After previous weight loss surgery
Problems after a sleeve, bypass or band, often from an operation done elsewhere.
Your surgeon: Stefanos Lazaridis MD, FRCS, Director, 11th Surgical Clinic for Obesity & Reflux, Metropolitan General, Athens · formerly NHS Consultant in Upper GI & Bariatric Surgery, London
Short answer
Revisional surgery corrects problems after a previous weight loss operation: reflux or weight regain after a gastric sleeve, a narrowing (stenosis), complications after a gastric bypass, or a gastric band that no longer works. Diagnosing and correcting these problems is a large part of my practice, and most revisions can be done by keyhole surgery.
Common problems
New or worse heartburn and regurgitation. Usually treated by converting the sleeve to a gastric bypass.
Difficulty swallowing, vomiting or food sticking. Treated with endoscopic dilatation or surgery, depending on the cause.
After a sleeve, band or bypass. First we find out why; surgery is one option among several.
Ulcer at the join, internal hernia, narrowing or nutritional problems.
Slippage, erosion, reflux or poor weight loss. The band is removed, often with conversion to another operation in the same or a later stage.
Ongoing symptoms after surgery that have not been explained.
Diagnosis first
Diagnosis first. Decisions after. Targeted treatment.
Revisional surgery is more complex than a first operation, so the decision is never based on symptoms alone. Depending on the problem, investigation includes gastroscopy, a contrast swallow, a CT scan and, for reflux, oesophageal function tests.
If possible, bring or send the operation note from your first surgery and any previous test results. They help me understand exactly what was done.
Travelling for surgery
Length of stay, flying home, follow-up and emergencies: information for international patients.
You send your history, endoscopy reports and any tests. We review them together by video call before you plan a trip.
With your consent I send a full report to your GP or specialist at home. The specialist follow-up stays with us.
Follow-up by video call and email, with a clear plan your local doctor can support.
Questions
Yes. Many of my revisional patients had their first operation elsewhere, in Greece or abroad. The operation note and previous tests are very helpful.
The risk is somewhat higher, because of scar tissue and altered anatomy. That is why it should be done by a surgeon with experience in revisions, after full investigation.
No. Some problems are treated with medication, endoscopy or dietary support. Surgery is offered only when it is the best option.
Next step
Send us your details and, if possible, your operation note and recent tests. I will contact you by phone or video call.