Question:
Who decides what your pouch size will be?

I watched a show on Discovery Health last night on varies types of weight loss programs or aids available for obese ppl. There was a guy on the show who weighed 600 lbs. His Surgeon said his pouch was about the size of a thumb. One of the Surgeons I spoke with said it would be the size of an egg. Can we tell our Surgeon to make it as small as possible or do they generally do what they want, afterall it is not like we can peek inside and see it for ourselves? Naturally I would like a 1 ounce pouch, but I know it may seem drastic but if I have any say so that would be my preference. Any feedback would be appreciated.    — [Anonymous] (posted on January 24, 2002)

January 24, 2002
I would talk to your Dr. My surgeon said he made 2 ounce pouches and I was content with that, but he asked me if I wanted a smaller one to stat with, which I am now SO happy I didn't take because I've had enough problems getting down enough food. So it couldn't hurt to ask..
   — Elizabeth D.

January 24, 2002
My doc has been doing surgery for over 30 yrs, so done a few different models. Very active with ASBS, he also follows all the studies and presents some of his own. He prefers 1/2 oz pouch. I asked for smaller YET. At support groups, when asked what one thing people would change about their surgeries, almost all wish they had a smaller pouch at 2 yrs post-op. When I had to be revised, I asked for 5cc. He laughed. He gave me 15cc (1/2 oz), and I should not complain. I eat comfortably and have maintained my goal wt. for years. Some docs do a one-size-fits-all surgery, some customize to your request & life style.
   — vitalady

January 24, 2002
I am wanting the original micropouch which is 3cc in size. You can eat just as much as any other RNY because the pouch empties faster into the intestines causing a full feeling sooner. We all know how before surgery.... we all stopped eating at Thanksgiving the moment our stomachs felt full. (LOL) This pouch does not, and will not stretch. I, at this time think it's only preformed in Michigan. You may be able to get a small pouch from other doctors, but "thumb" sized is not the original "micro pouch". If anyone knows of it being preformed closer to Kansas please let me know! Thanks!
   — Jessica C.

January 25, 2002
THE MICRO POUCH WAS CREATED BY DRS. WOOD AND SAPALA. THEY ARE AWESOME AND IT IS A ONE OF A KIND SURGERY AND IS ONLY AVAILABLE IN MICHIGAN RIGHT NOW, MY HUSBAND HAD IT ON JAN 21 2002 AND I AM GOING IN ON FEB. 18 2002. CHECK IT OUT!!
   — rebecca N.