Revision Surgery
Revision surgery is for patients who have previously undergone a bariatric procedure. Revision surgeries include removing a lap band, or converting a sleeve gastrectomy to a bypass or SADI-S.
What is the purpose of revision surgery and why is it performed?
For some patients who undergo bariatric surgery, they may require revision surgery. A number of factors can contribute to the cause of requiring a revision surgery due to:
- Gradual weight gain
- Inadequate weight loss
- Complications from other health issues or an existing procedure (such as a gastric band)
- Reflux
Revision surgery is performed when a patient’s previous bariatric surgery is no longer providing the results for what the patient needs. Patients who would like to have the gastric band removed frequently undergo revision surgery and convert to a more current method such as gastric bypass surgery.
If you are unsure of your Body Mass Index (BMI)
How is revision surgery performed?
Preoperative Preparation
Dr Puhalla conducts tests (e.g. imaging, endoscopy, labs) to assess the reason for the revision—such as pouch enlargement, surgical complications, or inadequate weight loss.
Laparoscopic Access
Several small incisions are made in your abdomen.
Surgical Planning
The type of revision depends on the original procedure. For example:
- A failed lap band may be removed and converted to a gastric bypass or sleeve.
- A stretched gastric pouch may be resized.
- A sleeve may be converted into a gastric bypass or a loop duodenal switch for better results.
Surgery
The revision is performed using laparoscopic tools.
Scar tissue and previous alterations are carefully managed to avoid complications.
Postoperative Recovery
After revisional surgery hospital stay is usually one night. A staged diet and follow-up plan are implemented, similar to the first surgery.
Ongoing Support
Long-term dietary, behavioral, and medical support is critical to ensure sustained weight loss and prevent recurrence of issues.
Bariatric Revisional Package
Our all-inclusive comprehensive surgical package includes the tools and resources to kick start your health journey and provide you maximum support.
What is included
- Initial & Pre-investigation Consultations
- Progress Reviews with Dr Puhalla, 3, 6, 9 & 12 months.
- Surgical & Assistant Surgeon’s Fee
- Dietician Appointments, 7 x appointments pre and post surgery guidance
- 2 year Fresh Start Coaching Program
- Bariatric Starter Pack, includes:
– 1 x Multivitamin Chew Bottle
– 1 x Feel Good Collangen 500g
– 1 x Portion Plate & Bowl
– 1 x Not a Bariatric Cookbook
– Product Samples - Access to our Bariatric Nurse for support
Not Included
- Pre-operative investigations if required e.g gastroscopy, pathology and radiology tests
- Psychologist appointments/assessment if required, referral will be provided
- Anesthetic Fee
- Hospital Fee/Private Health Excess
- Additional surgical procedures e.g hiatus hernia repair or gallbladder removal
If an additional procedure is required this will be quoted at your pre investigation consultation.
Recovery, Aftercare & Follow Up
Initial Recovery
You will usually spend 1 night in hospital. Dr Puhalla will visit you the next day for a check up and to discharge you home. You are required to have someone pick you up from the hospital.
Pain Management
Pain medication will be prescribed. It is recommended to rest and limit daily activities for 1 – 2 weeks
Hydration
Stay well hydrated, aiming to drink 1.5 to 2L a day taking frequent small sips of water.
Dietary Updates
A 4 staged approach to eating will be guided by the dietitian. This approach starts at liquids, pureed, soft and finally solid foods. This 4 staged approach will be aligned with your dietician appointments post surgery.
Follow Up Appointments
You will have your post operative review appointment 2 weeks after surgery. During the first 6 weeks you will see the dietitian every 2 weeks to guide your dietary upgrades. Regular follow ups with Dr Puhalla at 3 months, 6 months and 12 months to monitor progress and surgical outcome.
Increasing Exercise Gradually
Incision Care
Dressing can be removed 1 week post operatively. Leave the purple glue in place for 2-3 weeks post op. Watch for any signs of infection such as redness, swelling, heat or discharge. If unsure, call the clinic and speak with our nurse.
Consuming Alcohol
After surgery you will feel the effects of alcohol more quickly than you did previously. It is advised to make a conscious effort to limit your alcohol intake and frequency after surgery. The regular use of alcohol may lead to poor food choices, weight regain, liver damage, reflux and irritation to your gastrointestinal tract.
Cessation of Smoking or Vaping
Frequently Asked Questions
Haven’t answered all your inquiries? Below are some frequently asked questions that may provide you with the information you are looking for. If we haven’t answered your query or concerns please contact our friendly team at (07) 5667 9766 or via email at admin@weightlossoperation.com.au.
How long does revision surgery take?
Surgery time varies depending on what revision procedure is being performed.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
Weight loss can vary between individuals depending on multiple factors, therefore an exact figure cannot be guaranteed. Generally after revision surgery, weight loss is less compared to a primary bariatric procedure.
How do I know this procedure is right for me?
To determine your suitability for this procedure, you will need to have a discussion with Dr Puhalla by booking in an initial consultation.
How much does the procedure cost?
To find out an estimation of cost, please call our clinic on (07) 5667 9766.
Is this procedure safe?
Revision surgery is more complex than a primary bariatric operation due to scar tissue.
Short term risks can include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood Clots
- Stomach Leaks
Long terms risks can include:
- Reflux
- Malnutrition
- Hernia
- Vomiting
- Ulcers
We recommend having a discussion with Dr Puhalla during your consultation to answer any questions or concerns.
Are there any pre-operative tests prior to surgery?
If clinically indicated, Dr Puhalla may request for you to have a gastroscopy. This is a procedure performed under sedation, where a thin flexible camera is placed down your oesophagus and into your stomach. It can be useful to determine if there is a hiatus hernia, reflux, stomach infections, or ulcers prior to your surgery. A gastroscopy is usually recommended for patients who are over the age of 40, or those who experience reflux symptoms.
Do you accept patients who have undergone a bariatric procedure with another doctor?
We usually recommend returning to your previous surgeon, however Dr Puhalla does see new patients for revisional surgery.
Can I still drink alcohol after having a revision procedure?
Yes you can, however you will feel the effects of alcohol more quickly after bariatric surgery than you previously did. It is advised to make a conscious effort to limit your alcohol intake and frequency. The regular use of alcohol may lead to poor food choices, weight regain, liver damage, reflux and irritation to your gastrointestinal tract.
Can I smoke or vape after having a revision procedure?
Smoking or vaping should be stopped prior to undergoing your procedure. Smoking or vaping can have adverse effects and this can delay and impact your healing post operatively. There is also an increased risk of developing peptic ulcers (stomach ulcers) from smoking or vaping especially if the revision surgery was a gastric bypass.
Can I get pregnant after having my procedure?
It is known that weight loss surgery may improve fertility in both females and males. Pregnancy should be avoided in the first 18 months post operatively, due to potential risks to both mother and developing baby. To avoid pregnancy during this time, it is recommended to consider contraceptive options by speaking to your GP. The Oral Contraceptive Pill is less effective after a weight loss surgery, therefore other methods should be used. This is a key consideration if wanting to undergo surgery. If pregnancy occurs earlier than recommended, please contact our team.
Can I have plastic surgery after weight loss surgery?
Yes you can. Some patients may experience loose skin after losing a substantial amount of weight and the result of this is loose skin, which can affect you physically and emotionally. Speak with our team or you GP to arrange a referral for body-contouring surgery by a plastic surgeon.
I have heard gallstones are common after surgery, will this affect me?
After undergoing a weight loss procedure, there is an increased risk of developing gallstones due to rapid weight loss. If you suspect you may have gallstones, contact the clinic on (07) 5667 9766 and speak to our team.
Can I get a gastric bypass and the gastric band removed in the one procedure?
Yes, you can have these procedures combined during the one operation.
Can I just get my gastric band removed?
Yes, we offer only gastric band removal procedures.