Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, can be a life-changing procedure for those struggling with obesity. While it’s a powerful tool to aid in weight loss, it’s not a guaranteed or permanent solution. Success relies heavily on adopting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle after surgery. Unfortunately, some patients may not achieve their desired outcomes or could develop complications, making a weight loss revision surgery necessary.
If you’ve undergone bariatric surgery and are facing challenges with your weight loss journey, here are five signs that you may need to consider a weight loss revision surgery.
1. You haven’t reached your weight loss goal
The goal of bariatric surgery is to help patients lose a significant amount of excess weight within the first two years post-procedure. On average, patients are expected to lose 40–80% of their excess weight, depending on the type of surgery they had.
If you find that your progress has stalled or you haven’t come close to your weight loss target, it may be time to revisit your approach with a bariatric specialist. Several factors could be at play, such as dietary habits, lack of physical activity, or changes in your body that affect the surgery’s effectiveness.
A bariatric doctor will examine your diet, evaluate the functionality of your new stomach, and assess whether a weight loss revision surgery is the right option for you.
2. You’ve regained weight
Some weight regain after bariatric surgery can occur and is often manageable with lifestyle adjustments. However, significant or persistent weight regain could indicate a deeper issue.
One common reason for regaining weight is stretching of the stomach pouch or sleeve, which can happen if you consistently eat larger portions or consume calorie-dense foods. If you are following your recommended diet and exercise plan but still struggle with weight gain and frequent cravings, it might point to an issue with the initial surgery.
In such cases, a revision procedure like gastric sleeve revision surgery may help restore your stomach’s size and effectiveness, allowing you to regain control over your weight loss.
3. You’re experiencing heartburn or acid reflux
Heartburn and acid reflux are common symptoms both before and after bariatric surgery. However, if these symptoms worsen after surgery or become unmanageable with medications, it could signal a problem such as a slipped gastric band or other complications related to the procedure.
A slipped gastric band occurs when the band around your stomach moves out of place, disrupting normal digestion. This can lead to severe discomfort, acid reflux, and other gastrointestinal issues.
If you notice these symptoms persisting, it’s important to consult your bariatric surgeon. Revision surgery may be required to correct the issue and improve your quality of life.
4. You’re experiencing persistent nausea and vomiting
Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are relatively common after bariatric surgery and usually subside within a few days or weeks. However, if you continue to feel nauseous or experience frequent vomiting long after your surgery, it may indicate a more serious complication.
One potential cause is an intestinal obstruction, where food cannot pass from the stomach into the intestines due to a blockage. Another possibility is a problem with the Lap-Band, if applicable.
These symptoms can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and other health issues if left untreated. If you’re struggling with persistent nausea or vomiting, contact your surgeon immediately to determine whether revision surgery is necessary.
5. You struggle to tolerate solid foods
After weight loss surgery, patients are placed on a carefully managed diet that transitions from liquids to soft foods and, eventually, solid foods. This process allows the stomach to heal and adjust to its new size.
If you find that you can’t tolerate solid foods, even after completing the transition, or experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing, it could indicate an issue with your stomach’s structure or function.
Such symptoms might mean your stomach has narrowed, or there is another complication preventing normal digestion. A consultation with your bariatric surgeon can help determine the cause and whether revision surgery is needed to correct the problem.
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