For individuals seeking effective, minimally invasive weight loss solutions, endoscopic weight loss surgery offers a range of options. These procedures provide significant weight loss benefits, often without the need for large incisions or major surgery. This article explores the different types of endoscopic weight loss surgeries, their associated costs, and the advantages they offer.
Understanding Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a non-surgical, minimally invasive weight loss procedure designed to reduce the size of the stomach using an endoscope-a flexible tube with a camera and suturing device. Unlike traditional surgical options such as Gastric Bypass or Gastric Sleeve Surgery, ESG does not require any external incisions or removal of stomach tissue.
How ESG Works
During the ESG procedure, an endoscope equipped with a suturing system is inserted through the mouth and into the stomach. The physician then places a series of sutures along the stomach wall, effectively reducing its volume by up to 70-80%. This innovative technique allows patients to feel fuller with less food, supporting sustainable weight loss. The ESG, or accordion procedure, is a weight loss procedure that involves reducing the size of the stomach. Unlike gastric sleeve surgery, no part of the stomach is removed during this procedure. Instead, sutures are used to make the stomach smaller. ESG leaves no external scarring or external sutures because it is performed via an endoscope inserted through the mouth. The procedure helps patients lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach, which therefore reduces the amount of food that patients need to feel full.
Expected Weight Loss and Health Improvements
Patients who undergo ESG can expect to lose approximately 15-20% of their total body weight within the first year following the procedure. This outcome is comparable to some surgical weight loss methods but with fewer risks and a shorter recovery time. Beyond weight loss, ESG can significantly improve obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and joint pain. Many patients report increased energy, improved mobility, and a better overall quality of life after the procedure. Many people find their type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure have reversed, and they no longer need their daily medication. They have higher energy levels, are able to get quality sleep, and they find it easier to move around. Most people lose an average of 60% of their excess weight in a 12-month time frame after they have ESG.
Cost of ESG
The cost of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty can vary depending on the provider, location, and specific patient needs. On average, ESG costs range from $8,000 to $15,000. This includes the procedure itself, pre-operative assessments, anesthesia, and post-procedure follow-ups. In the United States today, the endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty cost usually runs between $9,000 and $15,000. This can be broken down into low monthly payments with qualified financing. Sometimes, the doctor provides only the base price, and then additional fees are calculated separately.
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While ESG is not always covered by insurance, many clinics offer flexible financing options to make the procedure more accessible. Investing in ESG can lead to significant long-term savings by reducing healthcare costs associated with obesity-related illnesses.
Risks and Recovery
Like any medical procedure, ESG carries some risks. The most common complications include nausea, abdominal pain, and temporary difficulty swallowing. Serious complications are rare but can include infection, bleeding, or stomach leaks. Most ESG patients are up and back to their normal routine in just a few days. After having ESG, most people do not experience any pain or side effects, and those who do usually only have temporary and mild ones for a few days. ESG is much safer than surgery, and it is easier to qualify for, so it is a wonderful choice for individuals who may not be in good health and would not qualify for bariatric surgery.
Recovery from ESG is typically swift, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few days. A liquid diet is recommended for the first week, followed by a gradual transition to soft foods and then a regular, healthy diet. Adhering to your healthcare provider’s post-procedure instructions is essential for optimal results.
Preparing for ESG
Preparation for ESG begins with a comprehensive consultation, where your medical history, weight loss goals, and lifestyle are assessed. You may be asked to undergo certain lab tests and imaging studies. Dietary adjustments, such as a low-calorie diet, may be recommended in the weeks leading up to the procedure to shrink the liver and improve safety.
On the day of your ESG, you will receive sedation to ensure comfort. The endoscopic procedure is performed through the mouth, so there are no visible scars. After the procedure, you will be monitored for a few hours before being discharged. Most patients experience mild discomfort, which resolves quickly.
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Selecting a Reputable Clinic
Selecting a reputable clinic is essential for a safe and successful ESG experience. Look for clinics with experienced, board-certified gastroenterologists or bariatric specialists who have performed numerous ESG procedures.
Other Types of Endoscopic Weight Loss Procedures
Besides ESG, other endoscopic procedures can aid in weight loss. These include:
Gastric Balloon
A balloon-like medical device is placed in the stomach via an endoscope and filled with saline solution to create a feeling of fullness, reducing food intake. The balloon is removed after six to eight months, and patients follow a doctor-supervised plan for a year. The cost of a gastric balloon is between $6,000 and $9,000.
Comparing Endoscopic and Surgical Options
When considering weight loss procedures, it's crucial to compare endoscopic options with traditional surgical methods. Here's a brief overview of surgical procedures:
Gastric Sleeve Surgery (Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy): This procedure involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a small sleeve-shaped section. This reduces the stomach size, making the individual feel full with less food. The national average cost of gastric sleeve surgery can vary between $15,067 and $38,045, depending on the type of surgery.
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Gastric Bypass: This surgery not only reduces stomach size but also reroutes part of the intestine to limit food intake and decrease calorie absorption.
Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band): An inflatable band is placed around the upper portion of the stomach to create a smaller section, restricting the amount of food the individual can eat.
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS): This complex surgery involves reducing the stomach size and rerouting a larger portion of the intestines than in gastric bypass surgery. It significantly limits both food consumption and calorie absorption.
Advantages of Endoscopic Procedures
Endoscopic procedures like ESG offer several advantages over traditional surgery, including:
- Minimally Invasive: No incisions are required, reducing the risk of complications and scarring.
- Faster Recovery: Patients typically return to normal activities within a few days.
- Lower Risk: Endoscopic procedures generally have a lower risk of complications compared to surgery.
- Reversible: ESG reduces the size of the stomach without removing any part of it.
Additional Considerations
Insurance Coverage and Financing
Navigating the costs of weight loss procedures can be challenging. While some bariatric surgeries may be covered or partially covered by insurance, it's essential to verify coverage with your insurance provider. Many clinics offer financing options to make these procedures more accessible.
Lifestyle Changes
Regardless of the type of weight loss procedure chosen, adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial for long-term success. This includes following a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and addressing any emotional or psychological factors that may contribute to overeating. After having ESG, most people do not experience any pain or side effects, and those who do usually only have temporary and mild ones for a few days.
Post-Surgery Considerations
- Diet: Solid food can usually be introduced back into the diet around six weeks postsurgery. A liquid diet is recommended for the first week, followed by a gradual transition to soft foods and then a regular, healthy diet.
- Dumping Syndrome: Dumping syndrome occurs when the digestive tract has been shortened, causing more rapid movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine.
- Pregnancy: Yes, it is possible to get pregnant after gastric sleeve surgery. Weight loss surgery may even help your chance of conceiving.