Expert: Karla K. - 5/7/2008

Question
Hello,
I am a 41 year old female who had the roux-en-y gastric bypass in 1999.  I did loose 180 lbs, but I have also gained back 85 of those lbs.  I really have tried other diets and just can't loose the weight.  I went to see a Dr. Washington in NJ who basicly told me that he has only done a few revisions and feels the mortality risks are too high for me to consider.  I obviously don't want to do it if I would die, but I also am not convinced that he was as knowledgeable about the revisions if he's only done a handful.  He did not even look at any of my previous records from my original surgery before telling me this.  If the revision really is that risky is it possible to then to do a lap band instead and leaving the rest alone?  Can you also recomend a doctor that is highly qualified in the revisions and the lapband surgeries.  Thank You, Kim

Answer
Hi Kim:

I agree that part of the problem is that you saw a doctor with very little revision experience.  It is so critical to have an experienced revision doctor.

I don't know where in NJ you are, but I've heard really good things about Dr. Greenbaum as a revision surgeon.  http://www.drthin.com/

If you're closer to NYC, why not try either Dr. Pomp, Dr. Roslin, Dr. Bessler, or Dr. Fielding (esp. if you just want a Band over your pouch)? All have great reputations.

As for revision options, a lot of RNYers go for a Duodenal Switch. You can find a lot of RNY to DS revisions on duodenalswitch.com or the Obesity Help DS forum.

Others choose to do a Lap-Band over their RNY pouch.  Check the RNY and Revision boards on OH for patients who have done this.

You can also choose to make your current RNY more distal... bypassing more of your intestines.

One final option would be to try one of the endoscopic procedures like EROS, ROSE, or StompahyX.  I've heard mixed results on these, though... and most are not covered by insurance.

Good luck!
Karla