If you’re considering bariatric surgery, you may be familiar with a gastric sleeve procedure. However, the non-surgical alternative – endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) – can produce similar results without incisions, long recovery time, and risk of surgical complications.
DR. CHRISTOPHER MCGOWN
Dr. Christopher McGowan, MD, a leader in endobariatrics, specializes in non-surgical obesity treatments and is triple-board-certified in Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, and Obesity Medicine. Renowned for pioneering endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) with over 2,000 procedures, his global influence and research contributions define him as a top expert.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a non-surgical weight loss procedure that reduces the stomach to a small sleeve-like pouch, limiting food intake to help a person lose excess body weight quickly and sustainably.
What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)?
In an ESG procedure, a highly trained gastroenterologist sutures the stomach from the inside, reducing its size by up to 80 percent. Unlike a gastric sleeve surgery, no part of the stomach is removed; it’s simply sewn into a much smaller, tube- or sleeve-shaped gastric pouch. The procedure uses an endoscope, a flexible tube fitted with a camera, and a suturing device, which is routed into the stomach through the mouth and down the throat.
Who are the Candidates for ESG?
Candidates for ESG typically include individuals who:
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher
- Have been diagnosed with one or more obesity-related conditions, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
- Have been unable to lose weight through diet and exercise alone
- Are not good candidates for traditional bariatric surgery for various reasons
- Do not want to undergo traditional bariatric surgery
Benefits of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
Lower Risk of Complications
ESG is performed with an endoscope, requiring no abdominal incisions or hospitalization. The risk of complications with ESG is less than one percent, significantly lower than the 10 to 20 percent risk associated with bariatric surgery.
Shorter Recovery Time
Due to the minimal risk of complications, patients can return home the same day and resume work within about three days. Traditional bariatric surgery, in contrast, requires weeks of recovery and pain management.
Improved Overall Health
Beyond weight loss, ESG can help reduce HbA1c levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol, contributing to overall health improvements. Other potential benefits include reduced joint pain, resolved sleep apnea symptoms, improved fertility, and enhancements in anxiety and depression.
Better Relationship with Food
ESG helps patients develop a better understanding of diet and nutrition. At True You Weight Loss, we provide nutritional guidance and support, encouraging mindful eating without restricting specific foods or food groups.
Unaffected Nutrient Absorption
Since no part of the stomach is removed during ESG, nutrient absorption remains unaffected. Some nutrient supplementation may be necessary due to reduced food intake.
Potential Cons of ESG
ESG is a Tool, Not a Cure
While ESG is an excellent treatment option, it is not a cure for obesity. Achieving optimal results requires a commitment to lifestyle changes.
Weight Loss Compared to Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery remains the gold standard for weight loss, often resulting in a 25 percent reduction in body weight. ESG typically achieves a national average weight loss of 17 percent, though True You Weight Loss patients see an average of 23 percent due to our comprehensive support system.
Insurance Coverage Challenges
ESG and other non-surgical weight loss procedures are not yet covered by most health insurance plans. At True You Weight Loss, we offer financing options to make the procedure accessible.
Why Choose True You Weight Loss for ESG?
True You Weight Loss is an industry leader in endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty. Our physicians – Dr. Christopher McGowan, Dr. Lauren Donnangelo, and Dr. Daniel Maselli – are experts in endoscopic suturing and endobariatric procedures, regularly training other doctors in their cutting-edge techniques. They are triple-board-certified in gastroenterology, internal medicine, and obesity medicine.
Our center provides 24/7 concierge care, direct physician access after your procedure, and the support and guidance of our expert nutrition team. We are committed to your success and offer a lifetime of follow-up and support.
Learn more about endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty at True You Weight Loss by scheduling a free consultation.
