Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

Altered traffic flow at MHR Lewes Campus: click for details.

Wellness

What to Expect with Bariatric Revision Surgery

TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2025
BY Tarek Waked

When your weight loss journey calls for a second chance

Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing solution for individuals struggling with obesity and health conditions related to being overweight. Some patients who undergo these procedures experience solid results initially, and then over time, have a need for a second surgical procedure.

In some cases, this is a result of old habits returning and resulting in weight gain. In other cases, a second surgical procedure is recommended based on health complications, or opportunities that may exist to further enhance the patient’s overall wellness and quality of life.

Here, we address some of the questions patients commonly pose to our team, as they are considering a return to the operating room for bariatric revision surgery, based on their personal and long-term weight loss goals.

What is bariatric revision surgery?

Although uncommon, a previous gastric bypass or sleeve surgery can result in less-than-optimal weight loss results or health complications. When this occurs, bariatric revision surgery is an option that can be considered.

This procedure is performed to correct adjustments that were initially made within the patient’s digestive tract during their first surgery, to control food intake and accelerate weight loss.

Reasons a Patient May Require or Elect to Have Revision Surgery

There are several reasons a patient may consider bariatric revision surgery:

  • Insufficient weight loss following surgery
  • Regaining a significant amount of weight over the long term
  • Surgical complications such as an enlarged gastric pouch
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), either new reflux or worsening of existing symptoms
  • Nutritional deficiencies

Patients who experience weight gain or a combination of these health issues are typically eligible for consideration for revision surgery.

What to Expect with Bariatric Revision Surgery

What kinds of lifestyle changes are recommended after bariatric revision surgery?

Significant diet and lifestyle changes are necessary for patients who have undergone any type of bariatric surgery. This includes portion control and following a structured diet, along with incorporation of exercise into daily routines. These requirements are understood and agreed to by the patient, prior to any type of surgical intervention.

The reality is that some patients do struggle with making those adjustments, leading to weight gain over time, and the potential need for revision surgery.

In these situations, Beebe’s Center for Weight Loss Surgery team spends time re-educating patients, with emphasis on reiterating the lifestyle changes and commitments that are necessary for long-term success. The recommended lifestyle changes are very consistent with what is necessary following any type of bariatric procedure.

How long is the recovery process?

The recovery process for revision surgery is fairly consistent with all bariatric procedures. Most patients remain in the hospital overnight following surgery for monitoring and support in getting up, moving, and taking first steps.

In the days and weeks that follow, patients are encouraged to continuously move and gradually resume day-to-day functions as they feel comfortable in doing so. Many patients are able to return to work and most activities of daily living within four to six weeks.

What are the expected outcomes of bariatric revision surgery?

Outcomes often depend on the type of surgery originally performed and the extent of the revision. While weight loss after revision surgery may not be as rapid or dramatic as what was experienced following the initial procedure, many patients can achieve considerable weight loss, resolution of complications, and a higher quality of life and overall health.

Beebe’s Center for Weight Loss Surgery is the ideal place to turn for care

If your initial procedure did not produce expected results, bariatric revision surgery may be an option for you. Our patients are treated by our highly experienced surgeons and a multidisciplinary team of care providers who are dedicated to supporting your ongoing weight loss journey.

Fill out an interest form to attend a free seminar on weight loss surgery or call Beebe Center for Weight Loss Surgery at 302-260-7360.