Prof. Dr. Toygar Toydemir
He received the title of Professor of General Surgery in 2020. Dr. Toydemir, who has extensive experience in reflux and obesity surgery, continues his work in these fields. You can read the rest of our article about Weight Loss Without Surgery prices, treatment process, and post-treatment precautions.
Read More Make an AppointmentNon-surgical weight loss methods offer effective and safe options for individuals seeking to lose weight without surgical intervention. Gastric balloons and gastric Botox are among the most frequently preferred minimally invasive methods in this field. While a gastric balloon restricts stomach volume to provide an early feeling of fullness, gastric Botox reduces appetite and delays gastric emptying to support weight loss. Both methods should be performed under careful patient selection and by an expert team. Side effects are generally mild and temporary; however, as with any procedure, risks exist. These treatments are among the innovative solutions modern medicine offers for weight management.
Non-surgical weight loss methods have a long developmental background in the medical world. The foundations of gastric balloons were laid through the observation that foreign objects filling the stomach led to weight loss. The first free-floating intragastric balloon introduced by Nieben and Harboe in 1982 was a breakthrough in obesity treatment. This development paved the way for the emergence of the Garren-Edwards Bubble, which received FDA approval in 1985. However, due to complications and limited effectiveness, its approval was withdrawn in 1992.
Over time, safer and more effective designs were developed. In 2015, the FDA approved modern devices such as the ReShape Integrated Dual Balloon System and the Orbera Intragastric Balloon. These new-generation balloons succeeded in reducing complication risks while increasing weight loss rates. That same year, the Allurion Elipse gastric balloon, approved in Europe, attracted attention with its design that does not require endoscopy and can be naturally excreted from the body.
Gastric Botox came to prominence with the expanding therapeutic applications of botulinum toxin. Discovered in the 19th century, this toxin found its place in many medical uses by the late 20th century. The injection of Botox into the stomach aims to delay gastric emptying to help control appetite. Initial studies showed promise, but it became clear that more research was needed regarding its effectiveness.
Non-surgical weight loss methods provide an effective solution for individuals struggling to lose weight and seeking alternatives to surgical interventions. Procedures like the intragastric balloon and gastric Botox can yield successful results in patients who meet certain criteria. These methods are suitable for individuals with the following characteristics:
An intragastric balloon is generally recommended for adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25–40 kg/m². It is also suitable for patients with comorbid conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea that can improve with weight loss. It can be an effective option for individuals who have not achieved success with diet and exercise in previous weight loss attempts. However, patients must be motivated to adhere to lifestyle changes for this method to be implemented. Individuals who have undergone previous gastrointestinal surgery or who have bleeding disorders or other serious medical problems are not suitable for this method.
Gastric Botox injections are an alternative method for individuals with a BMI over 25 kg/m² who do not wish to undergo surgery. This procedure is suitable for patients without major medical issues and who do not have gastroparesis or intestinal obstruction. However, the effectiveness of gastric Botox can vary from person to person, and it is important to inform patients of this before treatment.
Although non-surgical weight loss methods offer effective solutions for weight management, not everyone may be suitable for these treatments. The safety and effectiveness of procedures like gastric balloons (IGB) and gastric Botox can vary depending on certain health conditions. Therefore, a detailed medical assessment before treatment is critically important.
Absolute contraindications for gastric balloons include previous stomach or esophageal surgery, active upper gastrointestinal bleeding, severe liver diseases (Child-Pugh B or C), hiatal hernias larger than 5 cm, coagulopathy (bleeding disorders), and pregnancy. These conditions may prevent safe balloon placement or lead to serious complications. Relative contraindications include medium-sized hiatal hernias (3–5 cm), inflammatory bowel diseases, chronic NSAID use, and a history of esophagitis. In such cases, treatment should be decided upon after carefully assessing the risks.
Gastric Botox injections have fewer clear contraindications. However, neuromuscular disorders (e.g., myasthenia gravis), allergies to botulinum toxin, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and active infections at the injection site may indicate that you are not a suitable candidate for this treatment.
For both methods, treatment should not begin without a detailed assessment of your health status.
Non-surgical weight loss methods offer effective, safe, and minimally invasive solutions for individuals wishing to lose weight without surgical intervention. The most common methods include the gastric balloon and gastric Botox. Both procedures are carefully planned and performed by specialist physicians.
The Gastric Balloon Procedure is carried out under mild sedation or local anesthesia. Using an endoscope—a flexible tube with a camera at its tip—the stomach is accessed, and a silicone balloon is carefully placed. The balloon is filled with 400 to 700 milliliters of sterile saline to restrict stomach volume, providing an early feeling of fullness and reducing food intake. The procedure takes 20 to 30 minutes, and the patient is discharged on the same day. The balloon usually remains in the stomach for six months and is removed with a similar technique.
The Gastric Botox Procedure is also performed under mild sedation. The stomach is accessed using an endoscope, and botulinum toxin is injected into the antral muscles, which regulate gastric emptying. This slows down the movement of the stomach, extending the feeling of fullness and reducing appetite. The procedure only takes 15 to 20 minutes, and the patient can quickly return to daily activities. However, the effect of Botox is temporary, generally lasting three to six months, and repeated applications may be necessary.
As with any medical procedure, methods such as gastric balloons and gastric Botox carry certain side effects and risks. These effects are generally mild and temporary; however, it is important for patients to be informed about them before undergoing the procedure.
Common side effects associated with Gastric Balloons include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). These symptoms can be particularly intense during the first few days but usually decrease as the body adapts. In rare cases, more serious complications such as deflation or displacement of the balloon can occur. This may cause intestinal blockage and require urgent intervention. Additionally, conditions like gastric ulcers, erosions, or esophagitis have been reported. Although the mortality rate is quite low, these complication risks should be thoroughly evaluated before the procedure.
Gastric Botox Injections are generally associated with fewer side effects. Mild abdominal bloating, cramping, or indigestion typically resolve within a few days. However, in rare cases, allergic reactions, neurological problems caused by the effect of botulinum toxin on surrounding muscles, or respiratory depression may be observed.
Non-surgical weight loss methods provide effective options for weight loss and enhancing quality of life without the need for surgery. The most commonly used methods in this field are intragastric balloons (IGB) and gastric botulinum toxin (BTA) injections. However, the effectiveness and success of both methods can vary based on individual factors and application protocols.
Clinical studies have shown that IGBs offer significant benefits in weight loss. For instance, in a study involving the Elipse™ swallowable gastric balloon, patients lost 14.2% of their total body weight over a 4-month period. Additionally, IGBs generally provide a BMI reduction of around 2–3 kg/m². By creating an early feeling of fullness and reducing food intake, these devices facilitate weight loss. Long-term success rates increase further when combined with lifestyle changes.
Gastric Botox aims to reduce appetite and delay gastric emptying by injecting botulinum toxin into the stomach muscles. However, existing evidence indicates that its efficacy is limited. In a meta-analysis of five randomized controlled trials, BTA injections were not found to be superior to saline injections in terms of weight loss. Nonetheless, better results have been observed in individuals with a higher baseline BMI.
Non-surgical weight loss methods require proper preparation processes to achieve effective results. Before undergoing either the gastric balloon or gastric Botox procedures, it is crucial for patients to be physically, psychologically, and lifestyle-ready. The first step is comprehensive medical evaluation and consultation. By sharing their medical conditions, medications, and allergies with healthcare professionals, patients contribute to developing an appropriate treatment plan. Physical examinations and necessary tests determine the patient’s suitability for the procedure.
Dietary adjustments are of great importance during the preparation phase. For the gastric balloon procedure, a liquid diet is recommended for a few days before the procedure, and patients must avoid consuming food or drink after midnight the night before. A similar fasting period is advised for gastric Botox. These measures minimize the risks of complications during the procedures.
Medication management is another crucial step in preparation. Adjustments such as discontinuing blood thinners before the procedure help reduce potential risks. It is essential to follow medical advice regarding any changes to medications during this process.
Non-surgical weight loss methods require proper care and follow-up to achieve effective results. After gastric balloon or gastric Botox applications, it is important for patients to adhere to certain recommendations to protect their health and meet their goals. Mild discomfort may be experienced in the first few days as the body adapts to this new situation. These symptoms can typically be controlled with antiemetic medications and proton pump inhibitors to suppress stomach acid.
In the first week following treatment, a liquid diet is advised. With a gastric balloon, puréed and soft foods are gradually introduced as the stomach adapts to the balloon. After gastric Botox, a balanced and portion-controlled diet is organized. In both methods, small and frequent meals are preferred to increase the stomach’s tolerance capacity.
Consuming enough water is critical for supporting overall body functions and preventing nausea. Likewise, regular exercise is encouraged to optimize weight loss and maintain muscle mass. Initially, light exercises should be performed, gradually increasing their duration and intensity as time goes on.
Regular medical check-ups are essential for the early detection of potential complications and for making necessary lifestyle adjustments. Consulting with nutrition experts and obtaining psychological support during this process can increase success rates. Acute abdominal pain, deflation of the balloon, or intestinal obstruction may require emergency intervention and should be closely monitored.
References
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