Not all bariatric surgeries will require revisions.
Not all bariatric surgeons perform revisions.
Dr. Chad Carlton at LoneStar Bariatrics is a revisional specialist. He has performed hundreds of revision surgeries of all levels of complexity.
Life after bariatric surgery requires commitment and compliance. This is not easy and demands a lifestyle change. Patients are confronted with mental, emotional, and physical challenges. People can succeed, struggle, or fail for many reasons. Dr Carlton will help identify your struggles as well as your strengths and weaknesses.
Revisional surgery is a reoperation by definition.
Conversions specifically refer to changing the initial operation, or index operation, to another, different surgery.
These procedures can be challenging and should be discussed in great depth.
This includes surgeries such as lap band removals and converting to a sleeve gastrectomy or, more commonly, to a gastric bypass.
Other common examples are converting a sleeve gastrectomy to a gastric bypass or duodenal switch.
We have extensive bypass revisional surgery history and can talk about the pros and cons and expectations of each.
These operations are performed for a number of reasons. Patients may experience ongoing problems or complications, while others may have experienced significant weight regain, yet others may have failed to achieve the weight loss they desired. Additionally, other people may not have maintained any long-term success. Whatever your reason or whatever your concern, Dr Carlton will listen to your story and present you with options.
Common symptoms indicating a revision may be required:
- reflux
- nausea
- vomiting
- abdominal pain
- dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- dilated pouch
- fistula
- gastrogastric fistula
- chronic ulcer
- gastrojejunal ulcer
- hernia
- internal hernia
- weight regained
- inadequate weight loss
- failed surgery, complications, or side effects
Insurance coverage is variable and is based on the employer plan. LoneStar Bariatrics has a dedicated team to help you. We will investigate your coverage, coordinate your care, and set up referrals and appointments as needed. The initial workup includes a thorough evaluation.
Most importantly, we listen and connect to each patient individually. Everyone’s story is different. Everyone’s story is unique.
Your next step often includes endoscopy and imaging, specifically UGI swallow studies and possible CT scans.
Please reach out if you have a possible interest in revision or conversion surgery. Dr Carlton would appreciate the opportunity to meet and discuss your goals.
Dr Carlton will discuss your options in detail.
Also, stay tuned for additional Revisional Bariatric Surgery Blogs, namely Part II, Part III, etc.
Dr. Chad Carlton, MD, FACS, FASMBS, DABS
