Weight loss can be an extremely difficult and frustrating process, which is why medical experts are always looking for new ways to help patients on their weight loss journey. One such technique that has become more popular in recent years is what’s known as the ESG (Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty) Procedure. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at how the procedure is performed, and we explain how it can help you reach your weight loss goals.
ESG Weight Loss Procedure
As we mentioned in the intro, weight loss can be a difficult process, especially if a previous weight loss operation is no longer effective in helping you lose weight. That’s where the ESG procedure can be a gamechanger. The ESG weight loss operation is a safe and effective alternative to helping you reach your weight loss goals after a previous weight loss operation.
The most common weight loss procedure is the gastric bypass, which involves making a smaller pouch out of the stomach and connecting that to the small intestine, allowing food to bypass the larger stomach cavity. This pouch helps you feel full faster, which in turn limits calorie intake and spurs weight loss. However, over time this newly created pouch can expand and loosen, which can make it harder to keep those pounds off.
For these patients, the ESG procedure can be just what they need to keep their weight loss on track. The procedure works by reducing the size of the previously created pouch to help ensure it stays small and limits how much food you can comfortably consume. Best of all, it can be performed using minimally invasive techniques, so it won’t be a large undertaking for your body. Learn a little more about the procedure below.
How The ESG Procedure Is Performed
The ESG procedure is performed with the aid of an endoscope that allows the surgeon to visualize the stomach cavity with the aid of a camera attached to the endoscopic tube. The patient is placed under anesthesia and the endoscope is inserted into your mouth and guided down your throat and into the stomach region. The endoscope is also equipped with special tools that allow the surgeon to place stitches around the stomach cavity to reinforce its shape and reduce its size, meaning there is no need for an incision in order to access the stomach. Not only does this help reduce recovery time, but there’s also less risk of an infection.
Most patients can be discharged the same day as surgery, but it will depend on your specific situation. You’ll also have at least one follow up appointment with your surgeon to ensure everything looks as expected, but most patients are well on their way to continued weight loss shortly after the procedure is complete.
For the sake of full disclosure, it’s worth noting that some patients with certain types of acid reflux conditions or a narrow esophagus may not be eligible for the ESG procedure, but we can still help you find ways to reach your weight loss goals. Also, because of the nature of the operation, it’s likely that it will not be covered by insurance, but you can call them and find out. Our team also offers flexible payment plans in the event that you have to cover the majority of your surgical expenses.
So if you’re no longer feeling the effects of your initial weight loss surgery and you’re wondering if an ESG procedure could help you get back on track, reach out to Dr. Bhatti and the team at Bhatti GI Consultants today.
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