Bariatric Revisions & Conversions

Dr. Morin has extensive experience in conversions/revision of previous bariatric surgery. Reasons for revising a previous bariatric surgery are numerous and include weight regain, uncontrolled acid reflux, and structural issues from the initial procedure. We offer revisions using both endoscopic suturing techniques and robotic surgical revision.

One common conversion we perform is the revision of a previous gastric sleeve. This can be due to weight regain or acid reflux. the two most common procedures we convert the gastric sleeve to is the gastric bypass or the SADI – S. We are also uniquely skilled in that we can revise gastric bypass due to failed weight loss, both with surgical and endoscopic techniques. We can find a solution for whatever type of previous bariatric surgery you had.

The risks and complications associated with a converted bariatric procedure can be more significant than the initial bariatric procedure. However, many patients will have lost a considerable amount of weight and improved many of the comorbidities associated with obesity, so from a health standpoint, patients are often in a better position to recover well from these surgeries.

Revision/conversion bariatric surgery requires a rigorous qualification process. We first evaluate the patient’s dietary and exercise habits to see if optimization can allow additional weight loss. GLP-1s, whether in injection or pill form, may also be tried. Only when all options are exhausted do we turn to a second surgery to correct any weight gain.

It is also important to understand that there will be some weight regain after any bariatric procedure as motivation to diet and exercise wanes in the years after surgery. Regaining five or even 10% of the prior excess weight loss is nothing to be concerned about and would not qualify a patient for a revision procedure. Instead, patients must be struggling with significant weight regain for this to be an option.

We encourage patients experiencing significant weight regain or the inability to lose weight after their bariatric surgery to contact Dr. Morin for a consultation. We look forward to helping you understand the root cause and offer an appropriate solution.