What is Gastric Botox and How Does It Work?
Gastric Botox is a non-surgical, endoscopic procedure. In this process, botulinum toxin injected into the stomach muscles slows down stomach movements and allows food to remain in the stomach for a longer period. This way, individuals feel full for a longer time with a smaller amount of food. This procedure helps with weight loss by controlling appetite and reducing the desire to snack between meals. Gastric Botox typically takes about 20 minutes and does not require general anesthesia, but is performed under light sedation. This makes the operation a method that carries less risk and can be applied more quickly.
Who is Gastric Botox Suitable For?
Gastric Botox is an ideal option for individuals who do not want to undergo surgical operations or are not suitable for surgery, and who have an excess weight of between 10-20 kilograms. The most effective results are obtained for patients with a body mass index (BMI) between 27 and 35. People who do not meet the requirements for obesity surgery but want to lose weight in a healthy way can resort to this method. This procedure yields the best results when supported by a healthy diet and exercise. For individuals with stomach ailments such as stomach ulcers, gastritis, or severe acid reflux, these conditions may need to be treated first.
How Safe is the Gastric Botox Procedure?
Gastric Botox is a very safe procedure when performed by an experienced gastroenterologist or general surgeon, similar to a gastric endoscopy. The Botox does not affect muscles and nerves outside the digestive system. It does not cause permanent damage to the body, and since there is no surgical incision, the risk of infection is minimal. However, as with any medical procedure, very rare side effects such as allergic reactions or mild stomach discomfort can occur. These side effects are usually short-lived and disappear quickly.
When Do the Effects of the Procedure Begin and How Long Do They Last?
The effects of the Gastric Botox procedure usually begin to be felt within 3-4 days, and the full effect appears within 2 weeks. The increased feeling of fullness and decreased appetite are the most prominent effects of this process. The effect of the procedure, although it varies depending on the amount of Botox used and the patient’s metabolism, lasts for an average of 4 to 6 months. At the end of this period, the effect of Botox slowly wears off, and the patient can repeat the procedure if desired. For permanent weight loss, it is recommended that the patient use this period to develop healthy habits.
Why is the Cost of Gastric Botox More Affordable in Turkey?
Turkey stands out in health tourism with the high-standard services and affordable prices it offers. The main reasons why Gastric Botox costs are lower compared to Western countries are the lower cost of living, the advantage of exchange rates, and intense competition in the healthcare sector. These factors allow clinics to offer more competitive prices without compromising on service quality. This creates an economic and attractive option for patients coming from abroad.
In What Environment is the Gastric Botox Procedure Performed?
The Gastric Botox procedure is usually performed in the endoscopy unit of a hospital or a fully-equipped clinic. Before the procedure, the patient is relaxed by an anesthesiologist with light sedation. This way, the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. The procedure is performed in a sterile environment using an endoscope device. Since this procedure does not involve a surgical incision, it does not require a hospital stay, and the patient can return home immediately after the procedure.
What is the Mechanism of Gastric Botox for Weight Loss?
Gastric Botox works by temporarily reducing the ability of the stomach muscles to contract. This allows food in the stomach to pass into the duodenum more slowly than normal. This slowing down causes the stomach to remain full for a longer time and stimulates the secretion of satiety hormones for a longer period. As a result, individuals feel full more quickly, eat less, and their feelings of hunger decrease. This naturally restricts calorie intake and supports weight loss.
How Much Weight Can Be Lost with Gastric Botox?
The amount of weight that can be lost with Gastric Botox varies depending on the patient’s starting weight, lifestyle, and eating habits. Patients are generally expected to lose between 10 and 20 kilograms. However, this procedure is not a standalone solution. The most important key to success is for the patient to adhere to a special diet program applied after the procedure and to exercise regularly. In this way, the effect of Botox can be maximized and permanent results can be obtained.
Is the Gastric Botox Procedure Painful?
The Gastric Botox procedure is painless. Since the procedure is performed under light sedation, the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort. There is usually no pain felt after the procedure either. Some patients may experience mild bloating or nausea after the procedure, but these conditions are usually temporary and disappear quickly. The patient can quickly return to their normal activities after the procedure.
What is the Difference Between Gastric Botox and Obesity Surgery?
Gastric Botox is a non-surgical and reversible method. It does not create a permanent change in stomach volume, it only slows down the movement of the stomach muscles. Obesity surgeries (e.g., sleeve gastrectomy, bypass), on the other hand, are surgical operations that make permanent changes in the stomach volume and provide more significant weight loss. Gastric Botox is generally considered an intermediate solution for people who are not suitable for obesity surgery or have a milder weight problem.
Can the Gastric Botox Procedure Be Repeated?
Yes, the Gastric Botox procedure can be repeated. Since the effect of Botox usually lasts for 4 to 6 months, the patient can have the procedure repeated at the end of this period if they want to continue the weight loss process. There are no health obstacles to repeating the procedure. However, before each new procedure, the patient’s general health status is re-evaluated, and a new plan is made.
How Do I Find a Suitable Hospital or Clinic for Gastric Botox?
When choosing a suitable hospital or clinic for Gastric Botox in Turkey, you should first research the clinic’s references and the doctor’s experience. The number of years the doctor has been working in this field, the number of patients on whom they have performed this procedure, and patient reviews are important. Additionally, the suitability of the hospital or clinic for international standards and sterilization conditions should also be considered.
What Should Nutrition Be Like After Gastric Botox?
After Gastric Botox, it is recommended to avoid solid foods for the first few hours and to consume only liquid foods. A special diet program prepared by a dietitian is then followed. In this program, priority is given to protein-rich, low-fat, and healthy foods. Avoiding fast food, carbonated drinks, and sugary foods is critical for the success of the procedure. Adopting regular and balanced eating habits guarantees long-term success.
What is the Recovery Process Like After the Procedure?
The recovery process after Gastric Botox is very fast and comfortable. The patient can get up and continue their daily activities immediately after the procedure. They can usually return to work within a day. A mild feeling of fatigue or nausea may be experienced for the first few days, but these conditions disappear quickly. It is recommended to avoid heavy sports activities for a while after the procedure.
What Do Gastric Botox Prices Include?
Gastric Botox package prices in Turkey generally include not only the cost of the procedure but also some additional services. These services may include a pre-operative examination, anesthesia fee, the cost of the Botox used, and the first post-operative check-ups. For patients coming from abroad, some packages may also offer additional services such as airport transfers and accommodation.
Does the Procedure Leave a Scar?
Since Gastric Botox is an endoscopic procedure, no incisions are made in the body, and therefore no scars are left. This is one of the biggest advantages of the procedure. Patients can go through the weight loss process without having any surgical scars on their appearance.
How Long Does the Gastric Botox Procedure Take?
The Gastric Botox procedure, including preparation, usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes. This short duration allows the patient to be discharged quickly after the procedure. The procedure is performed quickly and effectively by an experienced doctor.
What are the Side Effects of Gastric Botox?
Gastric Botox has no known serious side effects. The most common side effects are mild nausea, bloating, and indigestion that can occur within a few days after the procedure. These side effects are usually temporary and go away on their own. In very rare cases, allergic reactions can be seen. It is important to contact a doctor in case of any side effects.
Does Smoking and Alcohol Use Affect the Procedure?
Yes, smoking and alcohol use can negatively affect the success of the Gastric Botox procedure. Smoking can slow down wound healing and damage stomach health. Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of post-operative complications. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid smoking and alcohol use before and after the procedure.
Which Exercises Should Be Done After Gastric Botox?
During the recovery process after Gastric Botox, non-strenuous exercises like light walks can be done for the first few days. More intense exercises can be started 1-2 weeks after the procedure. Regular exercise speeds up the weight loss process, revitalizes the metabolism, and helps maintain muscle mass. Cardio exercises such as walking, swimming, and cycling are ideal.
What are the Advantages of the Gastric Botox Procedure?
The most important advantages of Gastric Botox include it being non-surgical, having minimal anesthesia risk, a short duration, and a quick recovery process. Additionally, since no permanent change is made in stomach volume, it is a reversible method. This procedure offers a healthy weight loss opportunity for individuals who are not suitable for obesity surgery or have a milder weight problem.
What Should Be Done Before Gastric Botox?
Before getting Gastric Botox, you should have a comprehensive pre-operative consultation with your doctor. In this consultation, you should share your medical history, allergies, and medications you use in detail. Necessary tests such as blood tests and endoscopy are performed before the procedure. You should quit smoking and alcohol use and start a healthy diet in accordance with your doctor’s recommendations.
How is the Gastric Botox Procedure Performed?
The Gastric Botox procedure is performed using an endoscope. The endoscope is advanced from the patient’s mouth to the stomach. The inner surface of the stomach is examined, and then the Botox is injected into specific muscle areas of the stomach with the help of a special needle. The procedure is performed carefully without damaging the stomach and takes an average of 20 minutes. This allows the patient to be discharged quickly.
What is the Diet Program Applied with Gastric Botox?
After Gastric Botox, a special nutrition program prepared by a dietitian is applied to the patient. This program starts with liquid foods and slowly transitions to pureed foods, and then to solid foods. The purpose of the diet is to both support weight loss and help the stomach adapt to its new condition. A diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals also speeds up the recovery process.
How Can the Permanence of Gastric Botox Be Increased?
To increase the permanence of the Gastric Botox procedure, the patient must stick to lifestyle changes. By using the advantage of the feeling of fullness provided by Botox, the patient should develop regular eating habits and exercise. Sticking to a healthy diet program and increasing physical activity helps maintain weight control even after the effect of Botox wears off.
Which Botox Brand is Used for Gastric Botox?
In the Gastric Botox procedure, FDA-approved botulinum toxin products with the same active ingredient as the Botox used in aesthetic applications are used. Your doctor determines the most suitable Botox brand and dosage based on the patient’s condition. The quality and reliability of these products are an important factor for the success of the procedure.
What are the Post-Procedure Complications?
Since Gastric Botox is a non-surgical procedure, the risk of serious complications is very low. Possible complications include mild throat irritation due to endoscopy, bloating, or rarely allergic reactions. However, these conditions are usually temporary and disappear on their own. Following the doctor’s recommendations before and after the procedure minimizes the risk of complications.
How Does the Stomach Heal After Gastric Botox?
The stomach heals very quickly after Gastric Botox. There is no permanent damage to the injection sites. After the effect of Botox wears off, the stomach muscles return to their original state. This shows that the procedure is a reversible and safe method. Patients do not feel any discomfort during the recovery process.
Can I Get Behind the Wheel After Gastric Botox?
Since the Gastric Botox procedure is performed under light sedation, it is not safe to drive a car after the procedure. Therefore, it is recommended that the patient be accompanied by a relative or use a taxi to return home. After the effect of the sedation wears off completely, the patient can return to their normal daily activities.
What is the Difference Between Gastric Botox and Facial Botox?
Although Gastric Botox and facial Botox use the same main ingredient, botulinum toxin, their application purposes and mechanisms of action are different. Facial Botox relaxes muscles to reduce wrinkles. Gastric Botox, on the other hand, slows down the movement of the stomach muscles to delay digestion and helps with weight loss. Both procedures are reversible and do not cause permanent damage to the muscles.
Who is Gastric Botox Not Applied to?
Gastric Botox is not applied to people who are allergic to botulinum toxin, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with stomach ailments such as stomach ulcers or severe gastritis. Additionally, it is not a suitable method for obese patients with a very high BMI (40 and above), as these individuals need a more powerful and permanent weight loss method.
What is the Possibility of Gaining Weight Back After Gastric Botox?
The possibility of gaining weight back after Gastric Botox depends on the patient’s lifestyle after the procedure. If the patient returns to unhealthy eating habits after the procedure, weight gain becomes inevitable after the effect of Botox wears off. However, patients who use the advantage provided by Gastric Botox to make healthy eating and exercise a lifestyle can achieve permanent results.
Can Body Contouring Be Done with Gastric Botox?
Gastric Botox aims to provide general weight loss and does not directly contour specific areas of the body. However, the weight loss achieved as a result of the procedure leads to a significant slimming and a more aesthetic appearance in the general body lines. Additional methods such as liposuction may be needed to remove localized fat deposits.
Does the Stomach Shrink After Gastric Botox?
Gastric Botox does not shrink the volume of the stomach or make a permanent change in the stomach’s anatomy. Botox only temporarily slows down the contraction of the stomach muscles. The Botox injected into the stomach wall delays digestion, extending the feeling of fullness. The stomach functions return to normal after the effect of Botox wears off.
What is the Difference Between Gastric Botox and Liposuction?
Gastric Botox and liposuction are two procedures that serve completely different purposes. Gastric Botox aims for weight loss by providing appetite control. Liposuction, on the other hand, aims to surgically remove stubborn fat deposits in specific body areas. Gastric Botox is a tool for general weight loss, while liposuction is a body contouring method.
Is Vitamin Supplementation Needed After Gastric Botox?
Since Gastric Botox does not affect nutrient absorption, it generally does not require vitamin or mineral supplementation. However, it is important to continue to eat a balanced diet during the weight loss process. Your dietitian may recommend specific vitamin or mineral supplements depending on your nutrition program.
What is the Success Rate of the Gastric Botox Procedure?
The success rate of the Gastric Botox procedure is directly dependent on the patient’s adaptation to lifestyle changes. Patients who follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly usually achieve the expected weight loss. The procedure itself is a very effective tool for appetite control, but the ultimate success depends on the patient’s effort.
How Do I Come from Abroad for the Gastric Botox Procedure?
The process for patients coming from abroad usually begins with an online consultation. The clinic evaluates the patient’s medical history and expectations. Then, a travel plan is made, and assistance is provided with plane tickets and accommodation. When the patient arrives in Turkey, their transfers are arranged, and the procedures are performed quickly.
Is the Gastric Botox Procedure Applied Only for Weight Loss?
Gastric Botox is primarily applied for weight loss, but this process can also help patients control weight-related health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol. Therefore, the benefits of the procedure are not only aesthetic but also for general health.
How Do Shopping Habits Change After Gastric Botox?
Gastric Botox changes the patient’s eating habits by increasing the feeling of fullness and reducing appetite. This leads to the patient taking in less food and preferring healthier foods. As a result, patients’ grocery shopping lists change, and they start buying healthier products.
Is There an Age Limit for the Gastric Botox Procedure?
Gastric Botox is generally applied to individuals aged 18 and older. The important thing is that the patient has good general health and realistic expectations. The procedure can also be safely applied to elderly patients if their general health condition is suitable.
