What is gastric botox?
Gastric botox is a non-surgical weight loss method where botulinum toxin (botox) is injected into the stomach muscles to slow down stomach movements, allowing the patient to feel full for a longer time and eat less. This procedure is performed via endoscopy and takes about 15-20 minutes. It does not require hospitalization.
Who are suitable candidates for gastric botox?
Gastric botox is generally ideal for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 40 who are not suitable for or do not prefer surgical methods. This procedure is applied to support overweight individuals in the process of adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle changes.
How is gastric botox performed?
The gastric botox procedure is performed with the patient under light sedation, using an endoscope guided from the mouth to the stomach. A thin needle at the tip of the endoscope is used to inject botox into specific muscle areas of the stomach. These injections increase the feeling of fullness by delaying the stomach’s emptying time.
How long does the procedure take and is hospitalization required?
The gastric botox procedure is typically completed within 15 to 20 minutes. Since it is not a surgical procedure, hospitalization is not necessary. Patients can leave the clinic a short time after the procedure and return to their daily lives.
Is the procedure painful?
During the gastric botox procedure, patients do not feel any pain or discomfort as they are under light sedation. No severe pain is expected after the procedure either. Most patients report feeling no side effects or a slight feeling of bloating.
When does it start to take effect and how long does the effect last?
The effect of the gastric botox application usually begins to be seen within 3-4 days, and the full effect appears within 1-2 weeks. The effect of the procedure lasts for an average of 4 to 6 months. After this period, the effect of botox completely wears off, and the stomach returns to its old function.
How much weight can be lost?
The amount of weight that can be lost with gastric botox varies from person to person. When supported by a healthy diet and regular exercise after the procedure, patients can lose 15-20 kilos or more. This procedure is not a magic solution and gives the best results when combined with lifestyle changes.
What should be considered after the procedure?
It is important to avoid fatty, spicy, and acidic foods for the first few days after the procedure. Light foods that will not irritate the stomach should be preferred. Adhering to the diet program recommended by your doctor and drinking plenty of water supports the recovery process.
What are the side effects of gastric botox?
There are no known serious side effects of gastric botox. The most common side effects may be mild nausea, bloating, and indigestion. These side effects are usually short-lived and resolve on their own. Since it is not a surgical procedure, the risks are quite low.
Can the procedure be repeated?
Yes, the gastric botox procedure can be repeated after its effect wears off. It is generally recommended to do it again 6 months after the first procedure. However, a doctor’s evaluation and approval must be obtained before each repetition.
Is gastric botox permanent?
No, gastric botox is not a permanent weight loss method. Its effect is temporary, and the effect of botox completely disappears after 4 to 6 months. This provides an opportunity for the patient to adopt healthy eating habits.
How should nutrition be after the procedure?
Immediately after the procedure, one starts with liquid foods, slowly moves to pureed foods, and then to a normal diet. Adhering to a special nutrition plan prepared by a dietitian is critical to increasing weight loss success.
Does gastric botox guarantee weight loss?
Gastric botox alone does not guarantee weight loss. The success of weight loss depends on the patient’s eating and exercise habits after the procedure. Botox only facilitates the process by increasing the feeling of fullness.
Who is gastric botox not applied to?
It is not suitable for individuals with serious stomach ailments (ulcers, gastritis), neuromuscular diseases (myasthenia gravis), those allergic to botox, or pregnant/breastfeeding women. In such cases, a detailed doctor’s examination is required before the procedure.
What is the difference between gastric botox and a gastric balloon?
While gastric botox works by paralyzing the stomach muscles, a gastric balloon is a device placed inside the stomach that occupies volume and provides a feeling of fullness. Botox is an easier procedure, whereas the balloon must be removed. The effect of botox lasts for 4-6 months, while the balloon can stay for 6-12 months.
What is the preparation process before the procedure?
It is necessary to stop eating and drinking water 8 hours before the procedure. Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided. The doctor may recommend stopping the use of blood-thinning medications for a while beforehand.
How should medication use be after the procedure?
Other than the medications recommended by your doctor, you should consult your doctor about medication use after the procedure. Special care should be taken with resuming blood-thinning medications.
Does gastric botox require dietitian support?
Yes, getting support from a dietitian after the gastric botox procedure is critical to maximizing weight loss success. A dietitian facilitates the process by creating a personalized nutrition plan.
Does gastric botox slow down metabolism?
No, gastric botox does not directly slow down metabolism. It slows down the movement of the stomach muscles, which extends the feeling of fullness. This leads to less calorie intake and, indirectly, weight loss.
Can one do sports after the procedure?
One can start with activities like light walks immediately after the procedure. For intense and heavy exercises, it is recommended to get your doctor’s approval. Regular exercise is important for the permanence of the weight loss process.
How are gastric botox prices determined?
Prices may vary depending on the botox brand used, the clinic where it is applied, the doctor’s experience, and the city where the procedure is performed. It will be useful to get price quotes from a few clinics for clear information on this matter.
Do insurance companies cover gastric botox?
Generally, insurance companies do not cover the gastric botox procedure as they consider it an aesthetic procedure. However, the best thing to do is to contact your own insurance company for clear information on this matter.
Is gastric botox really safe?
Yes, gastric botox is a very safe procedure when performed by expert doctors and under appropriate clinical conditions. Since the effect of botox is limited, there is no risk of permanent side effects.
Can alcohol be consumed after the procedure?
It is recommended to stay away from alcohol for the first few days after the procedure. Alcohol can irritate the stomach and increase stomach sensitivity after the procedure. Alcohol consumption can be resumed later with your doctor’s approval.
Is gastric botox an alternative to obesity surgery?
Gastric botox is not an alternative to obesity surgery. It is generally considered an interim solution for individuals who are not suitable for surgical operations or who have less weight to lose. In cases of severe obesity, surgical operations offer a more effective solution.
