Bariatric Revision Surgery and Panniculectomy Success: How Mary Lost 70 lbs
Being overweight was a lifelong struggle, something I've tried to overcome since my childhood. Despite trying various diets, medications, and exercise programs, I wasn’t able to find a successful, long-term solution until I had a second chance at bariatric surgery. I lost 70 lbs. with gastric bypass revision surgery at New Jersey Bariatric Center® (NJBC) and, to remove my excess skin after weight loss, I had a panniculectomy.
Prior to finding NJBC, I had a gastric sleeve procedure done in 2017. While I saw some success then, my other health issues - degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, stenosis, and herniated disks led to two back surgeries which limited my mobility and ability to exercise. As a result, I gained back all the weight, plus more.
Why I Choose Gastric Bypass Revision Surgery
I saw a photo of myself at my son's 8th grade graduation and Confirmation and I was shocked. I couldn’t believe that it was me in that photo. Being overweight wasn’t surprising but I had never seen myself this heavy before except when I was pregnant. At this moment I realized the amount of weight I gained and chose to make a change.
I remembered the success I had with weight loss surgery the first time so I decided to find out if a second chance at bariatric surgery was possible.
Choosing NJBC for my Revision Procedure
A Google search for ‘revision procedures in NJ’ led me to NJBC and my surgeon - Dr. Ajay Goyal. The patients’ success stories highlighted on their website stood out to me, especially after reviewing many other bariatric practices. The first time I called NJBC’s office, the person I spoke with patiently answered my questions and gave me so much information that other bariatric practices did not.
After a consultation with Dr. Goyal to discuss my options, I chose to have gastric bypass revision surgery. I knew then that I had made the right choice because everyone at NJBC was so thorough and I felt so informed.
Gastric Bypass Revision Results and Recovery
The gastric bypass revision surgery was life-changing! It made my stomach smaller and tightened the opening between my stomach and small intestine. This helps me feel full faster when eating. The surgery, in addition to the guidance of Dr. Goyal, Clarissa - the registered dietitian and the NJBC team, gave me what I needed to successfully lose weight.
The NJBC team has been so informative and positive along the way. I always feel seen and heard during my visits. Clarissa always gave me amazing tips for food ideas and supplements that also helped me achieve my weight loss goals. I am intentional with what I eat while still enjoying food in a healthy way.
After losing 70 lbs, I’m happy to say that I’ve maintained it for the past three years.
Life After Losing 70 lbs with Revision Surgery
My life has changed positively in so many ways. I used to avoid going out and having to dress- up. In photos, I would try to hide my body or avoid being photographed altogether. Now, my confidence has grown and I love trying on clothes. I have more energy now and enjoy being outside participating in activities with my family. The embarrassment I felt before is no longer there.
I was able to participate in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which is something I have done for 9 years. Before the bypass revision surgery, the costumes were always tight, uncomfortable and extremely long because I had to get such a big size to accommodate my weight. Now I am able to wear a costume that is comfortable and proportionate to my size and height.
Panniculectomy After Bariatric Revision
Some loose skin remained after losing the weight so five months later, I decided to have a panniculectomy, a procedure to remove excess or sagging skin from your lower belly due to significant weight loss and tighten the skin. I had it done with Dr. Goyal at NJBC.
Maintaining my post-revision weight loss was a crucial step in qualifying for the panniculectomy. The NJBC team had contacted my insurance provider, where they confirmed my eligibility. That was the cherry on top! The procedure eliminated the excess skin, the back strain from years of being overweight, and the painful rashes I used to suffer from.
My Recommendation to Others On Their Weight Loss Journey
I would recommend New Jersey Bariatric Center® a million times over. The care and time taken to prepare me for my gastric bypass revision and panniculectomy were a blessing. I have had so much success with NJBC. It was hard work, but NJBC provided me with the tools I needed to get it right for the first time in my life!
Since my weight loss I love that I can now wear jeans. It seems so simple, but I lived in elastic waistband pants for years. Since losing 70 lbs I’ve finally been able to wear jeans again for the first time in 18 years!
This has been a very emotional journey for me and I am so happy that I found Dr. Goyal and the NJBC team when I did.
Gastric Bypass Revision FAQs
Coverage varies by insurance provider and policy. Documentation of medical necessity, including evidence of stomach stretching and weight regain is typically required. Contact your insurance provider for more information about your coverage.
Recovery time for a gastric bypass revision is similar to other bariatric surgeries. Revision cases take more time in the operating room, which requires more anesthesia. This may result in an extra day in the hospital for recovery prior to discharge. We generally recommend 4-6 weeks of avoiding rigorous activity or heavy lifting, pulling or pushing greater than 10-15 lbs. The recovery period can vary for each patient depending on their overall healing process. Following a gastric bypass revision, the soft food phase of your diet is slightly more prolonged, lasting anywhere from 2-4 weeks.
To qualify for revision surgery it should be at least one year since your original bariatric surgery, at least 50% of the excess weight lost has been regained, or you are having problems with the gastric band, sleeve, or bypass such as moderate to severe heartburn or unable to tolerate your diet despite eating slowly.
The risks and complications of gastric bypass revision surgery include gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), bleeding, infections and leaks from staple lines, and narrowing of a passage (stenosis). As with any surgery, there are side effects and risks to weight loss procedures. Gastric bypass revision surgery requires re-stapling, so it may be associated with a higher complication rate. You can learn more about specific side effects and risks associated with revision weight loss surgery on our website or by calling us at 908-481-1270.
