Resleeve surgery is becoming an increasingly popular option among patients who have previously undergone gastric sleeve surgery but are experiencing weight regain. Also known as a “gastric sleeve revision,” this procedure is designed to help those whose initial weight loss efforts after the sleeve gastrectomy have plateaued or reversed. For many patients, the surgery offers a second chance at achieving long-term weight loss and improving overall health.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of resleeve surgery, why some patients are opting for it, and what makes this procedure a viable option for those struggling with weight regain after a primary sleeve gastrectomy.
What is Resleeve Surgery?
Resleeve surgery, technically termed as sleeve gastrectomy revision, is a bariatric surgery procedure aimed at patients who have already undergone an initial sleeve gastrectomy but have experienced either weight regain or complications. During a standard gastric sleeve surgery, a large portion of the stomach is removed, reducing its size to limit food intake and promoting weight loss.
However, for some individuals, over time, the remaining stomach may expand, or the patient may adopt eating habits that counteract the effectiveness of the surgery. Resleeve surgery involves re-tightening the stomach by removing additional portions, further reducing its capacity, or addressing other complications related to the initial surgery.
Why Some Patients Opt for Resleeve Surgery
There are several reasons why patients may consider resleeve surgery. These include:
1. Weight Regain
One of the most common reasons patients seek resleeve surgery is weight regain. While gastric sleeve surgery is highly effective, not all patients maintain their initial weight loss. Over time, dietary habits, hormonal changes, or stomach expansion can result in regaining a portion of the weight lost after the initial surgery. For patients who struggle with this issue, resleeve surgery can provide a fresh start by further reducing the stomach’s size and reigniting the weight loss process.
2. Insufficient Weight Loss
Some patients may find that their weight loss after the first gastric sleeve surgery did not meet their expectations or clinical goals. In such cases, resleeve surgery can help these individuals achieve a more substantial and sustainable weight reduction, bringing them closer to their health goals.
3. Expanded Stomach
Over time, the stomach can stretch, leading to increased food intake. This stretching diminishes the restrictive effect of the original gastric sleeve surgery, allowing patients to consume more food and potentially gain weight. Resleeve surgery can reduce the stomach back to its original post-operative size, restoring the restrictive effect and encouraging weight loss.
4. Improvement in Co-Morbidities
Many patients undergo bariatric surgery not only for weight loss but to improve or resolve obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and joint pain. If weight regain occurs, these co-morbidities may re-emerge or worsen. Resleeve surgery can help patients regain control over their health and improve or eliminate these conditions once more.
5. Enhancing Quality of Life
Resleeve surgery is about more than just weight loss; it’s about improving a patient’s quality of life. Individuals who have experienced weight regain often face psychological struggles, feelings of failure, and physical discomfort. Resleeve surgery can restore the confidence and well-being that many patients seek when they initially embarked on their weight loss journey.
Benefits of Resleeve Surgery
1. A Renewed Opportunity for Weight Loss
For patients who have struggled with weight regain, resleeve surgery provides a new opportunity to restart their weight loss journey. By reducing the size of the stomach once again, patients can experience renewed weight loss and improved metabolic function.
2. Minimally Invasive Approach
Like the original gastric sleeve surgery, resleeve surgery is typically performed using a laparoscopic (minimally invasive) approach. This means that patients can benefit from a shorter hospital stay, less post-operative pain, and a faster recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. The minimally invasive technique also reduces the risk of complications such as infection or blood loss.
3. Improved Health Outcomes
One of the main reasons individuals pursue bariatric surgery is to address health conditions related to obesity. Resleeve surgery can improve conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea by promoting further weight loss and reducing the strain on the body.
4. Addressing Complications from the First Surgery
In some cases, patients may experience complications from their initial gastric sleeve surgery, such as acid reflux or other gastrointestinal issues. Resleeve surgery can help to address these issues by modifying the stomach shape or size to alleviate symptoms.
5. Lower Risk Compared to Other Revision Procedures
Compared to more complex revision surgeries, such as gastric bypass revision, resleeve surgery typically presents a lower risk of complications. The procedure is less invasive and can be a more straightforward solution for patients who are not ready for a more extensive bariatric revision.
Risks and Considerations
While resleeve surgery offers significant benefits, patients should also be aware of the potential risks and considerations associated with the procedure.
1. Surgical Risks
Like any surgery, resleeve surgery comes with inherent risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. Patients should discuss these risks thoroughly with their surgeon to ensure they are fully informed.
2. Potential for Weight Regain
While resleeve surgery can help reset the weight loss process, it is not a guaranteed solution for long-term success. Patients must commit to a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and regular physical activity, to maintain their results. Failure to do so could result in weight regain once again.
3. Dietary Adjustments
After resleeve surgery, patients must follow strict dietary guidelines to ensure proper healing and weight loss. This includes consuming smaller portions, prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, and avoiding high-calorie, processed options. For some individuals, these dietary changes can be challenging to maintain long-term.
4. Psychological Factors
Weight loss surgery is not just a physical transformation; it is also a psychological journey. Patients who undergo resleeve surgery must be prepared to address the mental and emotional aspects of weight loss, including potential struggles with body image, self-esteem, and relationship dynamics.
Is Resleeve Surgery Right for You?
Resleeve surgery may be the right choice for individuals who have experienced weight regain after gastric sleeve surgery and are committed to making the necessary lifestyle changes to ensure long-term success. It is essential for patients to consult with a qualified bariatric surgeon to discuss their medical history, weight loss goals, and the potential risks and benefits of resleeve surgery.
We highly recommend Dr. Jalil Illan Fraijo, MD. Dr. Illan is a Tijuana bariatric surgeon and one of Mexico's top-ranked, board-certified weight loss surgeons. Dr. Jalil Illan is a recognized expert in laparoscopic surgery who has performed over 16,500 metabolic and bariatric surgeries; 6,000 revision surgeries, and helped more than 22,000 patients.
During this time, he distinguished himself by publishing research articles in Obesity and General Surgery. Afterward, Dr. Illan completed an intensive four-year fellowship program in Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery with world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Juan Lopez Corvalá. Dr. Jalil Illan completed advanced courses in both Laparoscopic Surgical Techniques and Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass at the prestigious Hospital Oswaldo Cruz Sao Paulo, Brazil – which holds a position as one of the most recognized healthcare institutions in Brazil. He has become one of the few Master Surgeons in Tijuana, Mexico. A distinguished accreditation by the Surgical Review Corporation in Mexico. Dr. Illan has always strived for a better education and overall practice in his medical career.
To learn more about Dr. Illan or to contact him, please visit www.drjalil.com.
