A minimally invasive approach to sustainable weight management
For many people struggling with excess weight, the choice may seem limited to invasive surgery or repeated diets that do not deliver lasting results. However, there is a middle-ground option gaining recognition worldwide: Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG). This minimally invasive procedure supports meaningful, sustained weight loss without surgical incisions.
At Burjeel Digestive Health Institute, Abu Dhabi, our consultant gastroenterologists offer ESG as an advanced weight management option for patients who have not achieved lasting results through lifestyle measures alone and are seeking an alternative to traditional bariatric surgery.
What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty is a non-surgical, incisionless weight-loss procedure performed through the mouth using an endoscope. Unlike surgical sleeve gastrectomy, which removes part of the stomach, ESG uses internal sutures to reshape the stomach into a smaller, sleeve-like structure.
This reduces the stomach’s capacity and helps patients feel full sooner. As there are no external incisions, ESG generally involves a shorter recovery period and a lower risk of serious complications than bariatric surgery.
How Does the ESG Procedure Work?
- Preparation: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 60–90 minutes.
- Endoscope insertion: A flexible endoscope fitted with a suturing device is passed through the mouth into the stomach, without external incisions.
- Suturing: The physician places a series of sutures in the stomach wall, folding it into a narrower, sleeve-like shape and significantly reducing its functional volume.
- Recovery: Most patients go home the same day or after a short observation period and can usually resume light activities within a few days.
The smaller stomach capacity and delayed gastric emptying help patients feel satisfied with smaller portions, supporting long-term weight loss when combined with appropriate dietary and lifestyle changes.
Who is a Candidate for ESG?
ESG may be suitable for patients who:
- Have a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27–29.9 with at least one obesity-related medical condition
- Have struggled to achieve or maintain weight loss through lifestyle measures
- Prefer a less invasive alternative to bariatric surgery
- Do not have medical or anatomical conditions that would make the procedure unsuitable
- Are committed to long-term dietary, lifestyle, and medical follow-up
A comprehensive evaluation, including medical history, physical assessment, and consultation with a consultant experienced in endoscopic weight-management procedures, is essential before determining candidacy.
Benefits of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
- No external incisions
- Shorter recovery than bariatric surgery
- Lower risk of serious complications than surgical procedures
- Preservation of the stomach without surgical removal
- Meaningful and sustained weight loss when combined with lifestyle support
Why Burjeel Digestive Health Institute Recommends ESG?
Our consultant gastroenterologists and multidisciplinary team take an individualized approach to weight management. Each patient is carefully evaluated to determine whether ESG, another procedure, medication, or a structured non-surgical program is the most appropriate option.
For suitable patients seeking a minimally invasive approach to weight loss, ESG is an evidence-based option supported by comprehensive medical, nutritional, and lifestyle care.
Conclusion
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty offers an option for patients who have not achieved sufficient weight loss through lifestyle changes and are not ready for bariatric surgery. With no external incisions, a shorter recovery period, and meaningful weight-loss potential, ESG may be worth considering for appropriately selected patients.
As with any weight-loss procedure, long-term success depends on sustainable lifestyle changes and continued professional support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Results vary, but many patients achieve meaningful weight loss during the first 12–18 months. Individual outcomes depend on several factors, including adherence to dietary, lifestyle, and follow-up recommendations.
Most patients experience temporary nausea, abdominal discomfort, or cramping for a few days. These symptoms can usually be managed with medication.
ESG does not remove any part of the stomach. Although sutures may sometimes be revised or removed, ESG should not be presented as routinely or completely reversible.
Most patients resume light activities within a few days. Recovery varies, and patients must follow a staged dietary plan after the procedure.
Yes. ESG is a tool that supports weight loss, not a standalone solution. Long-term success requires healthy eating, physical activity, and regular medical and nutritional follow-up.
Consult a Consultant at Burjeel Digestive Health Institute
If lifestyle measures alone have not delivered the results you are looking for, Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty may be worth exploring. Our team at Burjeel Digestive Health Institute, Abu Dhabi, can assess your health profile and determine whether ESG is suitable for you.
Book your appointment at Burjeel Digestive Health Institute today and take the first step toward sustainable weight management.
