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Our experts provide nonsurgical treatments for long-term weight loss.
Telehealth appointments are available.
If you are struggling to lose weight through dietary changes and exercise alone, our weight-loss experts can help. As part of the USC Obesity Center, the USC Bariatric Endoscopy Program offers innovative, nonsurgical therapies, coordinated care and strong outcomes to help you achieve lasting weight loss and reach your health goals.
We specialize in advanced, minimally invasive treatments for patients who either do not qualify for bariatric surgery, prefer a nonsurgical option or need revisional support. Because these treatments are nonsurgical, they can often be same-day procedures, with no scarring and minimal recovery time compared to conventional surgery. Procedures are performed using an endoscope, which is a thin, flexible tube that is usually inserted through the mouth.
Our bariatric endoscopists are highly experienced in the following endoscopic weight-loss procedures:
Before Your Endoscopic Weight-Loss Procedure
The first step is an initial consultation with one of our bariatric endoscopists who can explain and answer any questions you may have about the procedure.
Next, one of our dietitians will meet with you to discuss a pre- and post-procedure nutrition plan.
Following that, one of our lifestyle medicine providers will discuss strategies to help you meet your weight-loss goals in the long-term.
After Your Endoscopic Weight-Loss Procedure
After your endoscopic weight-loss procedure, our bariatric team will meet with you frequently to track your progress:
What is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG)?
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty works to decrease the stomach in size by 70%-80% using sutures (stiches). ESG helps patients feel fuller faster and eat smaller portions.
It is minimally invasive. The procedure is completed using an endoscope with a suturing device attached at the end, which is passed from the mouth into the stomach.
It is effective: On average, patients can experience 15%-20% total body weight loss in one year.
Who is a candidate for ESG?
Anyone with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or higher than 27 with one or more obesity-related comorbidities.
What is the difference between ESG and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (bariatric surgery)?
ESG reduces the size of the stomach by placing several sutures inside the stomach. At the end of the procedure, the stomach has a tube-like “sleeve” appearance. Unlike laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, it does not remove part of the stomach, nor does it involve any surgical incisions or leave any scars.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure takes approximately 60-90 minutes.
What is the recovery process like after the procedure?
ESG is an outpatient procedure, and people usually go home the same day. Most people can return to routine daily activities in 2-3 days.
What are side effects of the procedure?
The most common side effects are abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and constipation. These symptoms can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications, and they normally resolve in 2-4 weeks.
Will I need to follow a special diet after my procedure?
After the procedure, the stomach will need to heal, and a strict diet will need to be followed. It starts with a liquid diet, with gradual transition to soft foods and then solid food.
How do I make an appointment if I would like to speak with a provider to discuss ESG?
To make an appointment, call (323) 865-0622.
What are the options for endoscopic revision of a prior bariatric surgery?
Minimally invasive endoscopic treatments are available if you have regained weight after previously undergoing bariatric surgery. These endoscopic procedures can help you feel fuller for longer and help you resume your weight loss.
One endoscopic option is transoral outlet reduction (TORe), which uses sutures (stitches) to reduce the size of your stomach. Another endoscopic option is a sleeve-in-sleeve (SIS) procedure, which uses sutures to tighten the surgical sleeve.
Who is a candidate for endoscopic revision of prior bariatric surgery?
Patients are typically required to stay in the hospital for one night and then go home the next day. Most people can return to routine daily activities in 2-3 days.
What are the side effects of the procedure?
After the procedure, the stomach will need to heal, and a strict diet will need to be followed. It starts with a liquid diet, with gradual transition to soft foods and then solid food
How do I make an appointment if I would like to speak to a provider to discuss endoscopic revision of prior bariatric surgery?
The USC Bariatric Endoscopy Program has one of the highest volumes of patients on the West Coast and the highest success rates for long-term weight loss.
As part of the academic medical system of Keck Medicine of USC, our bariatric endoscopists are at the forefront of innovative endoscopic treatments for weight loss.
Our patient-centered approach to care means that all aspects of your treatment and care will be managed by one team.
We have an expert team to navigate insurance coverage and have highly competitive payment options.
Connect with a Keck Medicine of USC doctor and other providers for your personalized care.
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