Gastric Band Revision

Gastric Band Revision

Every patient responds to surgery differently, and every surgery is different. There are two main reasons a revision may be appropriate after a gastric band procedure. The first is a post-operative complication. Another is inadequate weight loss after the initial procedure.

Correcting Complications

For gastric band patients, complications include band slipping and band erosion, among others. The most common solution is to surgically remove the band system through a revisional surgery.

Reigniting Weight Loss

With the ability to adjust a gastric band, a simple band adjustment may work. However, not everyone achieves lasting weight loss success with a gastric band. Initially, when a patient experiences weight regain, we investigate to identify if any behaviors can be modified to restart weight loss. When behavior modifications fail to achieve the desired result, we explore revisional options.

What to Expect

For some patients, band removal is the only goal. For others who wish to further their weight loss journey, a band removal can be completed in conjunction with a second bariatric procedure. Due to the surgical simplicity of the band and unaltered anatomy, band patients seeking a revisional procedure typically have many options.

Depending on your goals, health circumstances, history and anatomy, you may be able to choose between having a sleeve gastrectomy, single anastomosis duodenal switch, or gastric bypass. Once the band has been removed, these procedures are done as they would be if done as the primary procedure. You and your surgeon can discuss your options in the office during a revision consultation.

To be considered for a secondary bariatric surgery, our doctors will require a copy of your operative note from your first bariatric surgery to properly evaluate your anatomy and options moving forward.

Cost Considerations for a Revisional Procedure

Some insurance policies include revisional options while some do not. It’s important that you familiarize yourself with the details of your policy. We do offer self-pay pricing for all revisional procedures.