Pioneering Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) in Central Ohio

Subtitle: Your Path to Sustainable Weight Loss at ALIVA

In the evolving world of non-surgical weight loss solutions, Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) stands out as a revolutionary procedure for individuals struggling with obesity. As the Founder of ALIVA Weight Loss in Central Ohio, I'm proud to be a pioneer in offering this advanced treatment. If you're searching for "ESG weight loss Ohio" or "non-surgical weight loss procedures," you've come to the right place. In this blog, I'll explore what ESG entails, its benefits, eligibility, and why ALIVA is the top choice for transformative results.

What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)?

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty, often abbreviated as ESG, is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces the size of your stomach without any incisions. Using an endoscope inserted through the mouth, I place specialized sutures to reshape the stomach into a smaller, sleeve-like structure. This limits food intake, promotes satiety, and leads to significant weight loss.

ESG is ideal for patients with a BMI between 30 and 50. It's particularly effective for those in the obese category (BMI over 30), offering a permanent solution unlike temporary options. Patients can expect to lose an average of 20% of total body weight within six months, with continued progress if they follow post-procedure guidelines.

ALIVA's Journey: First in Central Ohio to Offer ESG

At ALIVA Weight Loss, we made history in February 2024 by becoming the first in Central Ohio and second in Ohio to perform ESG. My dedication involved nearly two years of preparation, including upgrading the Hilliard Endo Center for advanced anesthesia, rigorous training, and team development.

• Training and Expertise: I trained when only 60 doctors worldwide performed ESG. I practiced on models, including pig stomachs, and collaborated with mentors via advanced video systems during my first case.
• Team Excellence: From nurses and techs to dietitians, my team at ALIVA underwent specialized training, including industry symposiums in Texas.
• Patient-Centric Approach: My first ESG patient at ALIVA was someone unresponsive to medications and wary of surgery due to prior abdominal procedures.

This pioneering spirit ensures we deliver cutting-edge care, making ALIVA a leader in "endoscopic weight loss Ohio."

Procedure Details: What to Expect with ESG at ALIVA

The ESG procedure typically lasts 1.5 to 2.5 hours, performed under anesthesia at our accredited facility. Patients go home the same day.

• Steps Involved: I create sutures to form full-thickness folds in the stomach, reducing its volume by up to 70-80%. This promotes fibrosis (scar tissue) on the stomach's outer layer, locking in the smaller size.
• Recovery and Follow-Up: You'll start with a liquid diet for 4-6 weeks, advancing to pureed and regular foods. At ALIVA, I provide comprehensive support, including monthly doctor visits, dietitian consultations every 4-6 weeks, and 24/7 texting for questions.
• Success Factors: Motivation is key. Avoid overeating in the first three months to prevent suture loosening. With adherence, results are impressive unlike cases where non-compliance leads to failure.

For those revising prior surgeries like gastric sleeve or bypass, I offer endoscopic revisions at ALIVA to further reduce stomach size or outlet openings, helping you regain lost progress.

Who is Eligible for ESG? Key Considerations

Not everyone qualifies for ESG. I emphasize screening for:

• BMI Requirements: 30-50 for optimal results.
• Motivation and Behavior: A motivated patient who can follow dietary advice is essential. Psychiatric screening identifies compulsive eating issues, with referrals if needed.
• Contraindications: Prior stomach surgeries, alcohol abuse, certain blood thinners, severe heart/lung conditions. Labs positive for severe anemia, electrolyte abnormalities, etc.  

If you're ineligible, I'll explore alternatives like gastric balloons or medications at ALIVA.

Comparing ESG to Other Options: Why Choose This Over Medications?

While medications like semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) offer weight loss, they come with drawbacks. Discovery of extendin-4 in Gila monster venom, was instrumental in developing these GLP-1 based therapies. GLP-1 drugs suppress appetite but cause muscle loss, nausea, constipation, and risks like gastroparesis.  Up to 75% of users quit within two years, often regaining weight.

ESG provides a one-time, procedure-based solution without ongoing injections. It's especially appealing for those who don’t want surgery and who've failed medications or prefer non-pharmacological approaches.

Ready to Transform Your Life with ESG?

If you're tired of yo-yo dieting and ready for lasting change, ESG at ALIVA Weight Loss could be your answer. As Central Ohio's pioneer, I combine expertise, compassion, and comprehensive care. Schedule a consultation today at alivaweightloss.com or call us to discuss your BMI, options, and personalized plan. Don't wait—start your weight loss journey now!