Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) reduces your stomach size by 70-80% without any incisions or surgery. Performed through the mouth using an endoscope, ESG offers meaningful weight loss with faster recovery and lower risk than traditional bariatric surgery. At Lighter Dream in Tijuana, ESG is ideal for patients with BMI 27-40 who want weight loss without surgery.
How ESG Works
A flexible endoscope is inserted through the mouth (no external incisions). Using a suturing device, the surgeon places internal sutures that gather and reduce the stomach, creating a smaller, tube-like shape similar to a gastric sleeve — but without removing any stomach tissue.
- Procedure time: 30-45 minutes
- Anesthesia: Light sedation (not general anesthesia)
- Hospital stay: Same-day discharge in most cases
- Recovery: Return to normal activities within 3-5 days
- Incisions: Zero — completely incisionless
ESG vs Gastric Sleeve Comparison
| Factor | ESG | Gastric Sleeve |
|---|---|---|
| How It Works | Internal sutures (no cutting) | Removes 75-80% of stomach |
| Weight Loss | 15-20% total body weight | 25-35% total body weight |
| Excess Weight Loss | 40-50% | 60-70% |
| Surgery Time | 30-45 minutes | 45-60 minutes |
| Recovery | 3-5 days | 2-3 weeks |
| Incisions | None | 4-5 small incisions |
| Reversible? | Yes (sutures can be removed) | No |
| Best For | BMI 27-40 | BMI 30-50 |
Who Is a Good Candidate for ESG?
- BMI 27-40 (overweight to moderately obese)
- Want to lose 30-60 pounds
- Not ready for or don’t qualify for traditional surgery
- Want minimal downtime (can’t take 2-3 weeks off work)
- Prefer a reversible, non-surgical approach
- Have tried diet and exercise without lasting success
When Is Gastric Sleeve a Better Choice?
If you need to lose more than 60 pounds, have BMI over 40, or have serious obesity-related conditions, gastric sleeve surgery ($3,898) may be more appropriate. The sleeve produces greater weight loss and has stronger data for diabetes and blood pressure improvement.
Not sure which is right? Our surgeons help you decide during a free consultation.
ESG Results
- Average weight loss: 15-20% of total body weight (40-50% of excess weight)
- Month 3: 10-15% body weight lost
- Month 12: 15-20% body weight lost
- Health improvements: Blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol often improve significantly
See patient results and 220+ reviews.
According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), bariatric surgery is one of the most effective treatments for severe obesity and its related health conditions.
Who Should Consider Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty fills an important gap between diet/exercise and traditional bariatric surgery. Patients who are ideal candidates for endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty typically have BMI 27-40, want to lose 30-60 pounds, and prefer a non-surgical approach with minimal downtime.
Unlike traditional surgery, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty allows you to return to normal activities within 3-5 days. The procedure is also reversible — the internal sutures can be removed if needed, making endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty an appealing option for patients who are not ready for permanent surgical changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ESG painful?
ESG is performed under light sedation — you won’t feel anything during the procedure. After, mild discomfort and nausea for 1-2 days is common, manageable with medication.
Can ESG be converted to gastric sleeve later?
Yes. If you need more weight loss after ESG, conversion to gastric sleeve is possible.
How long do ESG results last?
ESG results are maintained long-term when combined with healthy eating and exercise. The internal sutures create permanent restriction, though some stretching can occur over years.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Book a free consultation with our expert bariatric surgeons in Tijuana, Mexico.
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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Individual results may vary. Consult with our surgeons for personalized medical advice.
