Endoscopic Procedures for Weight Loss

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health offers endoscopic options for weight loss, as an alternative to medication and weight loss surgery.  

Endoscopy is a procedure where a gastroenterologist uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera called an endoscope to access your digestive system. This minimally invasive procedure allows the gastroenterologist to adjust inside the digestive tract to help you lose weight. 

The following endoscopic procedure is offered at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health: 

Gastric balloon is a noninvasive procedure that helps you eat less and feel fuller for longer due to a balloon placed into the stomach endoscopically. During the gastric balloon procedure, a soft balloon (about the size of a grapefruit) is inserted into your stomach through your mouth, using an endoscope. The balloon is then filled with saline to partially fill the stomach, allowing you to control your portion sizes more easily.

It is important to check the coverage of these procedures with your insurance carrier. Many insurance plans do not cover endoscopic weight loss procedures.