Restore the benefits of your original weight loss surgery with gastric bypass revision in Melbourne. If you’re experiencing weight regain or complications, Dr Mo Atalla at BetterLife Surgery offers tailored solutions to help you get back on track and achieve long-term success.
Revise or fix the results
of your gastric bypass
Gastric bypass revision aims to modify or correct a previous gastric bypass. It may be necessary if you’re experiencing weight regain, inadequate weight loss, or complications such as dumping syndrome or severe reflux. Dr Mo Atalla carefully assesses your individual needs to determine the most effective approach, which may include resizing the stomach pouch, adjusting the bypassed intestine, or converting to another procedure to restore weight loss.
Possible reasons for gastric bypass revision:
- Insufficient weight loss or significant weight regain after initial surgery
- Enlargement of the stomach pouch or widened stoma, reducing restriction
- Persistent acid reflux or severe dumping syndrome impacting quality of life
- Malnutrition or vitamin deficiencies due to excessive malabsorption
- Chronic nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain related to anatomical changes
- Development of complications such as ulcers, strictures, or bowel obstructions
- Need for conversion to another bariatric procedure for improved long-term results
Your options for gastric bypass revision in Melbourne
Gastric bypass revision in Melbourne is customised based on your specific concerns, whether it’s weight regain, complications, or inadequate weight loss. Dr Mo Atalla will assess your situation and recommend the most appropriate approach. Here are some of your options:
Tightening the stomach pouch or stoma
Over time, the stomach pouch or the stoma (the opening between the stomach and small intestine) may stretch, reducing restriction and leading to weight regain. During revision, the pouch can be surgically reduced in size, or the stoma can be tightened using sutures or an endoscopic approach. By restoring the stomach’s smaller capacity, food intake is limited again, helping to control portion sizes and promote weight loss.
*Individual Results May Vary
Lengthening the bypassed intestine
The original gastric bypass reroutes part of the small intestine to alter digestion and absorption. In some cases, weight regain occurs because the body adapts by absorbing more calories over time. One solution is to bypass a longer portion of the intestine, increasing malabsorption and reducing the number of calories absorbed from food. This method is carefully assessed to ensure nutritional needs can still be met with appropriate supplementation.
Conversion to a duodenal switch
For patients who need a more powerful metabolic effect, gastric bypass revision in Melbourne can involve converting the gastric bypass into a duodenal switch. This procedure combines a smaller stomach size with a more significant rerouting of the intestines, leading to greater calorie and fat malabsorption. The duodenal switch is highly effective for weight loss but requires lifelong commitment to nutritional monitoring and supplements to prevent deficiencies.
*Individual Results May Vary
How much weight can I lose with gastric bypass revision?
Your weight loss after gastric bypass revision depends on the type of revision performed, your starting weight, and your commitment to lifestyle changes. On average, patients can expect to lose 10–50% of their excess weight, with more significant results in those undergoing duodenal switch. Dr Mo Atalla will assess your individual case and guide you on realistic expectations, ensuring long-term success with proper diet, exercise, and follow-up care.
Potential side effects or risks of gastric bypass revision:
- Temporary nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing after surgery
- Increased risk of acid reflux or worsening of existing reflux symptoms
- Dumping syndrome, causing dizziness, nausea, and diarrhoea after eating high-fat foods
- Malabsorption of essential vitamins and minerals, requiring lifelong supplementation
- Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhoea, constipation, or excessive gas
- Risk of ulcers or strictures forming in the revised stomach or intestines
- Potential for insufficient weight loss or future weight regain
Life after gastric bypass revision: what you can expect
After gastric bypass revision, you can expect a renewed opportunity for weight loss. In the first few weeks, you’ll follow a staged diet, starting with liquids before gradually reintroducing solid foods. Regular follow-ups with Dr Mo Atalla and the bariatric team will help monitor your progress. You may experience changes in appetite, digestion, and energy levels. Staying consistent with portion control and physical activity will be key to maintaining results.
Gastric bypass revision FAQs
Who is a candidate for gastric bypass revision?
You may be a candidate if you’ve experienced weight regain, inadequate weight loss, or complications such as reflux, dumping syndrome, or nutritional deficiencies after your initial gastric bypass. Dr Mo Atalla will assess your medical history, lifestyle factors, and overall health to determine if a revision is suitable for you.
Is gastric bypass revision more risky than the first surgery?
Revision surgery can carry a slightly higher risk due to factors such as scar tissue, altered anatomy, and previous healing. However, with careful planning and expert surgical techniques, the risk of complications can be minimised. Dr Mo Atalla will thoroughly discuss the potential risks and benefits with you before proceeding.
Why choose Dr Mo Atalla?
Dr Mo Atalla is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) specialising in bariatric surgery, including gastric bypass revision in Melbourne. He takes a personalised approach to help you achieve safe, sustainable weight loss while addressing any complications from your initial surgery. If you’re considering gastric bypass revision, schedule a consultation with Dr Mo Atalla today to explore your options.
