Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) can help you finally take control of your weight and your health. This non-surgical, minimally invasive weight loss procedure offers a faster recovery and fewer risks than traditional bariatric surgery. With ongoing support from our care team, ESG helps you build meaningful, sustainable habits for long-term weight loss and lasting results.
What is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty?
ESG is a non-surgical, minimally invasive weight-loss procedure performed by inserting a flexible tube through the mouth and into the stomach. A suturing device is then used to place sutures inside the stomach to make it smaller. There are no incisions, and most people go home the same day.
How ESG Supports Weight Loss
By reducing your stomach size, endoscopic weight loss procedures like ESG help you feel satisfied with smaller meals, which can make it easier to eat less and manage your calories.
Combined with guidance from your care team the procedure supports healthy eating habits, lifestyle changes and steady, long-term weight loss.
ESG vs. Other Weight Loss Options
ESG fills the gap for people who want more support than medication alone but aren’t ready for bariatric surgery. Unlike surgery, ESG is an outpatient procedure that offers:
- Fewer complications and side effects
- Shorter recovery time
- Same-day discharge
Compared to medications alone, ESG helps create stronger early momentum for weight loss while still emphasizing lifestyle changes to support your long-term success.
Who is a candidate for ESG?
Your care team will work with you to understand your health history, goals and lifestyle to help determine whether ESG is a good fit for you. In general, ESG may be right for you if:
- Your body mass index (BMI) falls between 30 and 50
- You’ve tried changing your diet, exercising and/or weight-loss medications, but haven’t seen lasting results
- You’re looking for an option beyond medication and aren’t ready for, or don’t qualify for, traditional bariatric surgery
- You’re ready to partner with a care team and make sustainable changes to your eating and activity habits
Recovery and What to Expect
ESG is performed as an outpatient procedure, with most patients going home a few hours after the procedure. In the first six weeks, you’ll follow a more restrictive diet plan that gradually transitions to a calorie-controlled plan designed to support steady weight loss. You may experience mild abdominal discomfort or nausea in the first few days, but these symptoms usually resolve quickly.
Most patients return to their normal activities soon after the procedure. You’ll have access to our team at the RiverPlex Weight Management Clinic who can help you establish healthy habits for long-term success. They offer nutrition counseling, educational classes and follow-up visits so you are never alone while you work towards the healthiest version of yourself.
Why Choose OSF Saint Francis for ESG
At OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center, ESG is more than a procedure. It’s a complete support system for your health and weight-loss goals.
Our diverse team of specialists includes gastroenterologists, dietitians, behavioral health specialists and care coordinators, all working together to help you achieve meaningful results.
After the procedure, you’ll be wrapped in support for as long as you need, from ongoing education, and follow-up appointments to specific guidance that helps you maintain your weight loss and improve your overall health for the long haul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty reversible?
ESG is minimally invasive but not intended to be reversed. Lifestyle changes remain essential for long-term success.
How much weight can I lose?
Patients typically lose 15–20% of their total body weight, with additional health benefits such as improvements in diabetes and sleep apnea, as well as better liver function.
Is ESG covered by insurance?
Coverage for these types of procedures varies. You can ask your insurance provider for details and discuss options with your primary care provider.
How long do results last?
The weight loss you achieve with ESG can last for years, especially when paired with healthy lifestyle changes. Our team will continue to provide guidance, nutrition support and follow-up care to help you maintain your results over the long term.
Take the First Step
Ask your primary care provider to submit a referral to the OSF Weight Management Program to discuss whether ESG is right for you. Need a primary care provider? Browse our directory.
