Can a VSG be revised or tightened after having a baby?

Question

I had VSG in 2011. I lost 160 lbs. I kept it off for 4 years. I got pregnant in 2015 and had a baby. I couldn’t eat anything but carbs. Everything else made me vomit. I gained 70lbs! I am still about 45lbs up and haven’t been able to lose the weight. I feel zero restriction. Is it possible to have the sleeve retightened or what would be the next best option? Thanks.

Ariel Ortiz, MD, FACS · Answer

Short answer is yes. You said the magic words....No restriction. This could potentially happen when the sleeve was performed somewhat larger than ideal and/or the staple line was not over stitched. We developed a technique called the double buttress technique that we use in all our sleeves, but also use a modified version when "re-sleeving" or adjusting a sleeve that has widened. The procedure and recovery is usually quicker than the original surgery.

Ali Solmaz, MD · Answer

Undergoing vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) in 2011 and achieving a weight loss of 160 pounds is a significant accomplishment. Maintaining that loss for several years reflects a strong commitment to post-operative care and lifestyle changes. However, it is not uncommon for patients to experience weight regain following major life events such as pregnancy, particularly when dietary intake becomes restricted to easily tolerated foods like carbohydrates, which are often calorie-dense and less satiating.
The fact that you currently feel little to no restriction may suggest anatomical changes in the sleeve over time, such as gradual dilation of the gastric pouch. While sleeves cannot technically be “retightened,” there are several potential next steps depending on your individual anatomy and goals.
One option may be a surgical revision or conversion. A common route is converting the sleeve to a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or a duodenal switch, both of which can offer additional metabolic and restrictive benefits. In some cases, a re-sleeve may be considered, although this depends on factors like current pouch size, surgical history, and overall health.
Before any decisions are made, a full evaluation is necessary. This typically involves imaging studies such as an upper GI series or endoscopy to assess the sleeve anatomy, along with nutritional and psychological assessments. Consulting with a bariatric surgeon experienced in revision procedures is the most appropriate next step. They will be able to determine whether surgical intervention, medical weight management, or endoscopic options like sleeve revision with suturing techniques may be suitable in your case.

Pablo Garcia, MD · Answer

happy new year.Some time the sleeve streched and allows more food and the grhelin start to be produce in other organs and stomach. First remember that bariatric surgery isnt the answer to obesity. The solution is to change whats make you gain weight: eat to much, quality of what you eat, low activity, etc...Yes we can do a revision surgery: plicature to tight more, re-sleeved, bypass, duodenal switch, but need more information like your bmi, height, diseases, age.....HOpe this year will be the best for you, God bless you

Can a VSG be revised or tightened after having a baby?

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Can a VSG be revised or tightened after having a baby?

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Everything you need to know about Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.