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?

Dr Harald Puhalla During Surgery
Dr Puhalla Using Tab
Dr Harald Puhalla in Operation Theatre

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:

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.

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How is revision surgery performed?

01

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.

It often includes nutritional counselling, sometimes psychological support or a medical clearance to ensure the patient is fit for another operation.
02

Laparoscopic Access

Several small incisions are made in your abdomen.

A laparoscope (a camera) and surgical tools are inserted to perform the procedure with minimal invasiveness.
03

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.
04

Surgery

The revision is performed using laparoscopic tools.

Scar tissue and previous alterations are carefully managed to avoid complications.

05

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.

06

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

Dr Harald Puhalla with a patient
Dr Harald Puhalla with a patient after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Dr. Harald Puhalla

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.

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