Stomach Botox is a simple, non-surgical procedure that helps people who want moderate weight loss. Here is everything you need to know about stomach Botox. (1)
Stomach Botox
Stomach Botox is a simple, non-surgical weight loss procedure that includes. Botulinum toxin injection in the stomach wall causes the muscles to relax temporarily and slow stomach emptying. This helps you feel full for a longer period after eating, and thus eat smaller quantities and lose weight. (2)
Stomach Botox is injected through the endoscope from the mouth to the stomach. It works best when combined with a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. (3)
Who is a candidate for stomach Botox?
Stomach Botox is ideal for individuals who struggle with losing weight through traditional methods and are looking to achieve a moderate weight loss of about 5% of their body weight. (2)(3)
It is not suitable for people who are morbidly obese (BMI 40+), as these people usually need bariatric surgery. (1)
For patients who suffer from any stomach problems such as ulcers or inflammation, they can first receive appropriate treatment for these diseases and then stomach Botox can be obtained. (4)
How is stomach Botox injected?
Preparing for the procedure
You will receive a complete medical consultation, and if the doctor deems that the procedure is suitable for you, he will schedule an appointment for you to perform it, and will recommend several instructions to you, including: (1)
- Fasting for a certain period before the procedure.
- Changing or stopping the doses or timing of some of your medications in the days before the procedure, such as antacids medications and blood thinners.
- Stop smoking.
During the procedure
The procedure takes place in the endoscopy center in the hospital or doctor's office, takes about 10-20 minutes on average, and is performed within the following steps: (1)
- An anesthesiologist sedates you.
- The specialist doctor inserts an endoscope equipped with a syringe into the stomach through the mouth.
- The doctor injects botulinum toxin into several places around the lower part of the stomach.
- The medication paralyzes the muscles of the stomach wall and prevents them from contracting. This keeps food in the stomach longer, which slows down the digestion process and helps you feel full faster and for a longer period.
After the procedure
In general, you will be monitored for 1-2 hours after the procedure until the anesthesia wears off, but you will need someone to drive you home, because you may still feel drowsy. You may feel discomfort in the throat, as well as general fatigue and exhaustion for several days, which gradually subsides. You can return to your usual activities the next day after the procedure. (1)
Your surgeon will ask you to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours, stick to a healthy diet to get the most benefit, and avoid foods that contain excess fat and carbohydrates such as fast food. He will also recommend that you eat slowly, chew well, and stop when you feel full. (1)
When does Botox start working in the stomach?
In Within 7-10 days almost immediately after the procedure, you may begin to notice that you are less hungry, feel full faster when eating, and be able to settle for less food. (1)
When does stomach Botox end?
Stomach Botox results is not permanent, the effect of the injection lasts about three months, and you can repeat the procedure every six months. (2)
Is stomach botox safe? Are there any side effects?
Botox has been used in medicine for years, and no harm has been reported when used in the correct dose by a qualified specialist, if his instructions are followed, such as fasting and stopping any blood-thinning medications to avoid any complications. (3)
Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain from the endoscopy. Rarely, more serious effects, such as difficulty breathing and muscle weakness, may occur. (2)(3)
How Many Kilograms Can You Lose with Stomach Botox?
Stomach botox usually results in weight loss approximately 5% of body weight, or about 10 kilograms over a period of 6 months, however, the amount of weight lost may vary from one person to another depending on age, metabolic rate, frequency of exercise, and adherence to the doctor’s instructions. For best results, adhere to your doctor's instructions regarding incorporating healthy eating and regular physical activity into your routine. (1)(2)
It is worth noting that some people may not benefit from stomach Botox in losing weight, and need alternative options.
At Al-Ahli Hospital, we offer advanced, non-surgical weight loss solutions tailored to your needs. Our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively to find the most suitable approach for your health and goals.
Start your journey toward a healthier weight—book your consultation today.
References
- Botulinum Toxin Stomach Injections for Weight Loss - Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Botulism Cases Linked to Intragastric Injections for Obesity - Medscape
- Is Intragastric Botulinum Toxin A Injection Effective in Obesity Treatment - NIH NLM
- Can gastric botulinum toxin A injection be used as minimally invasive procedure in the short-term treatment of obesity - Journal of Minimal Access Surgery