Bariatric Endoscopy
Bariatric endoscopy uses a thin flexible tube passed through the mouth to perform weight-loss procedures on the stomach without surgery or scars.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Bariatric endoscopy is a group of weight-loss procedures done through a thin, flexible tube (an endoscope) passed down the throat into the stomach — no cuts, stitches or scars are needed. Examples include gastric balloons, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty and other stomach-reducing techniques. Recovery is generally quicker than surgery, though results can be more modest.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Bariatric endoscopy encompasses minimally invasive procedures performed with flexible endoscopy under sedation, including intragastric balloons, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG), endoscopic gastric remodelling, transoral outlet reduction (TORe), duodenal mucosal resurfacing (DMR) and duodenal-jejunal bypass liners. These act on the stomach or proximal small bowel to restrict capacity, delay emptying or alter nutrient sensing. Published series report mean total weight loss of approximately 15–20% at 12–24 months for ESG, with lower complication rates than surgical procedures; patient selection depends on BMI, comorbidity burden and prior bariatric history.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Endoscopic procedures offer a middle ground between medication and surgery for patients who do not qualify for, or prefer to avoid, an operation. During a consultation at Accord Medical, Dr Joseph Wang can explain which options are genuinely available and appropriate in Singapore.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.