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In the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the stomach pouch is created at one ounce or less in size, which is roughly the size of your thumb. (15-20cc). In the first few months it is rather stiff due to natural surgical inflammation. About 6-12 months after surgery, the stomach pouch can expand and will become more expandable as swelling subsides. Many patients end up with a meal capacity of 3-7 ounces.
With the Lap Band, the pouch size is similar, but is more apt to change over time. The band will settle into place within weeks after healing (5-6 weeks postop). However, the band has the possibility to slip upwards or downwards, causing the size of the pouch to vary. |
