Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a less invasive weight loss procedure that uses an endoscope to reduce the size of the stomach. This procedure is typically recommended for those who struggle with obesity and have had little success with traditional methods of weight loss such as diet and exercise. The aim of ESG is to reduce a person’s appetite by shrinking the size of their stomach and, as a result, limiting the amount of food that can be comfortably eaten.
A Closer Look at Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
Unlike surgical weight loss procedures, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is performed without incisions. Instead, doctors use an endoscope (a long, flexible tube with a camera and tools at the end) inserted through the mouth to reach the stomach. With the help of the camera, sutures are strategically placed in the stomach, altering its structure to create a smaller, tube-shaped stomach that holds less food.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is considered as a more cost-effective and less risky option than other weight loss surgeries. One of the considerable advantages of ESG is that it is a scarless process that involves a shorter hospital stay and recovery time. Most individuals are able to return to their normal routine within a week.
Comparing ESG with Other Weight Loss Procedures
ESG is often compared to other weight loss surgeries like Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy. However, one key difference is that ESG is reversible and does not permanently alter the anatomy. This provides good flexibility and control over the weight management journey.
Another significant comparison often drawn is between Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty and Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy. Both procedures aim to reduce the size of the stomach, but they vary greatly in the method and extent of the operation. Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a part of the stomach, making it into a sleeve-like structure, thus limiting the amount of food intake. On the other hand, Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty achieves similar results but via internal suturing of the stomach, and without the need for external incisions.
When considering weight loss procedures, it’s important to consider factors like cost. For example, thelaparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy Los Angeles cost can be significant, and is typically higher than the cost of ESG. However, the selection of an appropriate weight loss procedure should be made with a comprehensive understanding of the process, benefits, risks, and most importantly, under the guidance of a proficient medical professional.
Who Can Opt for Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is potentially an option for anyone who’s severely overweight and hasn’t been able to lose weight with traditional weight loss strategies. Ideal candidates are adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more. However, ESG is not suitable for everyone and certain criteria need to be met. A detailed discussion with the healthcare provider is indispensable before considering ESG or any other weight loss procedure.
Conclusion: Lifetime Commitment to a Healthy Lifestyle
While endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty aids in weight loss, it is not a standalone solution. It is essential to incorporate a balanced diet, regular exercise routine, and continuous monitoring of weight as an integral part of the lifestyle after the procedure. Support from dieticians, psychologists, and exercise physiologists is equally crucial to sustain the long-term weight loss success and to maintain a healthy life.