Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is one of the most effective and commonly performed bariatric surgeries today. Despite its success, obesity is a chronic, relapsing condition, and the surgery may not provide long-term results for all patients. Some experience significant weight loss initially, only to see their progress stall or even reverse. Fortunately, non-surgical options are now available to help these patients regain their success without undergoing another surgery.
DR. CHRISTOPHER MCGOWN
Dr. Christopher McGowan, MD, a leader in endobariatrics, specializes in non-surgical obesity treatments and is triple-board-certified in Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, and Obesity Medicine. Renowned for pioneering endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) with over 2,000 procedures, his global influence and research contributions define him as a top expert.
Reasons for Gastric Sleeve Revision
There are several reasons why a gastric sleeve might need revision, whether surgically or through a less invasive endoscopic procedure like those offered at True You Weight Loss:
- Inadequate weight loss
- Weight regain
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Stretching of the gastric sleeve
Before delving into gastric sleeve revision and its benefits, it’s essential to understand the original gastric sleeve procedure.
Understanding Gastric Sleeve Surgery
In a vertical sleeve gastrectomy, performed laparoscopically, a surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen. Using surgical tools, the surgeon removes about 80% of the stomach, leaving a banana-shaped “sleeve.” This reduced stomach size limits food intake significantly and removes the part of the stomach that produces the hunger hormone ghrelin.
Though it doesn’t require a full abdominal opening, gastric sleeve surgery is still a major procedure performed under general anesthesia. The surgery itself takes about an hour, with an additional hour in the recovery room. Patients typically go home after two to three days and take about 4 to 6 weeks to fully recover.
The dietary progression post-surgery involves clear liquids for the first few days, followed by pureed foods, and then solid foods after about a month.
Revision Procedures for Gastric Sleeve
While gastric sleeve surgery is initially effective, many patients experience weight regain due to gastric stretching and “portion creep”—gradual increases in food intake. On average, patients regain 30% or more of their lost weight, with over 20% regaining all of it. To counter this, many opt for a gastric sleeve revision.
Patients have several options for revision:
- Conversion to Duodenal Switch (DS): This complex surgery attaches the stomach sleeve further down the intestines, reducing nutrient absorption.
- Conversion to Modified Switch (SADI): A less complex version of the DS, involving a single intestinal cut to create a loop attached to the stomach.
- Conversion to Gastric Bypass: This surgery bypasses most of the stomach and the duodenum, creating a small stomach pouch connected to the small intestine.
- Endoscopic Sleeve Revision: A 30-minute, non-surgical outpatient procedure that tightens the sleeve gastrectomy.
Endoscopic Sleeve Revision at True You Weight Loss
True You Weight Loss specializes in non-surgical weight loss procedures, including endoscopic gastric sleeve revisions. Ideal for patients who had a sleeve gastrectomy more than two years ago and have since regained weight, this procedure can restore the stomach’s fullness sensation and promote satiety with smaller food portions.
In an endoscopic gastric sleeve revision, expert gastroenterologists use an endoscopic suturing system to tighten the gastric sleeve from the inside. This technique minimizes risks, such as bleeding, infection, or stomach injury, which occur in less than 1% of cases. Recovery time is minimal, with patients typically returning home the same day and resuming work within two to three days.
Comprehensive Support for Lasting Results
True You Weight Loss provides holistic support to ensure long-term success. Their team of dietitians helps patients adjust their diet and physical activity for maximal, sustained weight loss. The clinic’s physicians, Dr. Lauren Donnangelo, Dr. Daniel Maselli, and Dr. Christopher McGowan, are triple board-certified in gastroenterology, internal medicine, and obesity medicine. They are recognized leaders in endoscopic weight loss procedures.
Why Choose True You Weight Loss?
As the highest-volume bariatric endoscopy weight loss center in the United States, True You Weight Loss has assisted patients from 45 states and 10 countries. The clinic offers unparalleled expertise, lifelong personalized support, and 24/7 physician access, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care on their weight loss journey.
If you’re considering a gastric sleeve revision or want to explore your options, contact True You Weight Loss to request a consultation. Their team is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain your weight loss goals, giving your bariatric surgery a second chance at success.
