Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
in Washington, DC

Non-surgical Weight Loss with the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG).
Procedure time: 30–60 minutes
Average weight loss: ~ 20% of body weight within one year
Recovery time: ~ 2–3 days
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Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty

How Does the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty Work?

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is one of the safest and most advanced weight loss procedures that has been used by people across the world for more than a decade now. The procedure does not involve any incisions or cuts through the skin because it is done with the help of an endoscope and a special suturing device that is inserted into the stomach through the mouth. The ESG procedure is performed with the Apollo ESG Overstitch™ because it is the only device approved by the FDA for this purpose.

The ESG reduces the available space in the stomach to a smaller size without any scars or risks that are usually associated with surgery. Sutures are used to shrink the size of the stomach from the inside by 70–80%, leaving a small, tubular-shaped stomach. The smaller remaining stomach allows for less intake per meal, which results in early satiety or feeling full earlier. Not only that, it leads to slowed gastric emptying, meaning the stomach empties slower, and patients feel full longer in between meals. These all result in less food intake and successful weight loss.

ESG vs VSG

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty Vs. Bariatric Surgery

ESG

  • No hospital admission: the same-day procedures
  • No surgical incisions: the procedures are completed through the mouth
  • No scars
  • Fast recovery & fewer complications
  • No permanent anatomy changes
  • No lifelong supplementations needed

Bariatric Surgery

  • Patient must be admitted to a hospital
  • Undergoes surgery including incisions that take time to heal
  • Increased risk of complications
  • 1-5 days of hospitalization
  • Permanent surgical anatomy change
  • Lifelong supplementations needed

Before and After: ESG Patients

ESG stomach tightening®

A non-surgical, minimally invasive, reversible procedure to significantly reduce your stomach size and help you lose weight.

$12,995/total
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  • ESG Stomach Tightening®
  • Smart scale
  • Pre-procedure blood work
  • Post-procedure IV fluid therapy
  • Dietitian consultations
  • 12-month follow-up with your care team
  • Unlimited messaging with your care team
  • Medications not included

Financing Options

We offer financing through CareCredit and Cherry to help make non-surgical weight loss procedures more accessible. Explore the available options and choose what works best for you.

Meet Dr. Janese Laster-Butler

Dr. Janese Laster-Butler is a highly qualified specialist, certified in internal medicine, gastroenterology, obesity medicine, and nutrition. As a leading weight loss expert based in Washington, DC—and one of only two providers within 25 miles offering endoscopic weight loss procedures—she offers gastric balloon treatments and develops personalized plans tailored to each patient. She is dedicated to helping patients achieve their weight loss goals and improve their quality of life.
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Dr. Janese Laster-Butler

Testimonials

I am incredibly grateful for the care and expertise of Dr. Janese Laster at Gut Theory Health. Through her intentional, thoughtful approach and deep knowledge, she has helped me lose weight, get off blood pressure medication, and feel healthier and more confident than I have in a long time.

Dr. Laster is not only highly skilled, but also incredibly personable and truly invested in her patients and their outcomes. You can feel that she genuinely cares, listens, and tailors her guidance to support lasting, real-life change. I highly recommend her to anyone looking to improve their health with a physician who combines expertise with compassion.

N.K.

Honestly, could not ask for better care. Dr. Laster and her team are knowledgeable, warm, caring, and genuinely invested helping their patients become healthier versions of themselves. I came in with lots of questions and preconceived notions about weight loss, weight-loss medication and weight loss procedures. Dr. Laster answered every one of my questions and then some, but also empowered me throughout the process. This isn’t a quick fix, it’s not the easy way out, but truly a lifestyle change, as I have been equipped with the tools to become the healthiest version of myself.

R.H.

Gut Theory has changed my life!

I cannot recommend Dr. Laster and her team enough, especially Ms. Lucretia! Before my first consultation, I didn’t even know weight loss specialist doctor’s existed, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. From the moment my appointment began, I felt completely at ease. Dr. Laster took the time to really listen to me—my goals, struggles, likes, dislikes, and even my concerns. It was clear from the start that her approach is truly individualized, designed to meet each patient’s unique needs…

E.T.
I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Laster during a challenging time with chronic illness (Crohn’s) and weight management. Upon meeting with Dr. Laster, I shared my concerns and how I had been committed to tracking weight challenges and my diet. It was then that I knew that she was skilled at not only understanding her patient’s needs, but developing a plan of action that was comprehensive and individually based. She evaluated my medical history and connected with my current GI (who actually recommended Dr. Laster as she agreed with my weight concerns) to insure that we were all on the same page with how to proceed…
M.N.
I cannot express enough how amazing the ladies at GT are! When I first met them a few years ago, I was at my wit’s end, looking for one last attempt to lose weight. I walked into my appointment filled with negative thoughts and doubts. However, the team was incredibly patient and reassuring, emphasizing that my goals were achievable as long as I was willing to put in the effort. They promised to support me every step of the way, which was exactly what I needed to hear.
N.K.

FAQs

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure takes about 30 min – 1 hour. The recovery period is about 1 hour, and then patients are discharged home.

What is the recovery time?

Following the procedure, we expect some nausea and/or vomiting, bloating, mild abdominal pain, or cramping for the first 1-3 days. However, we provide medications to help with symptom relief. Patients may return to work within 1-2 days after the procedure.

Am I a Candidate for The ESG Weight Loss Procedure?

The endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is indicated for those with a BMI of 30–50 kg/m2 who have failed diet and weight loss efforts alone.

What Is Covered in The Total Cost of ESG with Gut Theory?

  • The ESG procedure
  • Anesthesia fees
  • Facility fees
  • One-year membership for ongoing weight management support follow-up

How Much Weight Loss Can I Expect?

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is one of the most effective non-surgical procedures for weight loss. On average, patients can lose about 20% of their total body weight over a year. Results for each person vary and can be greater or less depending on the individual’s motivation and willingness to stick to the doctor’s guidelines and recommendations. It is important to mention that to achieve the best results, the procedure must be accompanied by dietary changes and increased physical activity.

How easy is it to get to Gut Theory Total Digestive Care office?

Gut Theory Total Digestive Care office is located in Friendship Heights, right next to Friendship Heights Metro Station on the Red Line, making it easy to reach from many parts of Washington, DC, including Chevy Chase, Tenleytown, the American University area, and other Northwest DC neighborhoods.

Which Weight Loss Option Should I Choose?

A balanced comparison to guide your conversation with your care team. All four options require lifelong commitment to diet, lifestyle changes, and regular fitness.
Category Gut Essentials – Overhaul Gastric Balloon ESG (Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty) Gastric Sleeve Revision
Cost $350 – $475/mo
(6-month commitment)
$7,495
total
$12,995
total
$11,995
total
Invasiveness Non-invasive Minimally invasive (endoscopic) Minimally invasive (endoscopic, no incisions) Minimally invasive (endoscopic, no incisions)
Avg. Weight Loss 5 – 25%
of body weight (varies widely)
10 – 15%
of body weight
15 – 20%
of body weight
Additional 10 – 20%
on top of prior loss
Recovery Time None 2 – 3 days
(mild discomfort)
2 – 3 days off work 2 – 3 days off work
Reversible? Yes — stop anytime Yes — balloon removed at 6 months Technically yes; not routinely done Sutures, yes — not the initial surgery
Procedure Type Ongoing membership program Temporary
(6-month balloon)
Long-term durable results Long-term durable results
Key Pros
+ No procedure needed
+ Lowest entry cost
+ Flexible & reversible
+ Medication option avail.
+ Virtual wellness incl.
+ No surgery required
+ Reversible option
+ Jumpstarts habits
+ 12-mo follow-up incl.
+ No incisions
+ Greater weight loss
+ Durable long-term results
+ No hospital stay
+ Full care team incl.
+ Addresses sleeve failure
+ Significant add’l loss
+ Treats complications
+ Established approach
+ Full care team incl.
Key Cons
– Depends on adherence
– Slower weight loss
– Balloon removed @ 6 mo
– Nausea common early
– Weight regain possible
– Medications not incl.
– Highest upfront cost
– General anesthesia req.
– Post-op diet restrictions
– Medications not incl.
– General anesthesia req.
– Post-op diet restrictions
– Medications not incl.
This comparison is for educational purposes only. Individual outcomes vary. Results depend on adherence to the full treatment plan. Please consult your care team for personalized guidance.

Our Location

ESG consultations are available at our Friendship Heights office near Friendship Heights Metro on the Red Line, near Chevy Chase, Tenleytown, Wakefield, the American University area, Bethesda, Westgate, and Northwest DC areas.
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