Gastric sleeve to gastric bypass

Gastric sleeve revision to gastric bypass surgery is a procedure in which a patient who previously had a gastric sleeve surgery (where a portion of the stomach is removed to restrict food intake) undergoes a revision to a gastric bypass surgery (where a smaller stomach is created and the small intestine is rerouted to it).

Some patients may experience weight regain, persistent hunger, or difficulty achieving weight loss goals after gastric sleeve surgery. Dr Kuzinkovas may recommend a gastric bypass revision to address these issues.

The steps of the revision surgery are similar to those of the original gastric bypass surgery but with some added steps to address the changes made during the initial gastric sleeve surgery. Generally, the steps of the revision surgery involve the following:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia to put them to sleep during the surgery.
2. Incision: Dr Kuzinkovas makes an incision in the abdomen using a laparoscope or a larger open incision.
3. Gastric sleeve conversion: Dr Kuzinkovas begins by opening the stomach staple line of the previous gastric sleeve surgery and divides the stomach to create a new smaller pouch.
4. Rerouting the intestine: The small intestine is then divided and rerouted to the new stomach pouch, bypassing the rest of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine, as in the gastric bypass surgery.
5. Closing the incision: Dr Kuzinkovas closes the incision using sutures, staples or surgical glue.

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.

Gastric sleeve to gastric bypass surgery is typically performed laparoscopically, which 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 sleeve revision to gastric bypass surgery. These can include bleeding, infection, blood clots, and anesthesia-related complications. It’s important to discuss these risks with your surgeon before the procedure.

Patients tend to lose 60-70% of their excess body weight after a gastric sleeve revision to gastric bypass surgery. 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 recommendations.

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

Recovery from gastric sleeve to gastric bypass surgery can vary depending on the individual and the type of revision performed. In general, 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 soft and 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 sleeve revision to gastric bypass 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 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.

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.