Question:
How can I tell if I have stretched my pouch?

   — [Anonymous] (posted on January 13, 2001)

January 13, 2001
How big was your pouch when you started? If it was 1 oz, for example, then you want to eat frequent 1 oz meals to maintain that pouch size til you hit goal wt. If you find yourself routinely eating more than 2 oz (chewed), then yes, you have stretched it. Depending on how far post-op you are, you can sometimes reset your fullness sensation down a bit.
   — vitalady

January 14, 2001
While the below decision from Michelle might be accurate, it might not be-- you need to discuss this with your surgeon or his/her support staff. You might just be panicking! Virtually all post-ops fear that they have stretched their pouch, and most have not. it's a healthy fear to have, in a way, but you mustn't let yourself get carried away. write down everything you've eaten for the past week, honestly, and present it to the doctor. chances are he/she will be able to guide you. In the meantime, don't go off the deep end with other people's opinions, hon.
   — [Anonymous]

January 14, 2001
For one thing, it is normal for your pouch to stretch somewhat over time. You can't keep eating like a new post-op forever, or you would keep losing weight at an unhealthy rate. If you feel that you are able to eat way more than you should, or if you are gaining weight when you should be losing, then the only way to tell what is going on with your pouch is to visit your surgeon. He can use a scope down your throat or some other tests to get a look at your pouch and stoma. I've heard it is more common to stretch your stoma than to actually over-stretch your pouch. There is also the possibility of a staple line disruption. No one can really say without the proper tests.
   — Lynn K.