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Bougie Size

I know there are a few threads discussing this. I know there isn't a big difference in sizes between the most common 32,34,36 frenches. But I'm wondering if there is a difference in weight loss over time. It depends on so many factors. Starting weight, diet, activity. But I notice some people have much less restriction than others. 32s even seem too feel it with liquids, 36s are drinking fluids like its nothing. Im going to Dr. Kelly who uses a 36 which I'll be honest is my ONLY questioning factor in having him perform the surgery. I don't want to be 3 months out eating a cup of food while some are just reaching those amounts at 9 months. My fear of failure and regain probably putting doubts in place. : /

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  • My doctor only uses one size, makes sense to me. He can't control the length of the stomach, but he can consistently control how close he staples by using one consistent size of bougie. It wouldn't

  • I found this on another board, its quite informative on bougie sizes, Got my operative report today, they used a 36 French. http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/carmelita/blog/2011/03/31/-2/

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I asked my surgeons PA about what size bougie they use and she said a 32.

ETA:I asked my surgeon after surgery what size he used and he said a 36.

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Congrats on your success Tyron. I know I shouldn't be worried. I certainly won't eat what I can now.

  • 3 weeks later...

I found this on another board, its quite informative on bougie sizes, Got my operative report today, they used a 36 French.

http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/carmelita/blog/2011/03/31/-2/

I quizzed my surgeon last week over this very subject. I wanted to know not just "if size matters" regarding long term restriction BUT ALSO about completely controlling ghrelin levels. He teaches others to do this surgery and I feel blessed to be able to have him do mine.

As I understand it, this is a relatively new procedure so 8 years is the most historical data they have. He has done over a thousand of these (no leaks) and said he uses a 36 because with the available data, this level of restriction is as effective as the smaller sizes (they only go down to 32) and he sees fewer difficulties adjusting to the new stomach with 36 as compared to the smaller sizes.

I went in thinking I wanted a 32, but after the visit, will go with his recommendation.

32F = .40"

34F = .425"

36F = .45"

38F = .476"

40F = .5"

46F = .576"

60F = .75"

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