Gastric Botox: How Effective Is It and Who Is It For?

What is gastric Botox and how is it done?

Gastric Botox is one of the obesity treatment options that has become popular recently. It is more accurately described as a method that supports dieting. Botox is injected endoscopically into specific areas of the stomach from the inside. Because it is not surgery, it is a minimally invasive method. Since it is performed under sedation, no pain or discomfort is felt during or after the procedure, making it a very comfortable method. Because sedation is used, about 2 hours of observation is required, after which our patients can return to work and their daily lives.

How does gastric Botox work?

Botox injected into specific parts of the stomach stops or reduces stomach movements, causing food to stay in the stomach longer. This leads to an earlier feeling of fullness and delayed hunger. Because it reduces food intake, it leads to weight loss. It is effective for about 6 months and can be repeated if necessary.

What are the disadvantages of gastric Botox?

This method works by increasing the feeling of fullness, causing early satiety and delayed hunger, but it does not reduce stomach volume. Therefore, although it creates a feeling of fullness, it does not prevent food intake. It may be ineffective in people with eating disorders. A diet program after the gastric Botox procedure is essential for effective weight loss. Sticking to the diet program will be quite easy because the feeling of fullness supports it, but it can be said to be indispensable.

Another disadvantage is that its effect is temporary. Although it can be repeated, the goal is a single application, adequate weight loss and maintenance of the weight lost. To achieve this, the diet program must be followed, and after the effect of the Botox wears off at 6 months, the eating habits established during those 6 months must be maintained. Otherwise, weight may be regained.

Who is gastric Botox suitable for?

Although it can be applied at any weight and can be repeated, the amount of weight lost varies according to the diet followed and the exercise done. For this reason, very large weight loss should not be expected in severely overweight patients. Weight-loss expectations should be realistic. Patients who can add exercise and a diet to their lives and maintain this lifestyle are the most suitable candidates for gastric Botox.

I had gastric Botox but I can't lose weight. Why?

There are 2 reasons for this.

1- Gastric Botox is performed at many centers using many different methods and doses. However, to achieve the desired effect, it must be applied with the right method, to the right areas, in the right amount and with the right instruments. Otherwise, it may be ineffective.

2- Continuing to eat despite feeling full and not following the diet and exercise program also lead to insufficient weight loss.

With gastric Botox performed in our clinic using appropriate devices by effective and competent physicians in the field, you can see your expectations met. You are invited to the Özel Can Hastanesi General Surgery outpatient clinic for all your related questions and for an evaluation of individual treatment options. We wish you a healthy and happy life.