual can consume and limits the amount of nutrients the body can absorb.  The procedure is performed on patients who have previously undergone gastric bypass surgery, a weight-loss surgery involving creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine to this new pouch.

Gastric bypass revision surgery can address weight regain and complications from the original surgery. Gastric bypass has also been shown to improve the symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes.

Gastric bypass revision surgery is typically recommended for individuals who have experienced complications or dissatisfaction with their original gastric bypass surgery. This can include:

• Weight regain
• Loss of restriction sensation
• Abdominal pain
• Acid reflux,
• Vomiting symptoms
• Difficulty maintaining proper nutrition.

The decision to undergo revision surgery is typically made on a case-by-case basis based on the individual’s specific needs and medical history.

The steps involved in gastric bypass revision surgery can vary depending on the specific case, but typically the surgery involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The patient will be given general anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
2. Keyhole surgery: The surgery is typically performed using laparoscopic techniques, which involve making small incisions in the abdomen and using a camera and surgical instruments to access the stomach.
3. Laparoscopic incision: An incision is made in the abdomen to access the stomach and small intestine.
4. Bypass: Dr Kuzinkovas will re-route the small intestine to a new location to bypass the previously bypassed stomach and duodenum.
5. Modification: Dr Kuzinkovas may also remove or modify the previous gastric pouch to make it smaller.
6. Closure of incisions: The incisions are then closed with sutures or staples.

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.

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

Yes, gastric bypass revision surgery is typically performed laparoscopically, which involves making small incisions in the abdomen and using specialised instruments to perform the procedure.

Complications of gastric bypass revision surgery may include bleeding, infection, blood clots, adhesions, bowel obstruction, hernias, and staple-line leaks. Additionally, patients may experience malnutrition, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and diarrhea. As with any surgery, there is also a risk of anesthesia-related complications.

Patients tend to lose 60%-70% of their excess body weight after a gastric bypass revision. Weight loss will not be immediate and will happen gradually over time. It’s also important to follow the guidance of your surgeon and dietitian and stick to a healthy diet and exercise regimen.

Gastric bypass revision surgery can be effective in helping patients achieve long-term weight loss following a previous gastric bypass surgery. The revision can improve related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. However, it is important to remember that the success of the surgery also depends on the patient’s commitment to making lifestyle changes, such as committing to a healthy diet and exercise regimen.

Recovery from gastric bypass revision surgery can vary depending on the individual and the specific revision type performed. In general, however, you can expect the following during recovery:

1. Hospital stay: You will likely spend several days in the hospital recovering from the surgery. During this time, you will be closely monitored for any complications.
2. Pain management: You may experience pain and discomfort after the surgery, which will be managed with pain medication.
3. Limited mobility: You will need to limit your movements after the surgery to allow your body to heal. This may mean that you need help with daily activities.
4. Diet restrictions: You will be placed on a specific diet to help your body heal. This will likely involve a liquid diet for the first few days, followed by a progression to pureed, soft and then solid foods.
5. Follow-up appointments: You will need to follow up with your surgeon regularly to monitor your recovery and address any issues that may arise.
6. Lifestyle changes: Gastric bypass revision surgery is a major procedure. It is important to make lifestyle changes to support your weight loss goals and maintain a healthy weight in the long term.

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

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.

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.