Stomach Botox Procedure

Stomach Botox is an endoscopic procedure applied to support the weight loss process. In this method, botulinum toxin (Botox) is injected into the stomach muscles. Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin that temporarily relaxes muscles. When applied to the stomach, it aims to reduce the frequency and strength of stomach muscle contractions, thereby delaying gastric emptying time. This helps individuals feel full for a longer time and consequently eat less. Although stomach Botox is not a surgical procedure, it can be considered part of a weight management program and is usually applied together with diet and lifestyle changes.

In Which Situations Is Stomach Botox Performed?

Stomach Botox may be an option primarily for individuals who want to lose weight and are struggling with obesity. Some conditions where this procedure may be applied include:

• Overweight or obese individuals: Those with a body mass index (BMI) within a certain range who want support in their weight loss journey.
• Those unable to lose weight despite diet and exercise: Individuals who cannot achieve sufficient weight loss despite healthy eating and regular physical activity may benefit from stomach Botox to initiate weight loss.
• Those who want to lose weight before surgery: Some individuals who want to reduce risks or prepare for obesity surgery may use stomach Botox as a preoperative weight loss support.
• Individuals with obesity-related health problems: People with health conditions related to obesity (e.g., mild type 2 diabetes, hypertension) who want to help control these issues through weight loss.

Stomach Botox is not suitable for everyone. A detailed medical evaluation by a doctor is necessary before the procedure to consider the individual’s health status, expectations, and other treatment options.

How Is Stomach Botox Applied?

The stomach Botox procedure is usually performed in an endoscopy unit, often under mild sedation. No surgical incisions are made. The general steps are as follows:

• Preparation: The patient is instructed to fast for a certain period before the procedure. Intravenous access may be established for sedation.
• Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera and light (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth, passing down the esophagus to the stomach.
• Stomach Inspection: The inside lining of the stomach is thoroughly examined via endoscope for any abnormalities.
• Injection of Botulinum Toxin: Using a special needle, botulinum toxin is injected into specific muscle areas of the stomach. Injection sites and doses are determined by the doctor, typically targeting the fundus (upper) and antrum (lower) parts of the stomach.
• Removal of the Endoscope: After injections, the endoscope is carefully withdrawn.

The procedure generally lasts 15-20 minutes, and the patient can usually be discharged shortly afterward. Mild discomfort or bloating may be experienced after the procedure.

How Long Is the Recovery After Stomach Botox?

Since stomach Botox is an endoscopic procedure, the recovery time is generally short. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few hours after the procedure. Mild side effects such as abdominal pain, nausea, or bloating may occur during the first few days but usually resolve on their own without special treatment. Pain relievers or stomach soothing medications may be prescribed by the doctor. Patients are generally allowed to resume normal eating the day after the procedure but should follow any specific instructions given by their doctor. Rather than a strict “recovery period,” the body typically adapts to the treatment over several days.

How Should Nutrition Be After Stomach Botox?

The success of stomach Botox closely relates to adopting and maintaining proper eating habits after the procedure. Stomach Botox alone does not cause weight loss but helps individuals eat fewer calories by prolonging the feeling of fullness. Important dietary recommendations after the procedure include:

• Light start: Eat liquids and soft foods during the first few days after the procedure to avoid stomach irritation.
• Small, frequent meals: Because gastric emptying is delayed, eating smaller portions more often prevents discomfort and promotes fullness.
• Healthy food choices: Avoid fatty, sugary, and processed foods; focus on protein, fiber, and vitamin-rich foods to support weight loss.
• Eat slowly and chew well: Slow eating and thorough chewing aid digestion and improve satiety signals.
• Adequate fluid intake: Drink enough water daily to support metabolism and overall health.
• Dietitian support: Personalized meal plans and follow-up by a dietitian increase the effectiveness of stomach Botox and help develop healthy eating habits.

Since the effect of stomach Botox is temporary (usually lasting 4-6 months), it is important to establish lasting healthy nutrition habits during this period.

What Are the Characteristics of Stomach Botox?

Key features of stomach Botox include:

• Minimally invasive: It is an endoscopic method that does not require surgical incisions, leading to shorter recovery time and no scars.
• Temporary effect: The effect of botulinum toxin lasts about 4-6 months. During this time, the goal is to achieve weight loss and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
• Repeatable: If deemed appropriate by the doctor, stomach Botox can be repeated at certain intervals.
• Weight loss support: By delaying stomach emptying, it increases satiety and helps reduce food intake, supporting weight loss.
• Personalized application: Injection points and doses are tailored according to the patient’s condition and doctor’s evaluation.
• Effective with diet and lifestyle changes: Best results are obtained when stomach Botox is combined with healthy eating and regular exercise.

Stomach Botox should be considered a tool in the weight loss journey and supported by lifestyle changes for lasting results.

All content on this site is for informational purposes only and is based on scientific sources valid at the time of preparation. For any health symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment needs, please consult your doctor or authorized health institution directly.