non surgical weight loss procedures - #20998
I am really confused about these non surgical weight loss procedures. Like, I always thought surgery was the only option until I heard a friend say they lost a lot of weight with some kinda non surgical weight loss procedures. I mean, I’ve been struggling with my weight for years now, and diets and workouts aren’t cutting it anymore. Last month, I was at the doctor for a check-up, and my BMI was way too high, which made me feel so bad. She mentioned a few non surgical weight loss procedures, but I didn't really get the details in the moment. I just want to know more about what these non surgical weight loss procedures actually are. Are they effective? My friend gave me hope saying she lost over 30 pounds with one, but I'm scared to try something that isn't proven. I’ve read stuff on the internet but all the info seems biased. Besides, I wonder if there are risks involved with these non surgical weight loss procedures. Could any of you share experiences or insights on what to expect? I feel like I need something to help me break this cycle. If I can avoid surgery, that would be awesome. Just really looking for some honest feedback, thanks!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Non-surgical weight loss procedures can indeed offer an alternative for individuals who find that traditional methods like diet and exercise alone aren’t sufficient. One common method is the use of intragastric balloons. These are saline-filled balloons placed in the stomach to help create a feeling of fullness, contributing to weight loss by limiting the amount of food the stomach can hold. Another option is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG), a procedure where the stomach size is reduced using sutures, which helps reduce hunger and calorie intake. One more approach is the aspiration therapy, where a device drains a portion of the stomach contents after meals to limit calorie absorption. These procedures are generally suitable for people with a BMI over 30, who haven’t been successful in losing weight through diet and exercise alone and who may not qualify for bariatric surgery.
Effectiveness can vary between procedures, but on average, patients may lose 10-20% of their total body weight within the first 6-12 months. They’re generally considered safe when performed by experienced professionals, though every procedure comes with its own set of potential risks and side effects. For example, intragastric balloons might cause nausea or vomiting initially, and there’s a small risk of the balloon deflating prematurely. It’s important to have these treatments done in conjunction with a comprehensive lifestyle program including changes in diet, behavior therapy, and physical activity to maximize and maintain weight loss. Consulting with a medical professional who specializes in weight management can help determine if you’re a good candidate for these procedures and which might suit you best. It’s crucial to thoroughly discuss the possible outcomes and any concerns with your healthcare provider before making a decision.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.