What is Gastric Botox?
This procedure consists of injecting the walls of the patient’s stomach with Botox, temporarily paralyzing them and thus reducing the intensity of their contractions that push food towards the intestines. This will in turn help to reduce quantities of food consumed and lead to a faster feeling of fullness, thus minimising daily food intake. The Gastric Botox procedure is performed on individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) under 35. The Gastric Botox procedure is performed on individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) under 35.
Overview
of the Procedure
- Upon lightly sedating the patient, an endoscope will be inserted through the mouth to the stomach, which in turn will allow the doctor to reach the appropriate position within the stomach walls to inject the Botox using the needle placed at the end of the endoscope.
- After the specified amount of Botox has been injected, the endoscope is then smoothly retrieved through the esophagus -ensuring not to cause much discomfort-, keeping in mind that the patient would be able to leave the hospital and resume daily activities on the same day without any real concern over complications, due to the ease of the procedure.
- Gastric Botox injections takes between 20-30 minutes on average.
- Gastric Botox is not considered a surgical procedure, as it is performed using an endoscope.
Anesthesia:
The Gastric Botox procedure does not require general anesthesia but is performed under light sedation which typically fades in 20 minutes.
Duration of Stay:
This procedure is performed in a single day.
Post-Op & Aftercare
- The patient may experience some nausea in the first few days after the procedure. Nonetheless, like all gastric procedures, this would be a natural reaction to foreign intervention with the stomach (gastro-intenstinal system?). These symptoms will soon disappear as the body adjusts to the new setting.
- For three days after getting Gastric Botox injections, the patient must commit to consuming liquid food (soups) and fluids, after which a strict dietary program is necessary.
- Gastric Botox typically lasts for a period of 6 months, after which its effects will naturally dissipate.
Your case will be monitored by the medical follow-up department on a monthly basis following the operation for a full year to ensure adherence to instructions for the best results.
