Another non-surgical weight loss option we offer is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG). This is an incisionless endoscopic (performed through the mouth) procedure that is less invasive than traditional bariatric surgery such as the surgical sleeve gastrectomy procedure. For those who have tried diet and exercise regimens and/or medications for weight loss and have found difficulty in losing weight, the ESG could be a less invasive option.
What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)?
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is similar in concept to “stomach stapling” or sleeve gastrectomy surgery. A flexible tube called an endoscope is used through the mouth to place sutures to make the inside area of your stomach smaller in diameter and volume. This procedure has been shown to be less invasive and with fewer overall complications than the traditional surgical gastric sleeve operation because it does not cut or remove tissue; instead, the stomach is sutured in such a way that it reduces the overall volume of the inside of your stomach by 70-80%.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) may be a good option for people who suffer from obesity and are seeking less invasive and/or incisionless weight loss therapies. Unlike the surgical sleeve, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is reversible.
Average weight loss at 1 year after the ESG procedure is about 14% of total body weight. Weight loss results can vary from person to person. It is important to note that the ESG procedure does not act as a substitute to eating healthy and routine exercise; the ESG is a tool to help you control portion sizes and choose the right foods that can help you on your weight loss journey.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) may be an option for you if suffer from moderate to severe obesity:
- Obesity is defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 30 kg/m²
- ESG is currently approved for patients whose BMI is between 30-50 kg/m²
Speak with your doctor if you have any of the following:
- Diabetes
- Gastroparesis
- Barrett’s esophagus
- Heart disease
- Blood clots or history of blood clots
- History of easy bleeding
- Cirrhosis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative Colitis
Are you motivated?
- Are you ready to make a commitment?
- Is this a good time in your life for a major change?
If you’re unsure if you qualify for endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) or you are interested in discussing any other weight loss therapies, please contact our team for a consultation. The most common side effects from endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) are abdominal discomfort (typically lasts between 1-3 days), nausea, and/or vomiting. These side effects may occur in the short term and generally fade over time. You could stretch out sutures if you eat too much, which is why it’s important to stick to a diet plan after you undergo the ESG procedure.
Overall, the risks of the ESG procedure are very low; possible complications include (but are not limited to) bleeding, infection, dehydration, and collapsed lung (pneumothorax). Talk to your doctor if you have questions about the procedure and its potential risks.
Most people return to work about 2-3 days after the ESG procedure. You may resume normal exercise as tolerated after the procedure; compared to the surgical sleeve, the ESG generally has less downtime and no substantial weight-lifting restrictions, so you can return to your normal activities quickly after the procedure!
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) costs $12,500 and is generally not covered by insurance. However, you can use FSA or HSA dollars. We also offer financing options through CareCredit. If you would like to know more about financing options, speak with one of our office representatives today!
