Revision due to GERD

[mae7365 372]

On 1/22/2021 at 9:41 AM, jlalexan02 said:

I'm in the same situation with sleeve in 2013 and now surgeon is suggesting a revision to bypass or LINX to help with the severe GERD. However, they strongly recommend bypass so I'm here to do all the research I can on the experience others have had with similar situations. Would love to have the GERD gone and weight loss would be nice but terrified that bypass will actually be way more painful than I am expecting and have worse side effects like weight gain and dumping and maybe I should just deal with the GERD. Feeling really confused and hoping this forum helps me come to terms with a decision.

I couldn't get the revision surgery fast enough! I had reflux since 2010, and had the sleeve done in 2014. Never knew that sleeve surgery can actually make GERD worse. After exhausting every medical option, sleeping in a recliner and constantly coughing from the acid erosion of my throat, I went back to my original surgeon who gave me the LINX or bypass options. I didn't go with LINX because it's only been around for 10 years and bypass (gastrojejunostomy for insurance purposes) is considered the "gold standard" for chronic GERD.

After GERD was confirmed by testing (including BRAVO), I had the bypass on 10/29/20. Have not had any reflux since surgery. I struggled through the first 3-4 weeks post op, and I am a "dumper", but I feel great. I've lost 41 pounds since surgery, I'm now in the normal BMI range, dropped from a size 16 to size 10 and have more energy than I did before surgery. I think some of the energy is also because I can finally sleep at night like a normal person: no waking up with a hand/mouth full of stomach acid!

I did lots of internet research, including articles in medical journals, and the gastrojejunostomy made the most sense for me. And the weight loss is definitely a bonus!

[StratusPhr 127]

On 12/28/2020 at 7:05 PM, Christina760 said:

Depends on insurance. Usually for a revision you have to have some type of complication w the original wls

I was cash pay when I got the sleeve. New ins and BCBS Anthem doesn't cover it either, but since the severe reflux is the reason, is it usually approved?

[SharonRider 0]

On 1/20/2021 at 9:04 AM, Lola2122 said:

Hi there - I had the same issue and am just coming off the revision from sleeve (11/2017), which we did due to the fact that I had terrible GERD. I had my surgery on 1/12/2021, and I’m struggling with nausea. My physician says I have to figure out my new anatomy and not drink too fast, but I’m so crazy thirsty its so hard not to constantly obsess about my next sip of Water. I pray every day that my swelling goes down and my body will allow me to intake these fluids, however it’s been rough. I’m interested to watch your journey, as it seems similar to mine.