Apollo OverStitch: Top 10 questions answered

Apollo OverStitch: Top 10 questions answered

The Apollo OverStitch, also known as endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, is a weight-loss procedure that helps overweight individuals lose excess fat. This procedure is getting more and more popular among patients as it doesn’t require any incisions. It lasts on average 1 to 2 hours and is performed by inserting an endoscope through the patient’s mouth and stitching together parts of their stomach to reduce its size and create a sleeve-like shape.

Just like any other weight-loss procedure, the Apollo OverStitch should be considered a ‘tool’ to support your journey towards a healthier lifestyle. Undergoing the procedure is just the first step: patients should change their eating habits as well as engage in a regular exercise routine. This new lifestyle will not just make the procedure successful but it will also improve your health overall!

In this article, we are going to answer some of the most common questions that patients have on the Apollo OverStitch procedure.

1. What is the Apollo OverStitch?

The Apollo OverStitch procedure reduces the size of your stomach so that you will feel full sooner and limit food intake. The procedure is performed endoscopically, so no incisions are made. The name comes from the suturing technology used for the procedure, which is the OverStitch™ Endoscopic Suturing System by producer Apollo Endosurgery. This is the technology used if you choose to undergo this procedure at KCM Clinic.

The procedure is originally known as endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG).

2. Am I a good candidate for the Apollo OverStitch?

We recommend the Apollo OverStitch procedure to individuals whose BMI is 27 (you can calculate your BMI here). As bariatric procedures are typically recommended to patients with a BMI of 32-35, the Apollo OverStitch can be a good option for patients who are at obesity stage I.

If you already had another bariatric procedure (e.g. gastric sleeve or gastric bypass), you may be eligible for the Apollo OverStitch if you need a revision. Typically, this happens when the stomach stretches out and the patient requires an additional procedure.

Moreover, the Apollo OverStitch may be recommended as the first step for obesity treatment if your BMI is 60. The procedure can be performed in order to lose some weight before undergoing a more invasive bariatric procedure. Going under the knife with fewer pounds on is much safer!

3. What is the difference between the Apollo OverStitch and sleeve gastrectomy?

While both procedures aim to reduce the size of your stomach, it is important to note that the procedures are fundamentally different: during a sleeve gastrectomy (or gastric sleeve), part of the stomach is removed; during an Apollo OverStitch the stomach is stitched together without being removed. A gastric sleeve is therefore more invasive and requires a hospital stay of around 3 days. Patients undergoing an Apollo OverStitch can typically leave the hospital on the same day or the next day. Recovery time will also be shorter.

Last but not least, gastric sleeve is an irreversible procedure. After an Apollo OverStitch, within a certain period of time, the surgeon can remove the stitches so that the stomach can go back to its original size.

4. What happens to the sutures inside the stomach?

The sutures used during an Apollo OverStitch are non-absorbable. This means that they are meant to stay permanently. With time, the stomach will heal and the stitches will become part of it while holding the newly-formed sleeve tight.

5. Is Apollo OverStitch reversible?

Yes, it is possible to reverse an Apollo OverStitch procedure. However, the procedure should be performed before the stomach walls have completely healed.

6. How much weight can you expect to lose after an Apollo OverStitch?

Recent data show that patients can lose approximately 20% of their body weight over 1.5-2 years after the procedure. It is crucial that the patient commits to drastic lifestyle changes throughout this time.

7. What are the side effects of an Apollo OverStitch?

Nausea and discomfort in the stomach area are the most common side effects. Many patients report feeling a ‘gas bubble’ in their stomach, but this typically subsides within 36 hours.

More serious and rare complications include bleeding, perforations or infections. You will be prescribed antibiotics to prevent this from happening.

8. Can I undergo an Apollo OverStitch if I already had another weight-loss surgery?

Generally speaking, yes, this is possible. This usually happens when a previous surgery has not worked as expected or the stomach needs additional resizing. In this case, this is known as revision surgery. However, we will have to assess eligibility for the procedure on an individual basis.

9. How do I know what weight-loss procedure is right for me?

Your current BMI might be a rough indication of what bariatric procedure best suits your needs, but it won’t be enough to determine whether you’re eligible or not. In order to make a proper assessment, we need to check your medical history and your current health overall. Contact us for a first consultation!

10. I already had the Apollo OverStitch. What can I do to ensure it’s successful?

Committing to drastically change your eating habits and starting a healthier lifestyle is fundamental. Undergoing the procedure is the start of a new, healthier life! You will feel full sooner because you’ll have a smaller stomach but avoid reaching the sensation of feeling really full. Try to feel what your body really needs. Portion plates for portion control are helpful to get you in the habit of eating just what you need. Chew thoroughly and eat slowly.

Moreover, exercise regularly and make it part of your routine. It will help you not only after the procedure but in the long run!