Revisional Bariatric Surgery in Adelaide with Dr Michael France
Research indicates that within ten years, around half of all Lapbands either need to be removed or become ineffective. The reasons for Lapband removal vary and include complications such as band slippage, erosion into the stomach wall, or distressing symptoms like persistent reflux and vomiting. Because of these issues, Lapband placement is now rarely chosen as a primary weight loss surgery. However, many patients still require Lapband removal each year.
Unfortunately, after band removal, most people regain the weight they previously lost, which often leads them to seek a more effective and sustainable bariatric solution. Dr Michael France, a leading Adelaide-based bariatric surgeon, has performed many successful revisional procedures, helping patients not only regain control of their weight but in many cases achieve even better results than with their initial Lapband surgery.
While sleeve gastrectomy has become the most commonly performed weight loss surgery worldwide due to its reliable outcomes and relatively low risk of long-term complications, some patients do experience weight regain years later. For these individuals, revisional surgery can be an excellent option. Many benefit from conversion to a gastric bypass, or in certain cases, the SADI procedure, which offers strong long-term success in preventing weight regain. However, the choice of revision depends on each patient’s circumstances. For example, patients who suffer from significant reflux are generally better suited to a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass rather than SADI, since bypassing the duodenum can help alleviate reflux symptoms.
Choosing the right revisional surgery is often a complex decision that needs to consider each patient’s weight history, anatomy, medical conditions, and personal goals. With extensive experience across all major bariatric procedures, Dr France and his team work closely with each patient to determine the most appropriate and effective path forward, ensuring personalized care and optimal results.
Benefits of Revisional Bariatric Surgery:
- Reliable, long-lasting weight loss
- Average excess weight loss of 65–70% maintained up to 10 years
- Minimally invasive keyhole approach
- Quicker recovery and shorter hospital stay
To maximize safety and success, most patients will be asked to follow a pre-operative diet, which helps reduce liver size and improves surgical access.