Which weight loss treatment is more successful?
When it comes to bariatric surgery, gastric sleeve and gastric balloon have become popular methods for achieving weight loss goals. But now, there is another option that is becoming increasingly attractive to many people: gastric botox.
Gastric botox is an injection of botulinum toxin which is injected into the stomach wall. The botox relaxes the muscles, which in turn decreases the amount of food that can be consumed at once. It is a minimally invasive procedure and can be done in 30 minutes or less. The effects of gastric botox should last at least six months or longer.
The main difference between gastric sleeve and gastric balloon is that gastric botox is reversible and non-surgical. Whereas gastric sleeve and gastric balloon are permanent forms of treatment, gastric botox can be reversed with an additional injection if needed. This makes it attractive to those who may wish to see weight loss results but are not ready to commit to a more permanent form of treatment.
In terms of weight loss results, gastric sleeve and gastric balloon generally have more sustained and significant results than gastric botox. Gastric botox can help to reduce appetite and limit portions, but is not as reliable for long-term weight loss. On average, people can expect to lose approximately 10-15% of their excess body weight after a gastric botox treatment.
The potential risks and side effects of gastric botox also need to be considered when making the choice between gastric sleeve and gastric balloon versus gastric botox. These include but are not limited to: nausea, headaches, abdominal pain and discomfort, and dehydration. It is also important to note that gastric botox is not Health Canada approved, so those seeking the treatment may experience difficulty in finding a clinic offering it in Canada.
In conclusion, gastric sleeve and gastric balloon are the two most commonly used bariatric procedures for weight loss; however, gastric botox offers a more reserved option for those not ready to commit to a more permanent form of treatment. Its potential for weight loss is not as significant as other treatments, but its non-surgical and reversible nature may be attractive to those wanting to achieve some weight loss without the same level of commitment. Ultimately, the decision should be made after careful consideration of both the potential benefits and risks and a consultation with a physician.