Deciding to pursue medical help for weight loss is a powerful step toward a healthier life. For many, traditional surgical weight loss procedures feel like too big a leap due to their invasive nature. Fortunately, a newer, minimally invasive procedure is changing the landscape of weight loss. The endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) offers a powerful solution for significant weight loss without the incisions and extended recovery of conventional bariatric surgery.
What Is the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty Weight Loss Procedure (ESG)?
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is a state-of-the-art, non-surgical weight loss procedure. Unlike traditional weight loss surgery, ESG is performed endoscopically. This means a specialized device is passed through your mouth and into your stomach, so there are no external cuts, incisions, or scars.
Using this endoscopic tool, a specialist places a series of sutures in the stomach wall. These sutures are then cinched together to reduce the stomach size by about 70-80%, reshaping it into a smaller, banana-shaped pouch. This smaller stomach limits the amount of food you can eat, helping you feel full much faster and stay full longer.
How ESG Mimics Gastric Bypass — But Without the Risks
The ESG procedure reduces the stomach volume internally without any surgical incisions. This fundamentally lowers the risk of complications and adverse side effects. Because the digestive tract’s anatomy is not rerouted, the body’s ability to absorb nutrients remains normal, which is a major advantage over gastric bypass.
Traditional surgical weight loss procedures like gastric bypass involve cutting and stapling the stomach and rerouting the small intestine. This carries significant risks, including infection, leaks, and long-term nutritional deficiencies.
Advantages of ESG Over Traditional Bariatric Surgery
The benefits of choosing ESG over options like the gastric sleeve or gastric bypass are substantial. Its minimally invasive nature is the source of its primary advantages.
- No Scars: The procedure is performed entirely through the mouth, leaving no external scars.
- Faster Recovery: Patients typically return to their normal activities within just a few days, compared to the weeks or months of recovery required after bariatric surgery.
- Lower Risk Profile: ESG has a significantly lower rate of serious complications.
- Reversible: While designed to be a long-term solution, the sutures can be removed if necessary.
- Reduced Risk of Side Effects: Issues like “dumping syndrome,” common after gastric bypass, are not a concern with ESG.
Who Is a Good Candidate for ESG?
ESG is designed for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher who have been unsuccessful in achieving significant weight loss with diet and exercise alone. It is an excellent option for those who may not qualify for traditional bariatric surgery or for those who want to avoid the risks associated with more invasive procedures.
A good candidate for ESG is someone who is:
- Ready to commit to a comprehensive weight loss plan that includes new eating habits.
- Motivated to achieve long-term weight loss and improve their overall health.
- Looking to reduce health risks associated with excess body weight, such as high blood pressure or sleep apnea.
- Seeking a procedure with a strong safety profile.
ESG and Lifestyle: The Winning Combination
- Healthier Eating Habits
- ESG reduces stomach size, encouraging portion control.
- Individuals are better able to adopt balanced meal plans that focus on nutrient-dense foods.
- Sustainable Weight Loss
- ESG supports gradual and steady weight loss, making it easier to maintain over time.
- This aligns with lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and mindful eating for long-term success.
- Improved Overall Health
- Combining ESG with healthier habits can lower the risk of conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol issues.
- Patients often report increased energy levels and improved sleep quality, which can enhance day-to-day well-being.
- Positive Psychological Impacts
- Seeing progress through both ESG and lifestyle improvements boosts motivation and self-esteem.
- Setting realistic goals and monitoring progress fosters a sense of accomplishment and accountability.
What to Expect During and After ESG at 4 Ward Wellness
At 4 Ward Wellness, our focus is on patient safety, comfort, and outstanding results. The ESG procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia.
- During the Procedure: The process itself takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Our specialist will use the endoscope to place the sutures and reshape your stomach while you rest comfortably.
- After the Procedure: You will be monitored for a few hours in a recovery area before being discharged to go home the same day. You will follow a specific dietary progression, starting with liquids, progressing to soft foods, and then to a normal diet over several weeks. Our team provides comprehensive support throughout this entire process.
ESG Compared to Other Non-Surgical Options
When exploring non-surgical weight loss, ESG stands out as a leading option. Other options include intragastric balloons, temporary devices placed in the stomach to take up space, and various weight-loss medications.
While balloons can be effective, they must be removed after six months, and many people experience weight gain afterward. Medications can be helpful but may have side effects and often require continuous use. ESG provides a more durable, one-time solution that leads to greater weight loss and better long-term maintenance than these other non-surgical methods.
Frequently Asked Questions About ESG
- Is ESG painful?
You will be under general anesthesia and feel nothing during the procedure. Afterward, some patients experience mild nausea or abdominal discomfort for a few days, which is easily managed with prescribed medication. - How much weight can I lose with ESG?
On average, patients can expect to lose 15-20% of their total body weight within the first 12 to 18 months. Results vary based on adherence to the recommended diet and exercise plan. - Is ESG covered by insurance?
Coverage for endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is improving, but it still varies by insurance provider. Our team at 4 Ward Wellness will help you understand your benefits and explore all available financing options.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
If you have struggled to meet your weight loss goals and are looking for an effective, minimally invasive solution that avoids the risks of surgical weight loss procedures, it may be time to talk to a doctor. If your BMI is 30 or higher and you are ready to make a lasting commitment to your health, ESG could be the right choice for you.
Scheduling a consultation is the best first step. The Allied Digestive Health Professionals can evaluate your medical history, discuss your health goals, and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. This conversation can provide the clarity and confidence you need to move forward on your path to a healthier future.
