How likely is scar tissue going to affect me when I have revision?

Question

I had the Lapland surgery about 5 years ago at some point it slipped and I had it fixed surgically, about 6 months ago I had it removed and am on the journey to getting Gastric Bypass. I am scared however, of scar tissue from my previous surgeries giving me issues when I have bypass. Am I being realistic or overreacting? anything else I should consider?

Babak Moeinolmolki, MD, FACS · Answer

Although operating on non-operated abdomen is always much easier and lower risk, an experienced bariatric surgeon will frequently operate on abdomens that have had previous operations.  Gastric band revision operation to a gastric bypass or sleeve is not a very difficult operation but it will most likely take additional time and skill.  You need a surgeon who has patience and can experience with this type of revision.  I typically try to place my revision cases on a light day with plenty of time to invest into the surgery.

Wiljon W. Beltre, MD · Answer

I revise band to sleeve or bypass all the time.  Some patients have more scars than others.  I have done band revision to bypass where there were hardly any scars.  I have also done others with many scars.  In the hands of an experienced bariatric surgeon, the band can be revised to a bypass safely.  look for a bariatric surgeon in your area with such experience.  FYI: band revision to sleeve or bypass is going to be one of the most commonly done bariatric procedures.  There are a lot of patients with bands out there.  Every band eventually will need to come out.

Carson C. Cunningham, MD · Answer

It should not be an issue. In fact, the safest route for patients like yourself is to remove the band first and perform a bypass or sleeve 3+ months later. Time allows the natural scarring reaction (capsule) from the lap band to go away.

How likely is scar tissue going to affect me when I have revision?

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How likely is scar tissue going to affect me when I have revision?

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