Revision Bariatric Surgery Procedures including Lap Band Removal
We regularly receive referrals and enquiries from patients who have undergone a previous Bariatric procedure, these include Gastric Band, Gastric Sleeve or ESG procedures to explore Revision Bariatric Surgery options.
Some patients may have had a previous Intragastric Balloon (Orbera) and are looking for more sustainable weight loss solutions
The reasons for considering Revision Bariatric Surgery may be due to lack of weight loss, weight re-gain, significant reflux symptoms or other problems.
The reasons for these procedures can be complex, but our post-surgery goal is for you to feel happy, healthy and in control of your weight.
We consistently see positive long-term results from our Gastric Band Removals and Gastric Sleeve Revisions (including Band to Sleeve and Band to Bypass), which is why the BodyFree surgical staff are always happy to explore the suitability of the surgery.
The BodyFree team is always happy to talk. Let’s discuss your circumstances and explore the solution that’s right for you.
Gastric Sleeve Revision and Lap Band Removal (Commonly performed Revision Bariatric Surgery)
BodyFree offers Lap Band Removal and Gastric Band Removal in Sydney, with or without a revision procedure. We also offer revision procedures for patients who have had a previous Gastric Balloon, ESG or Gastric Sleeve (Gastric Sleeve Revision) procedure.
We have seen excellent results with Gastric Band to Sleeve procedures – a commonly performed Revision Bariatric procedure at our clinic. We often see Gastric Band to Sleeve patients do equally as well as those who have had a Gastric Sleeve as their primary procedure.
Excellent results have also been achieved for Gastric Sleeve Revision procedures. Gastric Sleeve Revision surgery may be required if desired weight loss has not been achieved, there has been weight regain – or in some cases the patient experiences rare post-operative reflux symptoms that may be resolved by performing a Gastric Sleeve Revision to Gastric Bypass procedure.
To discover which procedure will help you achieve the best weight loss results, detailed surgical and dietitian consults will be required. Our surgeons may also request or perform investigative procedures in order to carefully check your stomach prior to deciding on any surgical plan.
In addition to your current condition, your desired outcome will also affect how we reach a decision.
At BodyFree, we have a range of Revision Surgery options available:
- Gastric Band Removal (or Band already removed) to Gastric Sleeve
- Gastric Band Removal (or Band already removed) to Gastric Bypass
- Gastric Band Removal (or Band already removed) to SADI-S
- Gastric Sleeve to Re-sleeve
- Gastric Sleeve to Gastric Bypass
- Gastric Sleeve to SADI-S
- Endoscopic Sleeve (ESG) to Gastric Sleeve
What is a Lap Band Removal?
Gastric Band Removal, also known as Lap Band Removal, is the surgical removal of a Lap Band device inserted as part of a standard Gastric Band surgery procedure. In addition, scar tissue is removed during the procedure and normal stomach anatomy is restored.
The initial Lap Band surgery is designed to help patients lose weight by restricting food intake. The Gastric Band creates a narrowing of the stomach that limits how much food you can eat and the level of hunger you experience.
During the Gastric Band Removal, your BodyFree surgeon will also remove the port and tube, remove internal scar tissue and restore normal anatomy. The incisions your doctor makes are small and should heal quickly.
To schedule a consultation with BodyFree, contact us now
Who Needs Lap Band Removal?
Gastric Band Removal may be required for a variety of reasons. Perhaps the band didn’t work as well as expected, and you’re seeking a better solution. For some patients, the Gastric Band needs to be removed because it has shifted, aged or perhaps even caused erosion of the stomach. In some cases, patients have achieved a healthy weight and simply no longer need it.
Will I need any further Weight Loss Surgery following Lap Band Removal?
Following Lap Band Removal, it is very common for patients to need or decide to have a Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass procedure. Following Lap Band Removal it is common for weight re-gain to occur with the stomach returning to its normal size without any restriction.
Every patient is different, the BodyFree experts will discuss your options with you during a consult in order to determine your long term weight loss or weight maintenance goals and may recommend a revision bariatric procedure.
If a revision procedure, either Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass, is recommended or requested by the patient, this revision procedure can most often be performed at the same time as the Gastric Band Removal. This means you will not need to plan for two surgery dates.
Cost of Lap Band Removal
BodyFree offers Lap Band Removal surgery for patients with private health insurance for a fixed fee of just $2,700. Please be advised that you may need to pay your private health insurer for any excess that isn’t included in this amount.
We also offer Lap Band Removal to patients with Medicare but without private health insurance. We offer fixed-fee solutions that include the same care that is provided to insured patients.
Our Lap Band Removal fixed fees include:
- Surgical consultations
- Lap Band Removal Surgery (including the removal of Lap Band and scar tissue, and restoration of normal stomach anatomy)
- Anaesthesia
- Surgical Assistant
- 1 Night Hospital Stay
- Post Operative follow-up at the BodyFree Clinic, Sydney
Contact us today for more information.
Lap Band Removal – FAQs
BodyFree is here to answer any questions you may have about Gastric Band Removals. We offer decades of surgical expertise plus a helpful, friendly team.
What is Gastric Band or Lap Band removal?
Lap Band Removal is a fast and efficient procedure that removes a Lap Band device from a patient’s stomach. In addition, scar tissue is removed during the procedure and normal stomach anatomy is restored.
The Lap Band Removal is performed by inserting small, laparoscopic instruments into very small incisions.
The sutures that secure the Lap Band are then removed, releasing the bag. Then the surgeon can proceed to the removal of the Lap Band, along with the tube and port.
How long does a Lap Band Removal take?
The entire Lap Band Removal procedure takes one to one and a half hours to complete. It is completed under general anaesthetic, using laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, the recovery process is quick and simple. You will spend one night in hospital following the procedure.
Your surgeon (along with the clinic team) are available to assist with your recovery following Lap Band Removal aiming to get you back to your regular routine as soon as safely possible.
We find that, on average, the recovery process and return to regular life take just 1-3 weeks.
What are the reasons for Lap Band Removal?
Lap Band Removal is appropriate when a patient’s Lap Band has corroded, slipped or moved. Band erosion occurs when the band grows into the stomach and stops working in the way that it should.
In rare cases of complications, the band may not be successful and need to be removed. This can include an infection that proves resistant to antibiotics.
Some patients experience an adverse reaction to the Lap Band, including excessive nausea, vomiting and pain. If these symptoms persist, then a Lap Band Removal may be appropriate.
Our Bariatric Surgery team will provide expert medical advice and assistance. Dr David Joseph and Dr Robert Gandy are experts in the field and will provide informed direction on Lap Band Removal and possible Revision Procedure.
If you believe that you have a reason to consider the removal of your Lap Band, then we encourage you to contact our team today to book a consultation.
Will my insurance cover Lap Band Removal?
We recommend you contact your health insurance provider in order to check your level of cover. The Lap Band Removal item number is 31584. Please quote this number to your health fund.
If you are covered, this will ensure that your out of pocket cost for Lap Band Removal will be $2700.
Please contact us to enquire about our fixed fee options if you are not covered by your Health Insurance Provider.
Will I regain weight after Lap Band Removal?
After Lap Band Removal surgery, it is common for patients to experience some initial hunger and weight gain.
Removal of a Lap Band leads to loss of restriction of the stomach. This allows for the ability to eat larger amounts of food and for feelings of hunger to return. Depending on your circumstances and weight goals, your surgeon may discuss the possibility of a revision surgery with you, Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass. Should you decide this is right for you the BodyFree team will be happy to help. Alternatively, you may decide to work with a dietitian to manage your weight following Lap Band Removal.
Our experts will give you helpful advice on how you can effectively return to everyday life and recommend steps to help you to maintain weight loss or achieve your health goals.
Would you like to schedule a consultation & ask us questions? Contact BodyFree to rediscover life beyond obesity.