No-Incision Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)
What Is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)?
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical weight loss procedure designed to reduce the size of the stomach without external incisions. During the procedure, an endoscope equipped with a suturing device is inserted through the mouth into the stomach, where internal stitches are placed to reshape the stomach into a smaller sleeve-like structure.
Because ESG is performed entirely through the mouth, there are no abdominal incisions or visible scars. The procedure helps patients feel full sooner, eat smaller portions, and maintain longer-lasting satiety. At Chicago Metabolic & Digestive Surgery Center, Dr. Jihad Kudsi provides advanced endoscopic and minimally invasive weight loss procedures for patients throughout Chicago and nearby suburban communities.
How ESG Works
During ESG, the stomach is reduced in size using a specialized endoscopic suturing system. The procedure decreases stomach volume by approximately 70–80%, helping patients consume less food while slowing stomach emptying.
Unlike traditional bariatric surgery, ESG does not require removal of any portion of the stomach and does not involve surgical incisions. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and often allows patients to return home the same day.
Who May Be a Candidate for ESG?
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty may be an option for adults who:
- Have a BMI of 30 or greater
- Have struggled with weight loss through diet and exercise alone
- Prefer a less invasive alternative to bariatric surgery
- Are seeking meaningful weight loss with shorter recovery time
- Are committed to long-term lifestyle changes
Some patients who are not candidates for traditional bariatric surgery may still qualify for ESG. A comprehensive medical evaluation is important to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Benefits of ESG
Potential benefits of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty may include:
- No external incisions or scars
- Minimally invasive approach
- Shorter recovery time
- Reduced postoperative discomfort
- Same-day discharge in many cases
- Significant weight loss
- Improvement in obesity-related conditions
Studies show many patients lose approximately 15–20% of their total body weight within the first 12–24 months after ESG when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.
Conditions That May Improve After Weight Loss
Successful weight loss following ESG may help improve:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnea
- Fatty liver disease
- Joint pain
- GERD symptoms
- High cholesterol
Long-term success depends on ongoing nutritional guidance, exercise, and behavioral changes following the procedure.
Recovery After ESG
Most patients experience temporary symptoms such as nausea, cramping, fatigue, or mild abdominal discomfort during the first few days after the procedure. These symptoms usually improve within the first week.
Patients generally follow a staged dietary progression after ESG, beginning with liquids and gradually advancing to soft foods and regular meals over several weeks. Close follow-up with the medical team is important to support long-term success.
ESG vs. Traditional Bariatric Surgery
ESG offers a less invasive alternative to procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass. Unlike surgical bariatric procedures:
- ESG does not remove part of the stomach
- No abdominal incisions are required
- Recovery is often faster
- Hospital stays are shorter
- The procedure may be reversible in selected cases
However, traditional bariatric surgery may provide greater long-term weight loss in some patients. Individual treatment recommendations depend on BMI, medical history, weight loss goals, and obesity-related conditions.
Advanced Endoscopic & Bariatric Care
Chicago Metabolic & Digestive Surgery Center is led by Dr. Jihad Kudsi, a nationally recognized surgeon specializing in minimally invasive, robotic, bariatric, and foregut surgery. Dr. Kudsi provides individualized treatment plans using advanced surgical and endoscopic techniques designed to support long-term weight loss and improved metabolic health.
The practice offers comprehensive obesity and weight loss care for patients throughout Chicago, Hinsdale, Oak Brook, and surrounding communities.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are considering a minimally invasive weight loss procedure and would like to learn whether Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty may be appropriate for you, contact Chicago Metabolic & Digestive Surgery Center to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jihad Kudsi.
For in-depth information please visit Dr. Kudsi’s website: Learn More About No-Incision Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)
