Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty — commonly known as ESG — is a newer, non-surgical weight-loss procedure that reduces the functional size of your stomach using an endoscope. The endoscope is a thin, flexible tube with a camera and suturing device that is guided through your mouth and into your stomach, so there are no external cuts or scars.
During the procedure, a series of sutures (stitches) are placed along the inside of the stomach, folding and reshaping it into a narrow, sleeve-like structure. This reduces the stomach’s capacity significantly, so you feel full sooner and consume fewer calories at each meal.
Because the procedure is entirely endoscopic, recovery is typically much faster than traditional bariatric surgery. Most patients go home the same day and return to normal activities within a few days. ESG is an excellent option for people who want meaningful, lasting weight loss without the risks and downtime of open or laparoscopic surgery.
Your care team will complete a thorough assessment including your medical history, BMI, and current health status. You may be asked to follow a pre-procedure liquid diet for a short period beforehand. You will also receive instructions about fasting and any medications to pause prior to your appointment.
ESG is performed under sedation, typically taking 60 to 90 minutes. The endoscope is passed through the mouth into the stomach, where a suturing device places a series of stitches that fold the stomach tissue inward. This reshapes the stomach into a sleeve, reducing its volume by approximately 70 to 80 percent.
Most patients are discharged the same day and feel well enough to return to light activities within two to three days. You will follow a staged diet progression starting with clear fluids, then pureed foods, and gradually advancing to regular meals over several weeks. Ongoing support from our team helps you build lasting habits alongside your weight loss.
Your care team will conduct a full evaluation during your consultation to confirm ESG is the right approach for your individual health profile and goals.
ESG is considered a low-risk procedure compared to traditional bariatric surgery, but it is not without potential side effects. We believe fully informed patients make better decisions, and we take the time to walk through all of this with you during your consultation.
Common short-term side effects include nausea, bloating, and mild abdominal discomfort for the first few days following the procedure. Some patients experience acid reflux, which is usually manageable with medication. Serious complications such as bleeding or suture-related issues are rare but possible.
Unlike surgical procedures, ESG does not involve removing any portion of the stomach, and the sutures can be revised endoscopically if needed. Long-term success depends heavily on maintaining healthy eating habits and engaging with our follow-up support program.
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This tool is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. See your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.