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If lifestyle changes are not effective for weight loss, non-surgical procedures may be available. The two most popular treatments discussed are gastric balloons and endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG). These two procedures are done without traditional surgical incisions, but they don’t operate in the same manner.
When looking for a gastric balloon vs. ESG, one frequently asked question is their longevity. Also, people ask: Gastric Balloon vs ESG: Which Non-Surgical Option Lasts Longer? There are a number of factors that will help determine the answer, including how each treatment will impact you and what will occur following the procedure.
What Is a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon is a short-term weight loss procedure. A deflated balloon is inserted into the stomach using a scope called an endoscope during the procedure. It is then inflated, filling up the stomach.
The balloon will occupy some of your stomach, and you may feel full from eating smaller amounts. This can help you with portion control while you’re in the process of making healthier food choices. Gastric balloons are intended to be removed after a certain time. This indicates that the actual impact of the balloon is only temporary.
What Is ESG?
Another procedure that uses an endoscope is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG). The doctor does not put a balloon in the stomach; rather, he uses a special suturing device that reduces the size of the stomach.
The stomach is refashioned into a smaller, sleeve-like structure. This can decrease its food volume and may also delay emptying of the stomach, which can aid patients in feeling full for a longer period.
ESG is not just a stomach balloon that needs to be removed after a few months, as is the case with a gastric balloon. The sutures will stay in place, but the stomach may alter over time, and some patients may need additional treatment.
Gastric Balloon vs ESG: Which Lasts Longer?
When it comes to the actual procedure, ESG tends to last longer than gastric balloon procedures. The gastric balloon has to be removed after its recommended treatment period. When removed, the physical space-occupying effect of the balloon is removed.
In the case of ESG, the stomach is altered in shape and capacity through sutures. This is not to say that ESG promises to help people lose weight forever, though. Weight loss after treatment will largely depend on diet, exercise, follow-up, and other factors.
Why Lifestyle Changes Still Matter?
Both the gastric balloon and ESG do not replace healthy lifestyle choices. However, patients still need to make lifestyle changes, including nutritional and exercise management and long-term lifestyle changes.
This is particularly significant as weight gain may occur after all types of weight loss interventions. Mayo Clinic stresses permanent healthy diet and exercise changes for long-term success with ESG. However, how long the procedure takes is not the only consideration.
Which Option May Be Suitable for You?
The best option for you will depend on your BMI, health history, weight-loss objectives, past weight management experiences, and medical requirements.
Another alternative is a gastric balloon, which might be a desirable option for a person seeking a temporary solution. Individuals seeking a more durable, anatomy-sparing endoscopic therapy may want to consider ESG.
Dr. Tanseer Asghar, a general surgeon, laparoscopic surgeon, and bariatric surgeon at Slimthetics, will have the opportunity to discuss these options with the patient. He can evaluate your situation and discuss the procedure that could be suitable for your case.
Cost of Gastric Balloon and ESG
The cost of gastric balloon and ESG in Pakistan starts from PKR 250,000 to PKR 600,000. It can vary depending on the procedure and individual treatment requirements. At Slimthetics, the price may depend on:
- Type of procedure selected
- Gastric Balloon or ESG Technique
- Anesthesia and hospital charges
- Surgeon’s expertise
- Pre-procedure assessments
- Follow-up and aftercare
- Additional medical requirements
Dr. Tanseer Asghar can assess your case and provide an accurate treatment plan and cost estimate during a consultation.
Final Thoughts
Gastric Balloon vs ESG: Which Non-Surgical Option Lasts Longer? The number of weeks of duration is the most important distinction between gastric balloon and ESG: A gastric balloon is only intended to be a short-term intervention, and ESG is designed to change stomach structure over a longer period of time.
Both procedures do not guarantee permanent weight loss, however. Long-term results depend on ongoing lifestyle changes and medical follow-up.
For those who are thinking of undergoing a non-surgical weight loss procedure, make an appointment with Dr. Tanseer Asghar from Slimthetics to learn about the options and decide which one might be suitable for you.
