Stomach botox is a very simple endoscopic weight loss procedure, that is especially suitable for patients who can’t lose with dieting. It’s performed under sedation and takes between 15-20 minutes. Patient can be discharged around 30 minutes after the procedure. It can be effective for patients with a BMI value between 30-40, and can be performed as a preparation precodure before a morbid obesity surgery (such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric by-pass)
Following a 12 hours fasting before the procedure, botulinum toxin (same botox used for facial procedures, but with higher volume) is injected into stomach muscles with the use of an endoscope. This slows down the digestion process and ghrelin release (the hormone that stimulates appetite). This way patient feels fullness for a longer time after the meals and feels less hungry.
Effects of the botox injection lasts around 4-6 months and can help patient to lose up to 20 kg.
The weight loss will also help reduce risks of weight-related health problems such as;
-type 2 diabetes
-sleep apnea
-heart disease or stroke
-nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
-nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
-high blood pressure
-gastroesophageal reflux disease
Just like any other weight loss procedure, stomach botox does not guarantee the weight loss and its results aren’t permanent. Patient needs to follow a proper dietary program and excercise even after the effects of the botox faded in order to not put on weight again. This procedure will also have very reduced effect with the patients who consume small foods with high calorie.