The ESG procedure is a nonsurgical approach to treating obesity (BMI 30+). It can be successful in patients who have not been able to lose weight through other methods, such as diet and exercise. It is also an option for those patients who don’t currently qualify for bariatric surgery, don’t wish to undergo surgery, or have large amounts of abdominal scar tissue from prior operations or injuries that may make surgery less safe.
BMI Calculator – CDC
We’ve provided a link to a useful tool for you to self-assess your BMI.
Obesity is frequently subdivided into categories:
Class 1: BMI of 30 to < 35
Class 2: BMI of 35 to < 40
Class 3: BMI of 40 or higher. Class 3 obesity is sometimes categorized as “extreme” or “severe” obesity.
Note: At an individual level, BMI can be used as a screening tool but is not diagnostic of the body fatness or the health of an individual.
A trained healthcare provider should perform appropriate health assessments in order to evaluate an individual’s health status and risks. If you have questions about your BMI, talk with your health care provider.
Source: Centers For Disease Control (CDC)
ESG provides an option between diet and exercise alone and bariatric surgery.
- No surgery
- Less expensive than surgical options
- Less recovery time and less complications than surgery
- Available to patients who may not be eligible for weight loss surgery
Help Reaching Your Weight Loss Goals
If you’re ready to jump-start your weight loss, ESG may be your best option. Whether preparing for an upcoming major event like a wedding or wanting to lose the 30 pounds you gained during your last pregnancy, the ESG procedure can help you reach your goals, whatever they may be.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ESG procedure is an endoscopic procedure that creates plications in the stomach to reduce the usable volume of the stomach. No parts of the body are removed or cut. The procedure creates a feeling of fullness and encourages healthy portion control. The procedure is combined with a personalized support program of nutrition and exercise. The ESG is an innovative and nonsurgical approach to weight loss.
The ESG results in a smaller functioning volume of the stomach and delays the passage of food out of the stomach. After the procedure the patient will experience less hunger and, as a result, consume smaller portions.
To qualify for this procedure you must be overweight with a BMI of at least 30. Calculate your BMI here.
Studies show most patients will lose between 15-20% of their current body weight.
The procedure is an outpatient endoscopic procedure.
- Light sedation is required.
- An endoscope (flexible small tube) will be passed through you mouth down into your stomach.
- Once in the stomach, your physician will place plications to reduce the usable volume of the stomach.
- You can go home the same day.
Following the procedure, you must follow a healthy diet and exercise program. If you do not continue your diet and exercise, you may not lose weight or maintain the weight you have lost already.
With the ESG you get a weight loss tool and a chance to learn a new way to feel about food. Be sure to follow up with your doctor and nutritionist to help you maintain your weight loss.
Follow your doctor’s instructions about what to eat and drink. You will be provided with written instructions for a staged diet that starts with a liquid diet and progresses from there. It’s important to work with your nutritionist about what to eat and drink.