The first step is
finding out why.
If your first weight loss operation isn't working the way it should, you're not alone, and it isn't a personal failure. Whether it's weight coming back, reflux, or problems with a band, the first step is finding out why. That starts with a proper assessment, not a second operation.
Or call 08 6155 8822
This May Be
for You If…
- You have a gastric band and have reflux, vomiting, trouble eating, or the band no longer seems to work
- You had a sleeve gastrectomy and now have reflux or heartburn that is hard to control
- Your weight has come back, or you didn't lose as much as expected after your first operation
- You have ongoing symptoms after any weight loss operation, such as difficulty swallowing, pain, or trouble keeping food down
- You had your first operation with another surgeon, or overseas, and need someone to look after you now
Revision, Conversion and Removal: What's the Difference?
People often use "revision" for all three. Your surgeon will explain which one, if any, applies to you.
Revision
What it means: changing or correcting your existing operation.
Example: fixing a problem with a previous procedure
Conversion
What it means: changing to a different type of operation.
Example: band to sleeve; sleeve to bypass, SADI-S/SIPS or SASI-S
Removal
What it means: taking out a device without replacing it.
Example: gastric band removal
Illustrations are simplified and not to scale.
Reflux after a sleeve
Reflux is one of the most common reasons a sleeve is converted to a gastric bypass.
GERD treatment →Weight regain or not enough weight loss
Sometimes the cause is anatomical; sometimes it's not. Finding out which matters.
Band problems
Including vomiting, reflux, food intolerance, slipping or erosion of the band, or simply not losing weight.
Narrowing or other complications
Such as a stricture (narrowing) that makes eating difficult.
A planned second stage
Some people have surgery in two stages by design.
Why a Proper Revision Consultation Matters
A second operation is a bigger decision than the first. Here's why we take the time to assess you properly.
regain
- A change in your anatomy
such as a stretched sleeve or a hiatus hernia - Eating patterns
- Medicines
- Life changing around you
it's a mix
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The same symptom can have different causes
Weight regain might come from a change in your anatomy, such as a stretched sleeve or a hiatus hernia. It might come from eating patterns, medicines, or life changing around you. Often it's a mix. The right treatment depends on the real cause, and only an assessment can show it.
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Not everyone needs more surgery
For some people, the right answer is dietitian support, a movement plan, psychological support or medical weight management. We'll tell you honestly if surgery isn't the best next step.
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Revisional surgery is more complex
Operating where there has already been surgery is technically harder, and revisional operations carry higher risks than first operations. You deserve a clear picture of those risks for your situation before you decide.
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Your history shapes your options
What was done before, how your body has changed, and your health now all affect which options are safe and suitable. That's why we ask for your previous surgical records.
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Some symptoms shouldn't wait
If you have trouble swallowing, are vomiting often, or have ongoing pain or reflux, an assessment can find problems that need attention sooner rather than later.
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You leave with a plan, not pressure
You'll get a clear explanation of what's going on, the options, including non-surgical ones, and the risks and costs in writing.
Your Whole Pathway, in One Place
Assessment, tests, support and surgery are all part of the same team, so the full picture stays together.
Revision assessment
Your history, symptoms and health now.
See the steps → TestGastroscopy
A camera test of the oesophagus and stomach, performed by our team.
About gastroscopy → SupportNutrition & dietitian support
Learn more → SupportMovement & exercise physiology
A movement plan built around where you are now.
Learn more → TreatMedical weight management
A non-surgical option where it suits you better.
Learn more → TreatSurgery
Revision, conversion or removal, when it is the right next step.
Surgical options →-
Before you come in
Gather your previous surgical records. Your GP can help.
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Your consultation
Your surgeon asks about your first operation, your symptoms, your eating and your health now.
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Tests
Depending on your symptoms, this may include a gastroscopy (a camera test of the oesophagus and stomach, which we perform), a barium swallow X-ray or a CT scan.
About gastroscopy → -
Team assessment
You may see our dietitian and our exercise physiologist, so the whole picture is understood.
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Your options and plan
Your surgeon explains the findings and every suitable option, surgical and non-surgical, with risks and costs in writing.
FAQ
No. Weight is influenced by biology, anatomy, medicines, life events and habits, and surgery changes some of these, not all. Our job is to find out what's happening, not to judge.
No. Many people are better served by non-surgical support. We'll tell you honestly.
Sometimes. Your surgeon will talk through what may happen afterwards, including the chance of weight returning, so you can decide with full information.
Your first conversation can be. Tests and examination need to be in person.
Start With an Assessment
Find out what's really going on before deciding anything.
