Gastric Botox

About Gastric Botox

In gastric botox, botulinum toxin is injected into the muscle of the stomach wall during an endoscopy. The aim is to slow how quickly the stomach empties and reduce hunger for a period of a few months, as a support to diet and lifestyle changes.

The evidence for gastric botox is limited and studies have shown mixed results, with weight loss that is usually small and temporary. Its use for weight loss is off-label in many countries. It is not a substitute for bariatric surgery when surgery is medically indicated.

Who it may be suitable for

• Mild excess weight, where a short-term aid alongside diet is being considered
• Understanding that the evidence is limited and the effect is modest and temporary
• No neuromuscular condition such as myasthenia gravis, and not pregnant or breastfeeding
• Willingness to follow a structured eating plan

These are general points only. Whether a procedure is suitable for you is decided by the treating surgeon and team after reviewing your medical history, tests and an in-person assessment, not from weight or BMI alone.

How it works

1. 01

   Medical review

   You share your height, weight, medical conditions, medication, previous operations and recent blood tests. The team decides whether an assessment is appropriate and what else is needed before you travel.

2. 02

   Assessment in Istanbul

   You meet the surgeon and anaesthetist and have blood tests and other checks, often including an ultrasound or endoscopy. A dietitian explains the eating plan, and the procedure is confirmed only if it is still appropriate.

3. 03

   Endoscopy

   Under sedation, an endoscope is passed through the mouth into the stomach and the toxin is injected at several points in the stomach wall.

4. 04

   Discharge and follow-up

   You leave with written diet and medication instructions. Follow-up with the clinic’s dietitian and regular blood tests continue remotely and with your own doctor at home.

What recovery usually looks like

1. Same day

   You rest for a few hours while the sedation wears off, and should not drive or sign important documents that day. A sore throat is common.

2. First week

   Mild indigestion or bloating can occur. You start the eating plan provided by the dietitian.

3. Months 1–6

   Any effect on appetite usually appears within a couple of weeks and wears off over a few months.

Timelines vary between people. Always follow the aftercare instructions from your treating clinic.

Risks and considerations

• Results are uncertain; some people notice little change in appetite or weight.
• Sedation and endoscopy carry small risks, including reactions to sedation and, rarely, bleeding or perforation.
• Rarely, the toxin can cause weakness away from the injection site, such as difficulty swallowing, which needs urgent medical attention.
• Any weight lost is often regained once the effect wears off unless eating habits have changed.

Common questions