If you’ve struggled with weight loss despite dieting, exercise, or even medications, you’re not alone. Like many others, I know how frustrating it can be when your efforts just don’t bring the lasting results you’re hoping for. That’s why procedures like Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) are becoming a beacon of hope for people looking for a non-surgical, yet effective & permanent, way to lose weight.
So, how effective is it really? Let’s dive in.
What Is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)?
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty, or ESG, is a minimally invasive, non-surgical weight loss procedure that helps reduce the size of your stomach using an endoscope and sutures. There are no cuts, no removal of any part of the stomach, and no hospital stay in most cases.
During the procedure, a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth and into the stomach. Then, the doctor places stitches to reshape your stomach into a tube-like structure. This smaller stomach helps you feel full faster and eat less.
Why I Recommend ESG for Certain Patients
As part of a bariatric care team, we often recommend ESG for people who:
- Have a BMI between 30 and 40
- Are not candidates for traditional bariatric surgery
- Prefer a less invasive option with a quicker recovery
- Are committed to making long-term lifestyle changes
- Are unfit for surgery
If you’re thinking, “This sounds like me,” keep reading.
How Much Weight Can We Expect to Lose?
Let’s talk results—because that’s what we’re all here for.
On average, patients lose about 15–20% of their total body weight within 12 to 18 months after ESG. While that’s typically less than what we see with gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, ESG offers a meaningful amount of weight loss without major surgery.
From what we’ve seen in our clinic and what the research shows, weight loss with ESG is gradual but steady—especially when you follow the post-procedure diet and stay active. The key is consistency, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Other Benefits Beyond the Scale
While shedding pounds is the main goal, ESG often helps improve:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Sleep apnea
- Joint pain and mobility issues
Many of our patients tell us they sleep better, breathe easier, and feel more energetic within weeks of starting their weight loss journey.
What’s Recovery Like?
This is one of my favorite parts to talk about—because recovery is usually quick and smooth.
- ESG is done on an outpatient basis, so most people go home the same day.
- Mild discomfort like bloating or nausea is normal for a few days.
- You’ll start with a liquid diet and gradually move to soft foods before returning to regular meals.
Most of our patients are back to work and normal activities within a few days.
Risks and Considerations
No procedure is completely risk-free, and we want to be transparent about that. Some rare risks of ESG include:
- Stomach pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Acid reflux
- Unintended suture loosening over time
That’s why we do a thorough assessment before recommending ESG. We also follow up closely after the procedure to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Is ESG Right for You?
ESG is an exciting option if you:
- Want a less invasive weight loss procedure
- Are committed to making dietary and lifestyle changes
- Are looking for a safer alternative to surgery with real results
But like I always tell my patients, this is a partnership. ESG works best when we work together—through follow-ups, nutritional support, and lifestyle coaching.
Final Thoughts
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty isn’t magic—but it’s a powerful tool when combined with the right support. If you’re ready to take control of your health without undergoing surgery, ESG could be a perfect fit.
Let’s talk. Book a consultation today with me (Dr. Girish Juneja) and find out if ESG is the next step in your weight loss journey. We’re here to help you feel better, live healthier, and finally achieve the results you’ve been working so hard for.
Dr Girish( one of very few who) offers all the latest techniques for ESG viz.-OVERSTITCH , POSE2 ,also in near future the latest ENDOMINA.