Lap Band Revision Surgery
Lap Band Revision Surgery involves removing or modifying a previously placed LAP-BAND® (Adjustable Gastric Band) to correct issues like slippage, erosion, poor weight loss, or intolerable side effects. Many patients turn to this revision as a path toward long-term success with an alternative bariatric procedure.
As one of the earliest FDA-approved bariatric devices, the LAP-BAND offered a minimally invasive approach to weight loss. However, over time, many individuals have encountered complications that hinder long-term results, such as inadequate satiety, difficulty tolerating solid foods, or even band migration. Revision surgery addresses these concerns by either removing the band or converting to a more modern bariatric procedure that yields superior metabolic and weight-loss outcomes.
Lap Band Revision is not just about correcting a failed device, but also about giving patients a second chance at lasting health improvement. For many patients, undergoing revision surgery not only relieves physical discomfort but also revitalizes their motivation and ability to adopt a healthier lifestyle with appropriate clinical support.
Lap Band Revision Surgery Specialist
When it comes to Lap Band revision surgery, the experience is of paramount importance. At Healthy Life Bariatric in Los Angeles, top-rated bariatric surgeon Dr. Babak Moeinolmolki has performed countless Lap Band revision procedures, enabling patients from throughout the Los Angeles area, including Glendale and Encino, to regain health and successfully resume their weight loss journeys. We have experience with both the Realize band and Lap-Band.
Who Is a Candidate for Lap Band Revision?
Most patients who opt for bariatric procedures, such as the Lap-Band, go on to see excellent results. There are cases, however, where the weight loss wasn’t as significant as expected or the weight managed to return. Then there are the rare cases where complications occur, such as slippage of the Lap Band or popping stomach staples. Having performed literally thousands of bariatric surgeries, Dr. Moeinolmolki is an expert in addressing all of these problems with the appropriate revision procedure.
You may qualify for Lap Band Revision Surgery if you are experiencing:
- Chronic nausea, vomiting, or acid reflux
- Band slippage or erosion
- Band intolerance or esophageal dilation
- Insufficient weight loss or weight regain
- Mechanical failure of the band system
If you relate to any of the above, a thorough consultation and diagnostic evaluation at Healthy Life Bariatrics can help determine the most appropriate revision option.
Lap Band Revision Options in Los Angeles
Depending on the case, a Lap-Band may be simply removed. Other times Dr. Moein may recommend removal followed by replacement with a new Lap Band or another bariatric procedure. Possible revisions include:
- Replacing the original Lap Band with a new one.
- Duodenal switch after a Lap-Band procedure. Duodenal switch is a complex, multipart surgery that involves removing about 80% of the stomach, as well as a small part of the small intestine.
- Restoring a stomach pouch to its original post-gastric bypass surgery size..
- Insertion of a lap band after bypass surgery.
Dr. Moein offers several Lap Band Revision techniques tailored to your needs:
1. Gastric Band Removal Only
In cases where patients prefer non-surgical weight loss or wish to pause further procedures, simple Lap-Band removal can be performed.
2. Gastric Band to Gastric Sleeve Revision
One of the most common conversions, this involves removing the band and performing a Gastric Sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy) to promote sustainable weight loss with reduced complication rates.
3. Gastric Band to Gastric Bypass Revision
This revision is ideal for patients with GERD or severe band-related issues. It removes the Lap-Band and transitions the stomach anatomy to a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass.
4.Gastric Band to SADI-S or Duodenal Switch
In specific high-BMI or high-risk cases, Dr. Moein may suggest a conversion to SADI-S (Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy) for more effective long-term weight loss.
How Lap Band Revision Surgery Works?
Step-by-Step Process:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Includes imaging studies, nutritional counseling, and bloodwork
- Custom Surgical Plan: Tailored revision approach based on your anatomy and goals
- Surgery Day: Performed under general anesthesia, laparoscopically or robotically
- Recovery and Monitoring: Most patients return home within 24-48 hours
- Long-Term Support: Nutritional guidance and weight loss follow-up care
Most revision procedures are done laparoscopically to minimize pain, reduce scarring, and accelerate recovery.
Benefits of Lap Band Revision
It would be very helpful to have your initial operative report form your original surgery and your basic follow-up notes with your original doctor. We typically recommend both an upper gastrointestinal study and an upper endoscopy to make sure your band has not eroded inside your stomach. We will also order basic blood work and a Chest X-ray. A repeat psychiatric evaluation is also necessary to make sure anxiety and depression are under control and well-managed. Depression and anxiety can have a deleterious effect on your weight loss journey.
Jump to Benefits section
- Improved quality of life
- Greater long-term weight loss results
- Alleviation of band-related side effects
- Better metabolic outcomes
- Decreased risk of reoperation compared to leaving the band in place
What kind of results can I expect from revision surgery?
Individual cases differ, however, in the hands of an expert surgeon like Dr. Moeinolmolki weight loss can be dramatic. For example, patients who undergo gastric sleeve surgery following a previous lap band procedure can lose up to 70% of their excess weight. As with bariatric surgery, to ensure permanent weight loss patients must adhere to a healthy diet and exercise program. Results vary, but revision surgery is generally effort dependent. The harder you work the better results you will achieve.
Lap Band Revision Surgery Cost in Los Angeles
| Procedure Type | Estimated Price (USD) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Lap Band Removal Only | $7,500 - $9,000 | Surgery, anesthesia, facility fees |
| Lap Band to Gastric Sleeve | $13,500 - $18,000 | Complete conversion, hospital stay, pre-op labs |
| Lap Band to Gastric Bypass | $16,000 - $22,000 | Conversion, nutritional support, post-op care |
How Long After Lap Band Surgery (Gastric Banding) do I Need to See a Doctor for Failed Weight Loss?
If you have not lost enough weight after two years following your lap band surgery, you need to see a doctor for reevaluation. It is essential for your doctor to follow you closely. Studies show patients who are followed closely by their doctor have the best results. Sometimes we are able to revive your lap band weight loss by appropriate adjustment protocol. We can also use weight loss medication effectively to revive the band. However, it needs to be done under the care of a physician who can adjust your band and make sure there are no other problems related to the band that is hindering your weight loss efforts.
Some medical conditions require important consideration and an urgent need for reevaluation following the gastric banding, including recurrent acid reflux and frequent coughing, particularly during the night. Others include food impaction in your band and associated excessive saliva production, often called slimming. If you experience food impaction more than once per week, your band is too tight, or you aren’t following dietary guidelines. This will result in lap band slippage, which is a medical emergency. Early intervention is important to avoid necrosis of the stomach and repositioning of the lap band.
Schedule Your Lap Band Revision Consultation Today in Los Angeles
If you’re struggling with your current Lap-Band and considering a more permanent, practical solution, Healthy Life Bariatrics is here to help.
📞 Call (310) 861-4093
📍 Visit us: 2080 Century Park East, Suite 501, Los Angeles, CA 90067
📅 Schedule your consultation online today
Trust your transformation to Dr. Moein, a leader in Lap Band Revision Surgery in Los Angeles.
