Gastric sleeve surgery and endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) are two common procedures that help people achieve significant weight loss by reducing the size of their stomachs.
Whether you choose the surgical gastric sleeve or the nonsurgical ESG, knowing what to expect after the procedure can help you prepare for recovery and long-term success.
Here, our team at Peachtree Surgical & Bariatrics in Atlanta, Georgia, offers insight into what happens after your procedure.
Here’s what you need to know:
With gastric sleeve surgery, your surgeon makes incisions in your abdomen area and removes a large portion of your stomach. The recovery period generally lasts 4-6 weeks. You typically stay in the hospital for a day or two post-surgery so we can monitor you for complications.
You need about two weeks off work to focus on healing and to adjust to your new stomach size.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a nonsurgical procedure in which your practitioner uses an endoscope to reduce your stomach size by creating a sleeve through sutures.
Since the procedure doesn’t require external incisions, your recovery is quicker. Most patients return to their normal activities within a few days to a week, with little to no downtime.
After your procedure, paying attention to your diet is key. Here’s the breakdown:
After either procedure, you follow a liquid-only diet for the first week or two. Clear liquids such as broth, water, and sugar-free drinks are essential for healing.
By weeks 2-4, you can start consuming pureed and soft foods like mashed vegetables and blended proteins. This helps your stomach adjust to handling small amounts of food.
Around the fourth week, you transition to soft foods, including scrambled eggs, fish, and yogurt.
At approximately 6-8 weeks post-procedure, you can start introducing regular solid foods. Keep portions small, and focus on nutrient-dense options like lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains.
If you have gastric sleeve surgery, you can expect to lose 60-70% of your excess weight within the first year. The surgical removal of a large portion of your stomach reduces hunger and limits how much food you can consume.
If you have the ESG procedure, you can expect to lose 15-20% of your body weight within 6-12 months. While the weight loss may be slower than surgery, it’s still effective, especially if you prefer a nonsurgical option.
Both procedures require significant lifestyle changes to be successful. You need to adopt healthier eating habits, like focusing on portion control and incorporating physical activity into your routine.
You must keep your follow-up appointments with us so we can track your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your diet or exercise plan.
Our goal is to help you stay committed to your weight loss journey, no matter which option you choose.
Give us a call at 404-977-5824 or schedule a consultation through this website at our office in the Buckhead district of Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Titus Duncan of Peachtree Bariatrics also conducts a free weight loss webinar every Saturday, 9AM ET. This is a learning session about healthy lifestyle, proper weight loss procedures and ready to answer all your questions about weight loss. Sign up here.
We’re happy to answer your questions and provide guidance.
