Patients may inquire about revision weight loss surgery for several reasons. A single weight loss surgery procedure is sufficient for many patients, providing adequate long term weight loss. For others, a single weight loss surgery procedure may not cause the desired results, either through insufficient weight loss, poor resolution of co-morbidities, and/or due to medical complications resulting from the weight loss surgery itself. When practicing revision weight loss surgery, one needs to be able to utilize every tool available, old or new, and when required, create new tools.
Risks and Results of Revision Weight Loss Surgery
Revision weight loss surgery is a big decision and the decision should be based upon the risks versus the benefits. Revision weight loss surgeries are generally riskier than the first time a weight loss surgery is performed. The following reasons make revision weight loss surgery higher risk:
- Revision weight loss surgery procedures generally take longer.
- Open incisions are frequently but not always needed.
- There is greater blood loss.
- Leaks and infections occur more frequently. It is thought that leak rates increase due to changes in blood flow to the stomach caused by the original weight loss surgery.
The results of revision weight loss surgery are relatively predictable when it comes to the treatment of medical conditions. With this said, predicting the impact of revision weight loss surgery on weight loss itself, is less accurate. It is common to see less weight loss after revision weight loss surgery than if the procedure was being done for the first time. The reason for this is metabolic, where metabolic adaptations occur after the initial weight loss surgery, making it more difficult to lose weight after revision weight loss surgery. Individuals who are metabolically obstinate, fail more frequently after the initial weight loss surgery.
Due to the unique needs of each and every patient seeking revision weight loss surgery, each revision must be tailored to meet the particular needs of the patient.
Information courtesy of Dr. John Husted.