The Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is the newest FDA approved treatment for obesity. Longstreet Clinic Center for Weight Management is proud to be the first in the region to offer this procedure. Unlike the somewhat similar laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve surgery, the ESG procedure is incisionless and also performed by a weight loss surgeon using a specialized endoscopic suture device in order to decrease the size of the stomach with permanent sutures.
Benefits of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty include:
- Less downtime
- No incisions
- All organs remain in tact
- Lower cost
- Proven results
Combined with a lasting commitment to a healthy lifestyle, the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty offers a kickstart to significant weight loss. Perhaps most impressive, the ESG offers similar results to established bariatric surgeries – but in a quicker, less invasive fashion, with patients often returning to a normal routine after a few days of at-home recovery.
In fact, many patients are now utilizing Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty as an alternative to laparoscopic surgeries and experiencing the same weight loss success. A well-tolerated, incisionless, minimally invasive outpatient procedure, ESG also offers a route to better health for those who otherwise do not qualify for bariatric surgery.
How it Works
After receiving sedation anesthesia, a bariatric surgeon will insert a thin, flexible endoscope into the patient’s stomach (via the mouth and throat). That is why there is no incision required. Via this camera-guided endoscopy, the surgeon will insert sutures into the lining of the stomach.
The sutures – which are made of a durable, permanent material – essentially separate a section of the stomach. This makes the portion of the stomach that accepts and digests food 70-80% smaller than it was before, which dramatically reduces the amount of food you will need to eat in order to feel full. In turn, this limits the amount of calories that you will ingest and also allows you to feel full longer.
The entire procedure lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes and will help you kickstart the weight loss process. Only your stomach is affected (other bariatric surgeries may require incisions in your small intestine).
Over time, your stomach will naturally bridge over the sutures. This new tissue seals off the reduced stomach – which is now more of a tube shape.
In the hours following surgery, the patient begins a liquid diet, which will last for two weeks, before proceeding to a semi-solid food diet and regular foods within a short time. Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty also does not require you to maintain a strict vitamin regimen post-surgery such as with laparoscopic bariatric procedures.
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty Results
Because of the nature of the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty, you will begin seeing weight loss results within days. In fact, within the first month following the procedure you can expect to see the most drastic losses.
Currently recognized as the most effective non-surgical weight loss procedure available, studies show that patients lose an average of 14% of their body weight within one year of undergoing ESG. Of course, results vary from patient to patient, but our experience proves that ESG is both effective, safe and highly tolerable.
Patients who undergo ESG often see more improvements than just weight loss. Those who struggle with co-morbidities from obesity – such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, asthma, and even heart problems – may see those concerns reduced or resolved.
However, understand that while the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty can kickstart your weight loss journey, it must be combined with a commitment to healthy living to achieve lasting and ultimate success. That is why our clinic maintains a commitment to our patients throughout their weight loss journeys, staying in touch to ensure that you have everything you need to reach and maintain your goals and enjoy your best health.
We offer diverse assistance, such as support groups to encourage you along the way guidance in the kitchen (including recipes), and even access to a clothes closet to help when you’re moving through different clothing sizes due to weight loss.
Who is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) Designed For?
ESG is only an option for those patients battling obesity. That is why it is ideal for those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above and who have not succeeded in other weight loss attempts – such as diet and exercise alone. That is why our caring and supportive staff at the Center for Weight Management will take into account your medical history before developing the best plan for you.
It is also a solution for those weight loss patients who either do not qualify for or cannot undergo bariatric surgery.
ESG also is intended for patients age 21 and above, as authorized by the FDA.
It is also ideal for any patient who is battling co-morbidities due to weight gain, including but not limited to:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- High Cholesterol
- Asthma
- Sleep Apnea
- Joint Problems
- Heart Disease
ESG is not a shortcut to weight loss. It is part of a total commitment to health for someone who has tried and failed at other methods of weight loss. This procedure may offer some incredible results but also requires responsibility on the part of the patient. Like all bariatric procedures, it too can fail if not approached correctly by the patient.
Advantages of ESG
Because of its non-surgical nature, ESG offers several advantages over other bariatric procedures, starting with the fact that it is performed in an outpatient setting that allows you to return home the same day it is performed. Many patients also return to work within 2 to 3 days.
Other advantages of ESG include:
- No incisions
- All organs remain intact
- Reduces stomach capacity (and thus calorie intake)
- Only affects the stomach
- Average excess weight loss in the range of 50-60%
ESG complications are also exceedingly rare, and the entire procedure is reversible. If your sutures fail or develop scar tissue over time, they can be retightened by the surgeon.
Considerations of ESG
Because ESG is relatively new, it is not yet covered by most insurance plans. However because it is a non-surgical, outpatient procedure, it does cost less than surgical options. Our office will work with you to outline what to expect from a cost perspective and discuss a payment plan if needed.
ESG is proven both effective and well-tolerated. Some common side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, burping or diarrhea. However, these symptoms typically resolve within 30 to 60 days.
As with any weight loss procedure, your new stomach (sleeve) can stretch over time. However, doctors may still perform a retightening procedure to restore the sleeve.
Paying for ESG
Though FDA approved, most insurances are not covering the procedure at this time. To help our patients pay for surgery, we are offering a special introductory rate of $9,999* (regularly $11,999).
Price includes:
- Initial Consultation
- Comprehensive Bariatric Nutrition Consultation
- Surgeon fee
- Facility fee
- Anesthesia fee
- Post-op visit
- 12 months of follow up care with Nurse Practitioner and/or Registered Dietician
*Price does not include pre op testing or medications
The Center for Weight Management offers a variety of payment plan and financing options. Read more about those here.
Talk to us about ESG Today
Losing weight is about finding what works best for each patient. The staff at the Center for Weight Management understands there are no cookie-cutter solutions or “typical” approaches to weight loss. We understand that each patient faces unique challenges based on his or her history, genetic make-up and current life status.
Non-surgical weight loss has proven a significant aid to many patients across the country and here in north Georgia, and we will work with you to determine just how best to serve your needs and meet your goals. That’s why Longstreet Clinic Center for Weight Management is the first in the region to offer ESG and made it a priority to include as one of the options that we can offer our patients.
Ultimately, we’ll find the right path for success together, and should ESG not be the right choice for you, we will find the solution that will get results and get you on top of your health.
Are you ready to change your life? Contact us today to learn more about our non-surgical procedures and take the steps toward regaining control of your health and happiness.
Longstreet’s Center for Weight Management is proud to offer all these options at our multiple north Georgia locations.
Want to learn more? Watch our online seminar then fill out our contact form and our office team will reach out to you. Or please call our main office at 770-534-0110 or toll-free at 877-921-0110.
