Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) — Safe, Minimally Invasive Weight Loss in Istanbul
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) for Australian and New Zealand patients at Istanbul Bariatric Center. Minimally invasive stomach reduction without surgery. JCI-accredited hospital. Dr. Murat Üstün. Procedure $7,500 USD or all-inclusive $8,500 USD with VIP transfers, 4-star hotel, and 12-month dietitian support via telehealth. Flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland.
How ESG Works
ESG reduces the stomach's capacity through a non-surgical, endoscopic procedure, allowing patients to feel full faster and consume less food. A flexible endoscope is passed through the mouth, and internal sutures reduce stomach volume by 70–80%. Unlike traditional sleeve gastrectomy, no tissue is removed and the procedure is potentially reversible. Published clinical data demonstrates 15–20% total body weight loss within 6–12 months, with durable results at 2–5 year follow-up. The procedure takes approximately 60–90 minutes under conscious sedation.
Why ANZ Patients Choose ESG Abroad
Limited Access Locally
ESG is not widely available in Australia or New Zealand. Private clinics often charge $15,000–$25,000 AUD/NZD, and public access is limited with long waitlists that can stretch to 12+ months.
Affordable, Transparent Packages
Our all-inclusive package is $8,500 USD (~$13,000 AUD / ~$14,200 NZD) — significantly less than ANZ private clinics, even after accounting for flights. Procedure-only option at $7,500 USD (~$11,500 AUD / ~$12,500 NZD).
Internationally Accredited Care
JCI-accredited hospitals in Istanbul. Experienced ESG specialists with thousands of procedures. Turkey is the world's 4th-largest medical tourism destination with over 1.2 million international patients annually.
ESG vs Weight Loss Medications
Factor
Medications
ESG
Effectiveness
Limited — significant weight regain after stopping
Sustainable at 2–5 year follow-up
Side effects
Common (nausea, diarrhoea, pancreatitis risk)
Mild and rare (1–3 days)
Cost
Ongoing: $200–$400+/month AUD
One-time $8,500 USD
Treatment type
Weekly injections indefinitely
Single endoscopic procedure
ESG vs Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Feature
ESG
Gastric Sleeve
Invasiveness
Minimal
High
Recovery
1–3 days
2–4 weeks
Scarring
None
4–5 small scars
Complications
<1% serious
1–3% serious
Weight loss
15–20% body weight
60–70% excess weight
ANZ cost
$15,000–$25,000 AUD (ANZ) / $8,500 USD (Istanbul)
$15,000–$35,000 AUD
Why Istanbul Bariatric Center
Experienced team — Dr. Murat Üstün, pioneer of ESG in Turkey with thousands of successful procedures
JCI-accredited hospital — Liv Hospital, the gold standard for healthcare quality worldwide
Full international support — Pre-travel consultation, VIP transfers, English-speaking coordinators, telehealth compatible with AEST/NZST
Modern facilities — Cutting-edge endoscopic units, comprehensive infection control protocols
Treatment Process for ANZ Patients
Initial online consultation — medical team review within 24–48 hours
Travel to Istanbul — flights from Sydney (~18h), Melbourne (~19h), Auckland (~22h) via Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines
VIP transfer from Istanbul Airport (IST) to 4-star hotel
ESG procedure (60–90 minutes, conscious sedation, no incisions)
Recovery and return home within 3–4 nights, telehealth follow-up compatible with AEST/NZST
Expected Results
Based on published clinical data: 15–20% total body weight loss within 6–12 months. Improved metabolic health markers including blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure. Increased energy, mobility, and overall quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I feel pain during ESG?
Sedation ensures comfort; mild bloating or cramping is possible for 1–3 days.
How long in Istanbul?
Usually 3–4 nights, including procedure and recovery.
Are results sustainable?
Yes. Published studies show durable 15–20% weight loss at 2–5 year follow-up with dietary adherence.
Is ESG available in Australia/NZ?
Not widely. Private clinics charge $15,000–$25,000 AUD/NZD. Public access is very limited.
ESG vs Ozempic?
ESG is a one-time structural solution. Medications cost $200–$400+/month AUD with weight regain after stopping.
What BMI qualifies?
BMI 30–40.
Is Turkey safe?
JCI-accredited Liv Hospital — gold standard for patient safety worldwide. Turkey is the world's 4th-largest medical tourism destination.
What's included?
Procedure, JCI hospital, labs, VIP transfers, 4-star hotel, medications, 12-month dietitian support via telehealth.