Apollo Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG): A Revolutionary Non-Surgical Weight Loss Procedure

A New Hope for Non-Surgical Obesity Treatment

The Apollo Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is an innovative, non-surgical weight loss procedure that offers promising results for individuals with mild to moderate obesity. Unlike traditional bariatric surgeries, this method reduces stomach volume without incisions, making it a minimally invasive alternative for weight management.

Large-scale, multi-center studies have demonstrated long-term effectiveness, with research spanning from January 2013 to December 2015 in five different medical centers. All procedures were performed using the Apollo OverStitch endoscopic suturing system. The first ESG procedure in Turkey was successfully performed in 2014.

---

Study Results & Key Findings

• Total Patients: 248
• Average Age: 44.5 years
• Average BMI: 37.8
• 6-Month Weight Loss: 15.2% of total body weight
• 24-Month Weight Loss: 18.6% of total body weight
• Percentage of Patients Losing More Than 10% of Their Body Weight: 84.2%

At the 6-month mark, the observed weight loss was a strong predictor of long-term success. Only 5 cases (2%) reported serious side effects.

---

Not an Alternative to Surgery

While endoscopic procedures are highly effective, bariatric surgery remains the gold standard for treating severe obesity. Surgical interventions alter gastrointestinal anatomy, affecting neuroendocrine signals, gut motility, bile acid circulation, and gut microbiota, leading to more profound metabolic changes.

However, not all patients qualify for surgery due to eligibility criteria, cost, or personal preference. Endoscopic procedures like ESG bridge the gap between diet-based treatments and full-scale surgical interventions, providing a safer, lower-risk alternative.

---

Requires Advanced Endoscopic Expertise

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty is a highly technical procedure requiring specialized training. The technique involves inserting an endoscope through the mouth to place full-thickness sutures along the stomach’s greater curvature, reducing its volume and limiting food intake.

The procedure is FDA-approved and performed using the Apollo OverStitch suturing system. Unlike traditional gastric sleeve surgery, no part of the stomach is removed, and the procedure is completely reversible if needed.

---

Additional Metabolic Benefits Beyond Restriction

Beyond simple stomach volume reduction, ESG has been shown to induce metabolic improvements, including:

• Delayed gastric emptying, leading to prolonged satiety
• Improved insulin sensitivity, benefiting patients with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes
• Reduction in appetite, contributing to long-term weight loss success

These effects make ESG a powerful tool in non-surgical obesity treatment.

---

Study Details & Procedure Overview

A multi-center study conducted in Spain, the United States (Weill Cornell Medical College), and Mayo Clinic (Minnesota) evaluated the long-term efficacy of ESG.

• All procedures were performed under general anesthesia in endoscopy units
• Some patients were discharged on the same day, while others stayed for 24-hour observation
• Patients received oral antibiotics, anti-nausea medications, and stomach protectants
• Post-procedure diet:
  • 2-3 weeks of liquid-based diet (protein shakes)
  • 2 weeks of pureed foods
  • Gradual transition to solid foods
  • Daily intake of multivitamins & adequate hydration

Success Criteria:

• Patients who lost at least 10% of their total body weight within 24 months were considered successful.

Weight Loss Results:

• 6-Month Weight Loss: 15.4%
• 24-Month Weight Loss: 18.6%

Follow-Up Compliance:

• 87% of patients attended follow-up appointments
• 13% were lost to follow-up

---

Minimal Side Effects and No Hospital Stay Required

Common side effects include:

• Mild abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, usually resolving within a few days
• Rare complications (2% of cases):
  • Fluid collection around the stomach (managed with antibiotics)
  • Pulmonary embolism (1 case)
  • Pneumothorax (1 case)

No patient required additional surgery, and all recovered fully without long-term complications.

Why Choose ESG?

• Minimally invasive & no incisions
• Same-day discharge or 24-hour observation
• Faster recovery compared to surgery
• Lower complication risk
• Reversible if needed

---

Conclusion

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (Apollo ESG) should not be seen as a replacement for bariatric surgery, but rather as an alternative for those who are not surgical candidates or prefer a less invasive solution.

• ESG can help patients lose up to 20% of their total body weight
• Long-term success depends on lifestyle changes and a personalized diet plan
• Follow-up support is crucial for sustained weight loss

For patients who do not meet the criteria for weight loss surgery, ESG represents a safe, effective, and scientifically proven option.

---

Cost of Apollo Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty

Due to the advanced technology and disposable suturing system used in ESG, the procedure is more expensive than traditional weight loss surgeries.

In Turkey, the Apollo OverStitch system costs approximately £5,500 (excluding hospital and surgeon fees), making ESG one of the most expensive non-surgical weight loss treatments.

However, at Istanbul Obesity Center, we offer affordable ESG packages with:

• Experienced endoscopic specialists
• State-of-the-art facilities
• All-inclusive pricing

For detailed pricing and appointment availability, contact us via WhatsApp at +90 545 133 99 79

---

Why Choose Istanbul Obesity Center for ESG?

✅ Expert bariatric endoscopists
✅ Comprehensive pre- and post-procedure care
✅ VIP medical services and patient support
✅ Personalized diet plans for long-term success
✅ Affordable all-inclusive treatment packages

If you’re considering Apollo ESG as a weight loss solution, we’re here to help. Contact us today for more information!