Conversions and Revisional Bariatric Surgery

Sometimes patients need additional surgery — not because they’ve failed, but because their original procedure no longer meets their medical or weight loss needs. At TriHealth, we have extensive experience in revisional and conversion surgeries, and often care for patients who had their first surgery elsewhere.

Conversion from Sleeve Gastrectomy to Gastric Bypass

• Some patients develop severe reflux (GERD) or weight regain after a sleeve gastrectomy.
• In these cases, converting the sleeve to a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass can:
• Relieve reflux symptoms
• Support additional weight loss
• Improve long-term metabolic outcomes
• This is a common and safe conversion when performed by experienced bariatric surgeons.
• The pre-surgical workup, hospital stay, and post-op recovery are similar to a first-time bypass.

Removal of Lap Band and Creation of Gastric Bypass

• We frequently remove adjustable gastric bands for patients who have complications (like erosion, slippage, or pain) or inadequate weight loss.
• In many cases, we combine band removal with a gastric bypass in the same operation, depending on scar tissue and anatomy.
• Benefits include:
• Relief from band-related discomfort or reflux
• A more effective and long-term weight loss option
• Fewer long-term complications compared to keeping the band
• Our team carefully evaluates whether a single-stage or staged approach is best for you.

Revisional Bariatric Surgery
Many patients come to TriHealth after having bariatric surgery elsewhere — sometimes years later — because they’ve experienced complications, poor outcomes, or weight regain. These patients often feel frustrated, dismissed, or unsure of what to do next.

At TriHealth, we specialize in adopting and supporting patients from other programs, especially those who’ve had a difficult surgery or challenging recovery. Whether it’s a pouch made too large, long-term ulcer disease, severe reflux, or a procedure that didn’t go as planned, our experienced team offers expert evaluation, advanced surgical options, and compassionate follow-up care.

Revisional surgery is more complex, but it can be life-changing when done by a team with the right experience. We provide hope — and a new path forward — for patients who thought they were out of options.