Gastric Botox

What Is Gastric Botox?

Gastric botox is the injection of botulinum toxin type A into specific muscle areas of the stomach via endoscopy. Botulinum toxin is a substance that temporarily suppresses muscle contractions. When applied to the stomach, it slows down the movement of the gastric muscles.

This slowdown creates two main effects:

Delayed gastric emptying: Since food remains in the stomach longer, the feeling of fullness lasts longer.

Changes in hunger hormone balance: The slowdown of gastric movements affects the secretion of the hormone ghrelin, reducing the sensation of hunger.

The effect of gastric botox is temporary and typically lasts between 4 and 6 months. During this period, the patient has a supportive window to develop healthier eating habits.

How Does Gastric Botox Work?

The stomach is composed of three main regions: the upper region (fundus), the middle region (corpus), and the lower region (antrum). The hunger hormone ghrelin is largely secreted by the upper part of the stomach (fundus). When gastric botox is applied, the injections to these regions:

• Partially reduce ghrelin secretion
• Slow down the contractions of the stomach muscles
• Prolong digestion time
• Support the feeling of fullness

Through this mechanism, the patient may reduce daily calorie intake without consciously trying to do so.

Who Is It Suitable For?

Gastric botox is not suitable for every individual struggling with weight. Generally, suitable candidates include:

• Individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 27-35
• Patients who are not candidates for or do not accept bariatric surgery
• Those who have not achieved sufficient results through diet and exercise
• Adults between 18-65 years old in suitable general health
• Individuals motivated to make lifestyle changes

Gastric botox is generally not recommended in the following cases:

• Patients with active stomach ulcers or gastritis
• Individuals who have undergone previous stomach surgery
• People with allergies to botulinum toxin
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Patients with muscle disorders (such as myasthenia gravis)
• Individuals with bleeding disorders or those using blood thinners

How Is Gastric Botox Performed?

Pre-Procedure Evaluation

A detailed medical history of the patient is taken. Blood tests and, when necessary, basic health checks before endoscopy are performed. A consultation with a dietitian is also an important part of this stage. The patient is required to fast for 8-12 hours before the procedure.

The Procedure

The procedure is performed under light sedation. The endoscope is advanced through the mouth into the stomach. Using a thin injection needle at the tip of the endoscope, botulinum toxin is injected at approximately 15-25 points along the stomach wall. The entire procedure takes an average of 15-30 minutes.

After the Procedure

The patient is usually discharged the same day after 1-2 hours of observation. Since there is no surgery, no significant recovery period is required. Most patients can return to their normal lives the next day. Mild bloating, gas, or fatigue may occur in the first few days.

Gastric Botox Process and Nutrition

The success of gastric botox depends not only on the procedure itself but also on the eating habits the patient develops during this process. The process generally proceeds as follows:

First 3-7 days: Soft and liquid foods are preferred until mild symptoms subside.

First month: The effect begins to fully manifest. The patient feels full with smaller amounts of food.

Months 2-4: The effect of the botox is at its peak. During this period, the patient works to establish new eating habits.

Months 4-6: The effect gradually begins to decrease. After this period, maintaining lifestyle changes becomes essential.

Dietitian follow-up throughout the treatment is very important. Without the development of healthy eating habits, weight regain may occur once the effect of the botox subsides.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Gastric Botox

Advantages

• A non-surgical, incision-free method
• Light sedation is sufficient instead of general anesthesia
• Short procedure time (15-30 minutes)
• Quick recovery period
• Fewer side effects compared to gastric balloon
• A reversible and temporary application
• Stomach examination can be done in the same session via endoscopy

Disadvantages

• The effect is time-limited (4-6 months)
• Weight loss is more limited compared to surgical methods
• Without lifestyle changes, lasting results are not achieved
• May not produce the same effect in all patients
• Repetition may be required

Expected Outcomes

Clinical studies on patients who have undergone gastric botox generally observe the following outcomes:

• Loss of approximately 10-20% of excess weight over the 4-6 month process
• A noticeable decrease in appetite
• Reduction in food portion sizes
• Extended feeling of fullness
• Decreased snacking needs

Results vary from individual to individual. The most important factor is how effectively the patient uses this 4-6 month period to establish healthy eating habits.

Possible Side Effects and Risks

Gastric botox is a relatively safe procedure, but some side effects may occur:

• Temporary nausea and mild abdominal pain
• Mild bloating and gas
• Reflux symptoms
• Fatigue due to reduced appetite
• Allergic reactions in rare cases

Very rare risks associated with endoscopy include irritation of the stomach lining or bleeding. For this reason, it is essential that the procedure be performed by an experienced gastroenterology team.

Differences Between Gastric Botox, Gastric Balloon, and Surgery

The three methods differ from one another in important ways:

Gastric botox is the least invasive method but provides the least amount of weight loss. The choice of method should be individually evaluated based on the patient's BMI, expectations, health condition, and lifestyle.