If you are severely overweight or obese and have tried various weight loss methods without success, bariatric endoscopy might be the next step for you. Bariatric endoscopy is a type of weight-loss procedure. In Arcadia, CA, bariatric endoscopy is offered at Gastrointestinal & Non-Surgical Weight Loss Solutions. Dr. Donald Portocarrero is a skilled interventional gastroenterologist and can determine if you are a candidate for this weight loss procedure.

Bariatric Endoscopy and Weight Loss

Bariatric endoscopy helps with weight loss by altering the size of the stomach. When the stomach is smaller, hunger feelings are reduced and patients feel full more quickly after eating less food.

Bariatric endoscopy is a non-surgical procedure, therefore it is much less invasive than traditional bariatric surgery since no exterior incisions are made. The procedure is performed using a thin, flexible endoscope that is gently passed through the mouth into the stomach. Performing the procedure in this manner is much safer and significantly reduces the likelihood of possible complications as compared to traditional bariatric surgery.

Types of Bariatric Endoscopies

Our experienced gastroenterologist performs three different types of bariatric endoscopy at our Arcadia, CA, gastroenterology and weight loss practice. All three types effectively help patients lose weight, while also being less invasive and safer than traditional bariatric surgery.

Types of bariatric endoscopies include:

• Endoscopic Gastric Sleeve: Also referred to as gastroplasty, this procedure involves suturing a portion of the stomach closed to make it smaller. The smaller stomach aids in weight loss by reducing hunger cravings and controlling portion size.
• Gastric Balloon: This procedure involves placing a balloon inside the stomach and inflating it to create a smaller area for food consumption. This reduces food intake and helps patients feel full faster. The balloon is left in place in the stomach for six months and is then removed.
• Transoral Gastric Outlet Reduction (TORe): This bariatric procedure is used to help patients who have regained some weight following gastric bypass surgery. This procedure helps by reducing the size of the gastric outlet, which is the area that connects the stomach and small bowel. This area can slowly expand over time following gastric bypass surgery, which leaves patients feeling less full so they eat more and regain the weight. Reducing the size of the gastric outlet helps patients feel full faster so they eat less.

Bariatric endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure for helping patients successfully lose weight. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Portocarrero to learn more about bariatric endoscopy by calling Gastrointestinal & Non-Surgical Weight Loss Solutions in Arcadia, CA, at (626) 461-5408.