Bougie size questions and much more (kinda nerdy stuff lol)

**inextremis** · 03-13-2013 04:46 PM

I am 48, female, from Canada. Weight is 225 and I am 5 foot 4 inches. Getting sleeved on the 25th and yikes !

Preparing for my sleeve on march 25th and for sure I am looking into long term result. Two recent studies seem to indicate that:
A- Bigger bougie size (above 40 up tp 60) does not reduce weight loss at 3 years but it reduces leaks and GERD source: pubmed/23023201

b- Long term side effects reported after 5 years include GERD and regain source: pubmed/20622654

In light of this I am wondering what the best middle ground might be. I am discussing this with my doctor but would like to hear more about real people with actual life experience. Has anyone here had a large bougie 40 and up ?

anyone care to share the links as the system won't let me...thanks for discussing this with me, I need to be ready for my doctor's appt.

**wpage** · 03-13-2013 05:16 PM

My doctor only does 40's- he says is greatly reduces the chances of leaks, strictures and reflux. I didn't know what size he used until the month after my surgery and I must say I was a little freaked out thinking it was too big, but I have lost 51 pounds in a little less than 4 months and really I can't imagine being able to eat less than I can now.

**inextremis** · 03-13-2013 05:24 PM

Congrats on your weight loss.

My discussion is in fact about getting a larger sleeve, not a smaller one. The studies mentioned indicate that at sizes up to 48 there is no difference in weight loss but there is less complications; less acid reflux and less leakage but the exact same weight loss after 3 years.

**barrybrn** · 03-13-2013 07:11 PM

Mine according to my Dr was a 34F but said he doesn't do it super tight so it might be closer to a 38F or 40F.

**inextremis** · 03-13-2013 07:13 PM

And Barrybrn are you having acid reflux or cramping etc.. ?

**barrybrn** · 03-14-2013 03:55 PM

No acid reflux at all. Had a hard time the first few weeks getting fluids down but all is well now 6 weeks post op. Dr put me on Prilosec for 2 months post op and says this is his standard. But food is going down fine. Good luck.