Find a centre near you​ Find a Specialist
Skip to main content
Esg patient banner

Life after ESG: What to expect

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is an effective procedure for weight management, but long-term success also depends on the choices you make every day. Eating well, staying active, and following your doctor’s advice can help you keep the weight off and feel your best. 

See how ESG helped Joanna get her weight on track and regain her confidence and quality of life

Talk to a doctor about ESG today

Results from case studies are not necessarily predictive of results in other cases. Results in other cases may vary. 

Eating and drinking after ESG

Eating after ESG

Because Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty reduces the capacity of your stomach without surgery, most people can return to routine daily activities within a few days _ and start to notice weight loss soon after. With your stomach now smaller, you'll feel full more quickly and need smaller portions. This is a time to build new habits and embrace lifestyle changes that support your long-term health.

After your procedure, you'll need to follow your doctor's guidance on what to eat and drink. Their advice is likely to include: 

  • Following a specific diet for the first few weeks
  • Eating small, regular meals
  • Chewing slowly and carefully1

Eating a balanced diet will support your long-term health. Learn more about getting the right nutrition after a weight loss procedure. 

Drinking alcohol after ESG

It's best to avoid alcohol for at least the first six weeks, or longer if your doctor advises. After ESG, your body may handle alcohol differently, and drinking can add calories without providing the nutrients you need.2-4

Staying mindful of alcohol while your body adjusts can help you make the most of your weight loss journey. If you have questions about when it's safe to start drinking again, your healthcare team can provide personalised guidance. 

Preventing malnutrition

After ESG, your body may absorb vitamins and minerals differently, so taking steps to prevent deficiencies is important. Follow your doctor's recommendations to ensure your nutrition stays on track. 

To support your health:

  • Follow dietary guidance. Aim for balanced, nutrient-rich meals that meet your body's needs. See more advice on how to eat after your procedure. 
  • Keep up with regular blood tests. Routine checks allow your healthcare team to monitor your vitamin and mineral levels and make adjustments if needed.1

Healthy habits to support weight loss

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty can help you start losing weight, but lasting results come from the habits you build along the way. Focusing on balanced meals, realistic goals, and small, consistent changes can make a big difference over time. 

Pay attention to how your body feels after meals, and adjust your routine as needed. With time, these small changes will become habits that support your long-term success.

Stay active

Being active benefits your health in many ways: it supports weight loss, boosts mood, strengthens muscles, and lowers the risk of conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers.4

Start gently after your procedure, following your doctor's guidance, and gradually increase the intensity as your body heals to protect muscle and aid recovery.1

Over time, aim for around 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity each day - enough to raise your heart rate, get you breathing a little faster, and make your body feel warm.4-6 

Talk with your doctor about gradually increasing your activity and finding a routine that works for you and fits your lifestyle.

Practice mindful eating

Mindful eating encourages you to pay attention not just to what you eat, but how you eat it. This awareness can help you stay connected to your body's signals and avoid habits that might lead to weight regain.

Engage all your senses while you eat. Notice the taste, texture, and smell of your food. Take your time, minimise distractions, and give yourself space to enjoy each meal fully.7

Look after your mental health

Your emotional wellbeing matters just as much as your physical recovery. Adjusting to changes in eating, body shape, and daily routines can be challenging, and it's normal to feel anxious or uncertain at times.8,9

You don't have to face it alone. Talk to your doctor if you're struggling _ they can connect you with support and resources. Leaning on friends, family, or support groups can also help you feel understood and stay motivated throughout your journey. 

Learn more about the links between obesity and mental health.

Travelling after ESG

If you're planning to travel after your ESG procedure, it's a good idea to discuss your plans with your doctor first. They can give advice tailored to your recovery and help you prepare for the journey.
 

Here are a few tips to make travelling easier:

  • Watch portion sizes. Restaurant servings can be larger than you need.10 Ask for a smaller portion or take some home to enjoy later. 
  • Stay hydrated. Carry a water bottle so you can drink regularly throughout the day. 
  • Keep moving. Incorporate physical activity whenever possible. Walking or exploring at a comfortable, brisk pace is a simple way to stay active.5

ESG and other conditions

Discuss any ongoing health concerns with your doctor so your weight management plan fits with your overall care. Regular check-ins allow your healthcare team to monitor progress, adjust medications if needed, and continue to support your long term health.

Learn more about how obesity affects your health.

Staying motivated

Starting your ESG journey is an exciting step toward weight management. While it can feel overwhelming at first, focusing on small, consistent changes can help you build lasting habits and see meaningful results over time.

Here are some ways to stay on track: 

Follow your aftercare plan

Attending appointments and following your doctor's guidance helps your body recover safely and sets you up for long-term success.4

Be gentle with yourself

Adjusting to new eating habits and seeing results takes time. Everyone's path is different, and it's okay to move at your own pace.11

Celebrate every win

Pay attention to improvements not just on the scales, but in your energy, mood, or how your clothes fit. Keeping a journal or using an app can help you see how far you've come.4 

Reach out when you need support

If worries or setbacks arise, talking to your healthcare team, friends, or support groups can provide reassurance and help you stay on course.

Remember, ESG is the beginning of your journey, not the finish line. With patience, consistency, and support, you can build habits that help you feel your best every day.

Ready to get your fresh start with Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?

Find a doctor
Top of page

About the ESG Procedure

Patients who have an ESG must also pursue certain lifestyle modifications, such as changes to diet and exercise, in order to achieve desired results. All procedures have risks. Patients should talk with their doctor and understand all risks before having a procedure. Individual results of the ESG procedure will vary. 

References

  1. NHS. Recovering from weight loss surgery [Internet]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/weight-loss-surgery/recovering/ [Accessed 2026 August]. 
  2. Conason A, et al. Substance use following bariatric weight loss surgery. JAMA Surg. 2013;148(2):145–50. 
  3. Smith KE, et al. Problematic alcohol use and associated characteristics following bariatric surgery. Obes Surg. 2018;28(5):1248-54. 
  4. McGrice M, et al. Interventions to improve long term weight loss in patients following bariatric surgery: challenges and solutions. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes. 2015;8:263-74. 
  5. NHS. Physical activity guidelines for adults aged 19 to 64 [Internet]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/physical-activity-guidelines-for-adults-aged-19-to-64/ [Accessed 2026 August]. 
  6. NHS. Physical activity guidelines for older adults [Internet]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/physical-activity-guidelines-older-adults/ [Accessed 2026 August]. 
  7. NHS North Tees and Hartlepool. Long Term Management Following Bariatric Surgery [Internet]. 2025. Available from: https://www.nth.nhs.uk/resources/long-term-management-following-bariatric-surgery/ [Accessed 2026 August]. 
  8. Jones RA, et al. The impact of adult behavioural weight management interventions on mental health: a systematic review and meta analysis. Obes Rev. 2021;22(4):e13150. 
  9. NHS Wales. Weight Management & Mental Health [Internet]. 2025. Available from: https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/docs/default-source/improving-care/pmhic/dyfodol-weight-management-mental-health---a-framework-for-action-in-wales-2025.pdf?sfvrsn=8025eaa2_3 [Accessed 2026 August]. 
  10. Afshar S, et al. Food portion sizes before and after bariatric surgery. Proc Nutr Soc. 2015;74(OCE5):E355. 
  11. Li N, et al. Experiences and expectations of patients with obesity 3 months after metabolic and bariatric surgery: a qualitative study. BMJ Open. 2025;15(3):e091390. 

 

CAUTION: The law restricts these devices to sale by or on the order of a physician. Indications, contraindications, warnings and instructions for use can be found at IFU-BSCI.com. Products shown for INFORMATION purposes only and may not be approved or for sale in certain countries. This material is not intended for use in France. 

Content of this material is for Information Purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Boston Scientific strongly recommends that you consult with your physician on all matters pertaining to your health or to address any questions. There are risks associated with all medical procedures. Please talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits associated. 

All images owned by Boston Scientific.