Choosing between ESG vs. gastric balloon depends on how you want to reduce your stomach’s capacity. ESG uses internal sutures to reshape your stomach, while a gastric balloon takes up space inside. Both are done with an endoscope through your mouth so that you won’t need any abdominal incisions.
At Bariatric Guru, we look at both types of non-surgical weight loss in Los Angeles based on your health history, goals, and what you’ll need for follow-up.
How Do ESG and a Gastric Balloon Work?
With endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, an endoscopic suturing device folds and secures your stomach from the inside. This smaller stomach helps you feel full sooner. According to Mayo Clinic, ESG doesn’t require any abdominal cuts and isn’t meant to be a temporary solution.
A gastric balloon procedure places a balloon inside your stomach to take up space. The balloon stays in for a set period, then it’s removed.
What Are the Biggest Differences?
Both are endoscopic weight loss options, but they’re different in how they work, how long they last, and what you’ll need for follow-up:
- Stomach change: ESG uses internal sutures to make your stomach smaller. A balloon takes up space without changing your stomach’s shape.
- Duration: ESG is designed to be a lasting change. A gastric balloon is temporary and needs to be removed after the approved time.
- Aftercare: Both options mean you’ll need to make changes to your diet, come in for follow-up visits, and keep up with new eating habits.
- Screening: Your medical history and digestive health help decide if either procedure is right for you.
NIDDK explains that intragastric balloons are temporary tools used along with changes in eating and activity. You might like the balloon because it’s removable. ESG could be a better fit if you want a longer-lasting way to reduce your stomach size.
Is ESG or a Gastric Balloon Better for You?
Neither option works for everyone. ESG could be right if you want an incisionless weight loss procedure that changes your stomach’s shape without removing tissue. A gastric balloon might be better if you’d rather have a temporary device and are comfortable with removal as part of the process.
When you’re considering these options, it’s important to look at your past stomach procedures, reflux, hiatal hernia, bleeding risks, medications, and whether you can stick with a nutrition program.
Why Compare Both Options With Bariatric Guru?
Since we offer both procedures at our Los Angeles practice, we can help you compare each one based on your medical needs and what you’re looking for in treatment. Dr. Sepehr Lalezari, our founder and Chief Medical Officer, completed fellowship training in bariatric and minimally invasive surgery at Johns Hopkins Medicine.
He’ll review your history and goals before recommending care. Our endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty in Los Angeles service gives you an endoscopic option that doesn’t remove any stomach tissue if you’re eligible.
FAQ About ESG vs. Gastric Balloon
Does ESG remove part of the stomach?
No. ESG uses internal sutures to reduce stomach volume without removing tissue.
Does a gastric balloon stay in permanently?
No. Removal is part of the treatment plan after the approved placement period.
Do these procedures work without lifestyle changes?
Your results still depend on your nutrition, activity, and follow-up care. Neither procedure can take the place of the habits you’ll need for long-term weight management.
Discuss Endoscopic Weight Loss Options in Los Angeles
If you’re weighing ESG vs. gastric balloon, schedule a consultation with Bariatric Guru in Los Angeles. Dr. Lalezari will walk you through the differences, review your medical needs, and help you find a treatment plan that fits your goals.
