- Non-surgical
- ~30 minutes
- Sedation
- Same-day discharge
Gastric Botox — what is it?
Gastric botox is a non-surgical weight management method, applied endoscopically worldwide for 10–15 years, that temporarily deactivates the stomach muscles influencing appetite and hunger using botulinum toxin. The goal is to slow gastric contractions and prolong gastric emptying, creating a longer-lasting feeling of fullness.
A stomach that normally empties in 5–6 hours can stay full for up to about 12 hours after the procedure. As a result you feel hungry less often during the day, portions shrink and calorie intake naturally decreases. The procedure takes 20–30 minutes on average, requires no incision or stitches and is performed under light sedation.
Gastric botox is not a miracle on its own; the best results come together with a personalised nutrition plan and lifestyle changes. A weight loss of about 10–15% of total body weight is typically targeted within 3–6 months.
How is it done?
- 1
Endoscopic assessment
The esophagus, stomach and duodenum are evaluated by endoscopy and suitability is determined.
- 2
Botox application
Under sedation, botulinum toxin is injected into wide areas of the stomach without any incision.
- 3
Follow-up & nutrition
Liquid diet for the first 3 days; an effective 4–6 month process is followed with a personalised nutrition plan.
Benefits
- No surgery, incision or stitches
- Completed in about 30 minutes
- No general anesthesia needed
- Marked appetite reduction, prolonged satiety
- Same-day discharge, fast return to daily life
- Effective for up to 6 months
Who is it for?
- Those with a body mass index (BMI) under 40
- Those unable to lose 15–25 kg with diet and exercise
- Those with high surgical risk or who decline surgery
- Those who struggle with portion control
Aftercare
- About 1 hour of observation after the procedure
- Liquids for the first 3 days, then a gradual return to normal eating
- Avoiding fast food, acidic and very fatty foods
- Plenty of water and adherence to the recommended nutrition plan
Frequently asked questions
When does the effect start?
Appetite reduction usually begins within 2–3 days; weight loss becomes noticeable after about 2 weeks.
Is the procedure painful?
It is performed under sedation, so no pain is felt during the procedure; mild bloating may follow.
Who is it suitable for?
Generally suitable for those with BMI 27–40 who prefer to avoid surgery. It is not applied to those with muscle disease or botox allergy.
How much weight is lost?
With proper nutrition, a loss of about 10–15% of total body weight is expected in 3–6 months.
Is it permanent?
The botox effect lasts 4–6 months. The eating habits gained in this period determine permanence; it can be repeated when needed.
Are there side effects?
Applied by specialists it has no known lasting harm; rarely, temporary nausea or indigestion may occur.
