Treatment Overview
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) in Korea is a minimally invasive, non-surgical weight loss procedure that reduces stomach volume using an endoscopic suturing device. Unlike traditional bariatric surgery, ESG is performed through the mouth, eliminating the need for incisions. The procedure reshapes the stomach into a smaller sleeve, restricting food intake and promoting early satiety.
Korean medical centers provide ESG using advanced endoscopic technologies and highly trained specialists. The procedure is ideal for patients seeking significant weight loss without surgery, offering reduced recovery time and lower complication rates compared to conventional bariatric procedures.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of ESG is to help patients achieve safe and effective weight loss while minimizing the risks associated with surgical procedures.
Key benefits include:
- Significant weight loss in a minimally invasive manner
- No external incisions, resulting in faster recovery
- Reduced risk of complications compared to surgical sleeve gastrectomy
- Early satiety and decreased caloric intake due to stomach volume reduction
- Improvement in obesity-related comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia
- Shorter hospital stay and minimal downtime
- Option to combine with lifestyle modification programs for enhanced results
Ideal Candidates
ESG is suitable for patients who:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30–40
- Prefer a non-surgical weight loss option
- Have not achieved sufficient results with diet, exercise, or medical therapy
- Are motivated to follow post-procedure dietary and lifestyle guidance
- Seek a safe and reversible procedure with minimal risk
Korean hospitals provide comprehensive pre-procedure assessment and international patient support.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although considered safe, ESG carries potential risks:
- Nausea or vomiting in the early post-procedure period
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Minor bleeding at the suture sites
- Rare risks include infection, gastric perforation, or suture failure
- Temporary dietary intolerance during the initial recovery phase
Structured monitoring and post-procedure care in Korea minimize risks and ensure patient safety.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals employ advanced endoscopic technologies for ESG, including:
- High-definition endoscopes for precise visualization
- Endoscopic suturing devices to create a sleeve-shaped stomach
- Real-time monitoring of gastric tissue integrity
- Pre- and post-procedure nutritional counseling and metabolic assessment
Pre-procedure preparation includes lab tests, imaging, and dietary planning, while post-procedure care emphasizes gradual diet progression and lifestyle modifications.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive review of medical history, BMI, and comorbidities.
- Pre-Procedure Preparation: Dietary counseling, lab tests, and patient education.
- Procedure: Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty performed under sedation, typically lasting 60–90 minutes.
- Hospital Stay: Usually outpatient or 1-day observation for monitoring and recovery.
- Post-Procedure Care: Gradual diet progression, follow-up visits to monitor weight, metabolic health, and adherence to lifestyle modifications.
International patients receive assistance with hospital admission, travel, and follow-up coordination.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery involves:
- Mild post-procedure discomfort managed with medications
- Gradual transition from liquids to soft foods and then solid diet within weeks
- Return to normal activities within 1–3 days
- Regular follow-ups to monitor weight, nutrient intake, and metabolic health
- Ongoing guidance on diet, exercise, and lifestyle to optimize results
Korean centers ensure structured care to maximize safety and long-term weight management.
Results & Longevity
Patients can expect:
- Average weight loss of 15–25% of total body weight within 6–12 months
- Improvement in obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia
- Enhanced energy levels, mobility, and overall quality of life
- Sustainable weight loss when combined with dietary and lifestyle modifications
Outcomes depend on patient compliance, individual health status, and follow-up engagement.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is recognized for its expertise in advanced endoscopic procedures, including ESG. Hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art endoscopic equipment, and physicians are highly experienced in minimally invasive weight loss treatments.
Medical tourists benefit from short waiting times, transparent pricing, multilingual support, and comprehensive pre- and post-procedure care. Korea’s focus on innovation, safety, and patient-centered programs makes it an ideal destination for ESG.
Cost Range
The cost of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty in Korea typically ranges from USD 5,000 to USD 9,000, depending on hospital, physician experience, and care package.
Korean hospitals offer high-quality, minimally invasive weight loss procedures at competitive rates for international patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Leading centers providing ESG include:
- Seoul National University Hospital Bariatric Center
- Samsung Medical Center Obesity Clinic
- Asan Medical Center Endoscopic Weight Loss Program
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Minimally Invasive Weight Loss Clinic
These clinics offer advanced endoscopic technology, structured follow-up, and dedicated support for international patients.
