What is Stomach Botox?
Stomach botox or gastric botox is the injection of Botulinum toxin (botox) into specific muscles of the stomach. With this method, the nerves and muscles that regulate the appetite and hunger mechanism in the stomach are temporarily neutralized. This means that appetite decreases, as the stomach contracts less than usual, and the duration of feeling full is longer. With less food intake, the stomach remains full for a longer period of time.
Stomach botox is a good alternative for weight loss without surgery at our clinic in Istanbul, Turkey.
What is the procedure for stomach botox?
Stomach botox is an endoscopic, non-surgical procedure. First, the patient will receive sedation to minimize any discomfort. Then, an endoscopic tube (gastroscope) is inserted into the stomach. The gastroscope will help the surgeon see the areas of the stomach to inject the botox.
After the device reaches the stomach, the surgeon will inject Botulinum toxin (botox) into certain parts of the stomach. This process takes an average of 20 minutes. After the procedure, the patient will rest for 1-2 hours for observation before being able to go home.
You may need to have 2 or 3 botox injections to achieve the desired result.
What is the process after stomach botox?
Since stomach botox is a non-surgical procedure, it does not have any side effects. Therefore, the patient can return to their daily life immediately. However, we recommend avoiding heavy foods for the first few days to allow the stomach to adjust to the new conditions. Here are some points to keep in mind:
- Appetite begins to decrease 3 days after the operation and this effect lasts for 4-6 months.
- You should pay attention to your food and follow the diet prescribed by your surgeon.
- After the operation, excessive fatty fast food style foods should be avoided.
- The effect of botox used for stomach botox disappears after six months and the stomach returns to its normal function. Therefore, you need to continue a healthy lifestyle to maintain the results.
Who can have stomach botox?
Gastric botox is a non-surgical procedure that helps with weight loss. However, it may not be effective in all cases of overweight or obesity, as its effects are limited. Therefore, individuals who can benefit from stomach injections are those:
- With a body mass index (BMI) between 27.5 and 40.
- Who do not have any stomach problems such as stomach ulcers.
- Who are willing to commit to a special diet program for at least 4 months.
- Who want to lose 10 to 20 kg of weight.
Does stomach botox have side effects?
Botox has been used for a long time to treat ocular problems, neurological diseases, wrinkles, and excessive sweating. Therefore, it is technically a safe material to use in the body. However, the patient may feel a little discomfort for the first few days until the stomach adjusts to it.