Refine your weight loss with revision bariatric surgery. If you’ve experienced complications or inadequate results from a previous procedure, Dr Mo Atalla at BetterLife Surgery can assess your options and tailor a surgical plan to help you achieve better, long-term outcomes.
*Individual Results May Vary
Refine or Fix the Results of
Your Weight Loss Surgery
Revision bariatric surgery in Melbourne aims to correct or modify the results of previous weight loss surgery. It may be necessary if you’ve experienced complications, insufficient weight loss, or weight regain over time. Dr Mo Atalla carefully evaluates your medical history, current health, and previous procedure to determine the best approach. Depending on your goals, your revision options may include adjusting, converting, or repairing your original surgery to help you achieve safer, more sustainable long-term weight loss.
Possible Reasons for Revision Bariatric Surgery:
- Inadequate weight loss after the initial procedure
- Significant weight regain over time
- Complications from the original surgery, such as reflux, ulcers, or strictures
- Persistent or severe acid reflux affecting quality of life
- Nutritional deficiencies due to malabsorption issues
- Mechanical failure of a gastric band, sleeve, or bypass
- Stretching of the stomach or pouch, reducing restriction
- Desire to convert to a different bariatric procedure for better results
Your Options for
Revision Bariatric Surgery
The right procedure depends on your original surgery, medical history, and specific concerns. Dr Mo Atalla will assess your condition and recommend the best approach to help you regain control of your health. Below are the most common revision options and how they work.
Converting a Gastric Band to a Gastric Sleeve or Bypass
For patients with an adjustable gastric band who have experienced inadequate weight loss, complications, or intolerance, the band can be removed and replaced with revision bariatric surgery in Melbourne. The gastric sleeve involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach, reducing hunger hormones and food intake. The gastric bypass reroutes the digestive tract to limit calorie absorption and improve metabolic effects.
Converting a Gastric Sleeve to a Gastric Bypass
Some patients who have undergone a gastric sleeve may develop acid reflux or experience insufficient weight loss or weight regain over time. Converting to a gastric bypass involves rerouting a portion of the small intestine, which reduces stomach acid exposure and enhances weight loss by limiting calorie absorption. This option can also improve conditions such as type 2 diabetes and severe reflux that may not have resolved with the original sleeve.
Converting a Gastric Sleeve or Bypass to a Duodenal Switch
For patients who have not achieved sufficient weight loss or have experienced weight regain after a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass, conversion to a duodenal switch (DS) may be an option. This procedure combines restriction and malabsorption by reducing stomach size and rerouting a significant portion of the small intestine. The DS is particularly effective for patients with severe obesity or metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes.
Resleeving a Gastric Sleeve
In cases where the stomach has stretched after a gastric sleeve, a resleeve procedure can be performed. This involves removing additional stomach tissue to restore the original restriction and reduce capacity. This is suitable for patients who initially lost weight but have regained some due to an enlarged stomach. While effective, it is not suitable for everyone, and Dr Mo Atalla will assess whether this approach is appropriate for your individual case.
*Individual Results May Vary
Revising a Gastric Bypass
If you have experienced weight regain after a gastric bypass, revision options include:
- Tightening the existing stomach pouch to restore restriction
- Reducing the size of the connection between the stomach and small intestine to slow digestion
- Converting to a more malabsorptive procedure, such as a duodenal switch
How Much Weight Can I Lose With Revision Bariatric Surgery in Melbourne?
Your weight loss after revision bariatric surgery in Melbourne depends on several factors, including your original procedure, the type of revision, and your commitment to lifestyle changes. On average, patients lose 50–70% of excess weight following a revision, though results vary. If your first surgery led to complications or limited success, a revision may help restart your weight loss journey. Dr Mo Atalla will guide you and help achieve sustainable, long-term results.
Potential Side Effects or Risks of Revision Bariatric Surgery:
- Slower weight loss compared to primary bariatric surgery
- Increased risk of complications due to scar tissue from previous surgery
- Nausea and vomiting as your body adjusts to the revised procedure
- Dumping syndrome (rapid gastric emptying), especially after bypass revision
- Nutritional deficiencies requiring lifelong supplementation
- Acid reflux or heartburn, depending on the type of revision
- Temporary or prolonged digestive issues, such as bloating or diarrhoea
- Longer recovery time compared to an initial weight loss procedure
Life After Revision Bariatric Surgery: What You Can Expect
After revision bariatric surgery, you’ll follow a structured recovery plan, including a gradual transition from liquids to solid foods. You may experience faster satiety, improved digestion, and steady weight loss, but results vary based on your procedure and lifestyle choices. Long-term success depends on healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and ongoing medical monitoring. Dr Mo Atalla and the BetterLife Surgery team will support you with nutritional guidance, follow-ups, and lifelong care to help you achieve sustainable results.
Revision Bariatric Surgery FAQs
Who Is a Good Candidate for Revision Bariatric Surgery?
You may be a candidate if you have experienced insufficient weight loss, weight regain, or complications from your initial bariatric procedure. A consultation with Dr Mo Atalla will determine if revision surgery is suitable based on your goals and concerns.
Is Revision Bariatric Surgery Riskier Than Primary Bariatric Surgery?
Yes, revision surgery is often more complex due to scar tissue, changes in anatomy, and potential complications from the first procedure. However, with an experienced surgeon like Dr Mo Atalla, risks can be minimised. Additionally, the BetterLife Surgery ensures proactive, consistent follow-up care and offers thorough postoperative care for optimal outcomes.
Can I Regain Weight After Revision Bariatric Surgery?
While revision surgery can enhance weight loss, long-term success depends on dietary habits, exercise, and follow-up care. Patients who commit to a healthy lifestyle and regular medical monitoring are more likely to maintain their weight loss.
Why Choose Dr Mo Atalla in Melbourne?
Dr Mo Atalla is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and an experienced bariatric surgeon dedicated to helping patients achieve lasting weight loss. If your original procedure hasn’t delivered the results you expected or has led to complications, revision bariatric surgery in Melbourne may provide a new opportunity for success. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mo Atalla today to discuss your revision options.
