800-TEMPLE-MED Schedule Appointment
SEARCH TEMPLE HEALTH

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)

A Non-Surgical Weight Loss Option

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a minimally invasive, endoscopic weight loss procedure that helps patients lose weight without traditional surgery. ESG reduces the size of the stomach using sutures placed from the inside with no incisions and no removal of stomach tissue.

ESG may be an option if you have a body mass index (BMI) between 30 and 50, have not achieved lasting results with diet and exercise alone, or are not a candidate for bariatric surgery.

What Is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?

During ESG, a specially trained physician uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) inserted through the mouth to place sutures inside the stomach. These sutures:

  • Reduce the size of the stomach
  • Reshape it into a sleeve-like structure
  • Help you feel full sooner
  • Support portion control and reduced calorie intake

The procedure is performed entirely through the mouth — no external incisions are made — and patients typically go home the same day.

How Is ESG Different from Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

ESG fills the treatment gap between lifestyle/medications and surgical weight-loss procedures. Unlike traditional bariatric surgery:

  • No external incisions
  • No part of the stomach is removed
  • No surgical staples
  • Typically a faster recovery
  • Lower risk profile compared to surgery

Is ESG Right for You?

You may be a candidate for Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty if you:

  • Have a BMI between 30 and 50
  • Have not had success with diet and exercise alone
  • Want to avoid or are not eligible for weight loss surgery
  • Are looking for a minimally invasive weight loss option
  • Are committed to long-term lifestyle changes

ESG is not appropriate for everyone. Certain medical conditions or prior stomach surgeries may affect eligibility. A specialist will review your medical history and goals to determine whether ESG is right for you.

The Procedure: What to Expect

Before the Procedure

Before ESG, you’ll meet with your care team for an evaluation, which may include:

  • Medical history review
  • Lab testing
  • Nutrition counseling
  • Pre-procedure dietary guidelines

During the Procedure

  • ESG is performed using an endoscope passed through the mouth
  • Sutures are placed inside the stomach to reduce its volume
  • The procedure typically takes 60–90 minutes
  • You’ll receive anesthesia for comfort

After the Procedure

  • ESG is usually an outpatient procedure and most patients return home the same day
  • Mild nausea or abdominal discomfort is common and temporary
  • Most people return to normal daily activities within a few days
  • Your care team will provide detailed recovery and dietary instructions

Benefits and Results of ESG

At Temple Health, ESG is part of a comprehensive program that includes medical follow-up, nutrition support, and long-term care to help you maintain your results. Results vary by individual and long-term success depends on ongoing lifestyle changes and follow-up care. When combined with nutrition and lifestyle changes, ESG can help patients achieve meaningful weight loss.

Benefits of ESG include:

  • Average weight loss of 15–20% of total body weight within 12 months
  • Reduced stomach volume by approximately 70%
  • No incisions or visible scars
  • Lower risk than traditional bariatric surgery
  • Faster recovery time

Life After ESG: Ongoing Support

Our goal is to help you achieve and maintain long-term weight loss safely and sustainably. Successful weight loss after ESG depends on continued support and lifestyle changes.

At Temple Health, your care includes:

  • Structured post-procedure diet progression
  • Nutrition counseling
  • Ongoing follow-up visits
  • Access to a multidisciplinary weight loss team

Why Choose Temple Health for ESG?

Temple Health offers comprehensive, patient-centered care for minimally invasive weight loss procedures.

  • Experienced physicians specializing in endoscopic weight loss
  • Multidisciplinary support before and after your procedure
  • Convenient Philadelphia-area locations
  • Commitment to long-term patient success

ESG at Temple Health is performed by a physician with expertise in:

  • Endoscopic bariatric procedures (ESG, TORe)
  • Obesity medicine
  • Collaborative care with bariatric surgery

This combined training allows for a comprehensive approach to weight loss — integrating minimally invasive procedures with medical management and long-term metabolic care.

Frequently Asked Questions About ESG

How long does the ESG procedure take?

The procedure typically takes 60–90 minutes.

Is ESG reversible?

In some cases, ESG can be reversed or revised.

How much weight will I lose with ESG?

Many patients lose 15–20% of their total body weight within one year.

Will I have scars after ESG?

No. ESG involves no external incisions.

How long is recovery after ESG?

Most patients return to normal activities within a week.

Is ESG the same as gastric sleeve surgery?

No. ESG does not involve removing any part of the stomach and is performed endoscopically.

Is ESG Safe?

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) has been shown in clinical studies to be safe and effective when performed by experienced physicians within a structured program. The most common temporary side effects include: Nausea Abdominal discomfort or cramping Vomiting These symptoms are expected, typically mild to moderate, and usually improve within a few days to one week with medication and supportive care. Serious complications — such as bleeding, infection, or injury to the stomach — are uncommon.

Take the First Step Toward Weight Loss

If you’re looking for a non-surgical weight loss option, Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty may be right for you. Schedule a consultation by calling 800-TEMPLE-MED.