Introduction to Bariatric Surgery
Step into the LSVA and you will discover the journey to a healthier, happier life with Bariatric Surgery. At Las Vegas Surgery Associates, we specialize in guiding patients through transformative weight loss procedures. While the vast majority of these surgeries have remarkable outcomes, there are instances where adjustments or revisions are needed to achieve the results you are looking for. Keep reading below to learn more about bariatric surgery, and how it can change your weight loss outcomes in ways you never imagined.
What is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a specialized surgical procedure in designed to assist individuals looking to achieve significant weight loss and improve their overall health. This surgery works by altering the digestive system to either restrict the amount of food intake or reduce the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, leading to sustainable weight loss over time.
Bariatric surgery is often considered for individuals who have not had success with traditional weight loss methods such as diet and exercise or who have obesity-related health conditions that pose significant risks to their well-being.
Revisions can be broken down into 3 categories:
- Failure to achieve desired weight loss or weight regain
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Acid reflux or heartburn
Commonly performed revisions by Las Vegas Surgery associates:
- Lap band to sleeve revision
- Lap band to bypass revision
- Sleeve to bypass revision for acid reflux and weight regain
- Sleeve to duodenal switch
- Gastric bypass revision for weight regain
What’s The First Step?
Bariatric Surgery Consultation
Schedule a consultation with our experienced bariatric team at Las Vegas Surgical Associates to discuss your weight loss goals and determine if bariatric surgery is the right option for you. Our compassionate team will guide you through the process with care and expertise.
During your first visit, your surgeon’s goal is to develop an understanding of your individual needs. You’ll discuss efforts you’ve made to lose weight up until that point, as well as any issues or specific health concerns you may have. This might include issues fitting into clothes, self-esteem issues, pain in your joints, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure. If you have a weight loss journal or notes on your weight loss efforts, bring them along to help you easily recall and share relevant information with your surgeon. This visit will likely be very personal, but it’s also an opportunity to get to know your surgeon and determine whether you’re compatible and can work together.
The surgeon will also talk to you about your health goals and determine whether or not you’re a candidate for bariatric surgery. You may be recommended to receive a psychological evaluation or diagnostic testing, a possible consultation with a nutritionist, and make lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise before surgery.
What to expect on the day of Bariatric Surgery
On the day of your bariatric surgery at Las Vegas Surgical Associates, you’ll arrive at our surgical center and meet with your surgical team who will review the procedure and answer any last-minute questions or concerns you may have. Once you’re ready, you’ll be taken to the operating room, where the surgery will be performed under anesthesia. Our skilled medical team will ensure your safety and comfort throughout the procedure.
- Lap Band-to-Sleeve Revision: With this procedure, our surgeon will first remove the existing lap band and any scar tissue surrounding it. Then, they will perform a sleeve gastrectomy, which involves removing a large portion of the stomach and creating a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach to facilitate weight loss.
- Lap Band-to-Bypass Revision: For a lap band-to-bypass revision, our surgeon starts by removing the lap band and addressing any related complications. Following this, they will perform a gastric bypass, which involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine to this new pouch, allowing for reduced food intake and nutrient absorption.
- Sleeve-to-Bypass Revision: In a sleeve-to-bypass revision, we will convert the existing sleeve gastrectomy to a gastric bypass. This involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine, which helps address severe acid reflux and aids in further weight loss.
- Sleeve-to-Duodenal Switch: This procedure begins with the removal of a portion of the stomach to maintain the sleeve gastrectomy. Then, the surgeon will perform a duodenal switch, which involves rerouting a significant portion of the small intestine to limit calorie absorption and further facilitate weight loss.
- Gastric Bypass Revision: During a gastric bypass revision, the surgeon will assess and address any issues with the existing gastric bypass. This may involve resizing the stomach pouch or adjusting the connection between the stomach and small intestine to improve weight loss outcomes.
After the surgery is complete, all incisions will be closed via sutures and you’ll be monitored closely as you recover in the post-anesthesia care unit before being transferred to a hospital room. You can expect to stay in the hospital for two to three days
Bariatric Surgery Recovery
Following bariatric surgery, your recovery process may look different based on the procedure. Our experienced team of providers will supply you with detailed instructions on post-operative care, including pain management, diet progression, activity levels, and follow-up appointments. We will be here to support you every step of the way with full support and guidance.
You will need to stick to a clear liquid diet for at least two weeks and it’s very important that you drink at least 64 ounces of fluid every day to avoid becoming dehydrated. You can begin going for walks around your room and in the halls to help prevent blood clotting. During this time, you may need to take vitamin supplements to get adequate amounts of vitamin B12, iron, and calcium.
After 4 to 6 weeks start to return to your normal activities. If you’ve had a gastric band fitted, you’ll be given a follow-up appointment where the band will be adjusted based on your food intake and weight loss.
How Much Does It Cost?
Bariatric Surgery Cost and Insurance Information
The cost of bariatric surgery in Las Vegas varies, including the specific procedure performed and your insurance coverage. Our team will work closely with you to provide transparent pricing information and explore available financing options to ensure that you receive the care you need within your budget.
Most medical insurance policies will cover surgery for bariatric surgery, but we encourage you to check in with your insurer first. While you will have more information to provide your insurance company after your consultation, it’s always a good idea to come in with as much information as possible so that there are no surprises.
Why choose Las Vegas Surgical Associates?
At Las Vegas Surgical Associates (LVSA), we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional surgical care with a patient-centered approach. Our team of skilled surgeons and dedicated support staff is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive treatment for individuals striving to reduce their weight in Las Vegas. Our surgeons hold certifications from prestigious medical boards, including the American Board of Surgery (ABS), the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), the Society of Laparoscopic Surgery (SLS), the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract (SSAT), the American Hernia Society (AHS), and the American College of Surgeons (FACS). You can trust LVSA to help you achieve your weight loss goals with our advanced medical weight loss options.
Bariatric Revision Surgery FAQ’S
Schedule a Consultation
Are you in the need for bariatric surgery in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV? You have found the team and place to do it. Please give us a call at (702) 258-7788 or schedule an appointment today and let’s start your weight loss solution together. The future is bright, and we are here to guide the way.