The butterfly gastric bypass procedure advantages complications and weight loss rate

Are you struggling with excess weight and looking for a safe and effective solution without surgery? The Gastric Butterfly Procedure is one of the latest non-surgical methods to reduce stomach size. It helps you feel full faster and promotes gradual weight loss. article, we’ll cover the procedure’s benefits, possible complications, and top tips for achieving safe and fast results. Whether you want to know if the gastric butterfly is right for you or are interested in tracking your weight loss progress after the procedure, you’ll find all the essential details here.

1. Why It’s Called the Gastric Butterfly

The Gastric Butterfly procedure involves dividing the stomach into two parts using surgical staples:

Upper part (stomach pouch): Responsible for digesting food and making you feel full quickly.
Lower part: Allows food to continue its natural path through the intestines.

It’s called the “butterfly” because after stapling, the stomach takes the shape of a butterfly, hourglass, or tied bow.

2. Is the Gastric Butterfly Painful?

The procedure itself is not painful.
You might feel mild cramps or nausea during the first 1–2 days.
Most symptoms disappear quickly with simple painkillers.

3. Procedure Duration

The procedure is very short, usually 10–30 minutes depending on the method (capsule or endoscopy).
No major surgery or general anesthesia is required, making it ideal for people afraid of traditional surgeries.

4. Who Is Eligible for the Procedure?

People with mild to moderate overweight (BMI 27–35).
Committed to following a healthy diet after the procedure.
No serious stomach issues like active ulcers or a major history of stomach surgery.

5. When Do Results Appear?

Feeling full starts from the first week.
Weight loss begins from the second week.
Best results appear after 2–6 months, depending on adherence to diet and lifestyle changes.

6. Are the Results Permanent?

If the gastric butterfly is temporary, results last 6–12 months.
Following a healthy diet and exercise after removal helps maintain weight loss.

7. Can the Butterfly Be Removed?

Yes, most gastric butterflies are temporary and can be easily removed via endoscopy without surgery.
This makes the procedure safe and flexible according to your needs.

8. Is Pregnancy Safe After the Procedure?

The procedure is safe for women planning pregnancy after consulting the doctor.
It’s recommended to delay pregnancy until weight stabilizes and results are maintained.

9. Are There Serious Complications?

Serious complications are very rare.
Possible minor issues include mild cramps, nausea, or acidity.
Most cases resolve quickly without medical intervention.

10. Can I Exercise After the Procedure?

Yes, light walking can start a few days after the procedure.
Simple exercise helps boost weight loss and maintain results.

Who Is a Good Candidate for the Gastric Butterfly?

People with mild to moderate overweight
- BMI between 27–35
- Mild obesity or moderate weight gain
- Those who cannot lose weight through diet and exercise alone
  ✅ The gastric butterfly is ideal here because it’s non-surgical and temporary.

2. People with Mild Obesity Looking for a Quick Solution

Do you have health issues due to your weight, like high blood pressure or diabetes, but your weight isn’t very high?
✅ The Gastric Butterfly helps reduce appetite and gradually lose weight without major surgery.

3. People Afraid of Surgery

The procedure is non-surgical—no incisions or general anesthesia.
Recovery time is very short.
✅ Ideal for people who are afraid of gastric sleeve or bypass surgeries.

4. People Mentally and Nutritionally Ready

The ideal candidate is committed to a healthy diet.
Ready to change their lifestyle.
Realistic expectations for gradual weight loss rather than rapid results.

5. People with Mild Stomach Issues

Those with mild reflux or sensitive stomachs may undergo the butterfly after doctor evaluation.
❌ Not suitable for patients with active ulcers or a significant history of stomach surgery.

6. People Seeking a Temporary Solution to Maintain Weight

If the goal is quick weight loss without permanent surgery:
✅ A temporary gastric butterfly is an excellent option until the target weight is reached.

⭐ Advantages of the Gastric Butterfly Procedure

Simple and Non-Surgical

The procedure is modern, non-surgical, and requires no general anesthesia, making it perfect for those afraid of major surgeries like gastric sleeve.

Safe and Suitable for Many People

Being non-surgical makes the risk very low.
Ideal for people whose weight doesn’t reduce with diet or exercise alone.

Very Short Recovery Time

Patients can return to normal life quickly.
No large incisions or severe pain like traditional surgeries.

Significantly Reduces Appetite

Limits the amount of food the stomach can hold, helping you feel full faster and reduce daily calorie intake.

Gradual and Safe Weight Loss

Results appear over the first few months, and weight loss is gradual, which is healthier for the body long-term.

Easily Removable if Needed

Can be removed easily without surgery, unlike permanent procedures that permanently alter the stomach.

Lower Cost than Bariatric Surgeries

Generally cheaper than gastric sleeve or bypass surgeries, making it a middle ground between diet and surgery.

Suitable for Moderate Weight

Can be done for people with moderate weight who don’t need major surgical intervention.

Types of Gastric Butterfly Procedures

All types reduce stomach volume without surgery, but they differ in shape, fixation method, and duration:

1. Temporary Butterfly

Concept: A butterfly device is placed inside the stomach to reduce capacity and is removed after 6–12 months.
Advantages: Non-surgical, removable, suitable for moderate weight or temporary solution.
Disadvantages: Effects are temporary, requires strong compliance after removal.

2. Permanent Butterfly Device

Concept: The device is fixed for a long period and is only removed if the patient requests or complications occur.
Advantages: Longer-lasting results, helps maintain weight for a long time.
Disadvantages: Requires ongoing monitoring, may cause discomfort over time.

3. Endoscopic Butterfly

Concept: Stomach reduction using the butterfly device via endoscopy instead of swallowing.
Advantages: Higher precision, stronger fixation, better weight loss.
Disadvantages: More expensive, requires a specialized endoscopist.

4. Soft (Rubber) Butterfly Device

Concept: Made of soft, flexible materials, reduces stomach volume without strong pressure.
Advantages: More comfortable, fewer side effects.
Disadvantages: Weight loss may be slightly slower.

5. XL Butterfly for Higher Weight Categories

Concept: A larger-sized butterfly to more effectively reduce stomach capacity, designed for those with higher-than-average weight but not suitable for gastric sleeve candidates.

Stages of the Gastric Butterfly Procedure

1. Initial Assessment and Tests

Before the procedure, the doctor performs:

Full physical examination
Blood tests
Sometimes ultrasound or endoscopy if needed
✅ This ensures the procedure is safe and suitable for your condition.

2. Patient Preparation

6–8 hours before the procedure:
- No food or drink
- Doctor gives instructions about the procedure
- Medications may be prescribed for reflux or stomach issues

3. Inserting the Butterfly Device

The procedure can be done in two ways depending on the butterfly type:

a) Swallowing the Capsule

The patient swallows a small capsule containing the butterfly device.
It reaches the stomach and opens automatically.
Duration: 10–15 minutes

b) Endoscopic Method

The doctor inserts an endoscope through the mouth.
The device is accurately fixed inside the stomach.
✅ In all cases: no incisions or general anesthesia

4. Opening the Butterfly Inside the Stomach

Once in place, the butterfly opens automatically and reduces stomach volume.
Feeling of fullness occurs faster.

5. Post-Procedure Follow-Up

Patients can walk after 2 hours and go home.
Initial symptoms may include:
- Mild nausea
- Slight abdominal discomfort
  ✅ Most symptoms disappear within a few days.

6. Weight Loss Phase

Starts in the first 2 weeks:
- Appetite reduction
- Faster feeling of fullness
- Gradual weight loss over 3–6 months
The doctor provides a diet plan for optimal results.

7. Regular Follow-Up

Monthly or as per doctor’s instructions:
- Check the device
- Track weight
- Adjust diet if needed

8. Removing the Butterfly (if temporary)

After 6–12 months, the device can be removed via endoscopy.
Follow-up ensures weight maintenance after removal.

Timeline for Results

First Week:

No significant weight loss yet.
Appetite slightly reduced, fullness occurs faster.

Week 2 to 1 Month:

Real weight loss begins: 2–4 kg per month, depending on diet adherence.

2–3 Months:

Noticeable weight loss and body measurements change.
Approximate loss: 4–6 kg per month with high compliance.

3–6 Months:

Peak results: most patients lose 40–60% of excess weight.
Appetite is very low, fullness occurs quickly.

After 6 Months:

Weight loss slows down naturally.
Measurements continue improving with healthy diet and exercise.

Pre-Procedure Assessment

Weight & BMI Assessment

Suitable for BMI 27–35 (mild to moderate obesity).
Not suitable for severe obesity.

Medical History
Doctor evaluates:

Stomach or colon conditions
Acid reflux
Past ulcers or infections
Previous stomach surgeries
Regular medications
✅ Ensures the device can be safely placed.

Clinical Examination

Full abdominal exam and basic body function check
Identify any contraindications

Required Tests

Complete blood count
Liver & kidney function tests
Fasting glucose
Hormonal tests if necessary

Stomach Examination

Ultrasound or diagnostic endoscopy if severe reflux or previous stomach issues exist

Psychological & Commitment Assessment

Success depends on dietary and lifestyle compliance.
Doctor evaluates:
- Patient readiness for lifestyle change
- Realistic expectations

Final Doctor Decision

Suitable for butterfly ✅
Not suitable ❌ (alternative: balloon, sleeve, or medical diet)

Disadvantages of the Gastric Butterfly

Limited long-term studies
Technically demanding, requires precision
Slightly higher risk of leakage if not placed correctly
More expensive than traditional sleeve
Not available in all centers
May not suit severe reflux or esophageal issues
Slower weight loss for severe obesity or low compliance
Post-procedure imaging can be challenging
Weight may return long-term if diet not followed
Difficult to adjust or repair if failed

Solutions if the Gastric Butterfly Fails

Lifestyle Modification

Calorie-controlled diet
Meal timing regulation
Treat reflux or bloating
Light daily exercise

Adjusting or Replacing the Butterfly

Change size, reposition, or replace with a more suitable device via endoscopy

Gastric Balloon

Non-surgical, gives stronger fullness for 6 months, better for higher BMI

Gastric Botox

Injecting stomach muscles to reduce movement, prolonging fullness

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)

Non-surgical stomach tightening
Results similar to sleeve gastrectomy

Surgical Sleeve Gastrectomy

Suitable for severe obesity or failed prior procedures

Psychological and Nutritional Support

Nutritionist or therapist support prevents emotional eating and appetite disorders

Diet After Gastric Butterfly

Phase 1: First 2 Days

Only liquids: water, light tea, warm herbal drinks, clear soups, diluted juices
Avoid: coffee, soda, acidic juices, solid foods

Phase 2: Day 3 to End of Week 1

Full liquids + semi-soft foods: mashed vegetables, light yogurt, mashed potatoes, light jelly, diluted natural juice
Avoid: heavy foods, fried items, bread, pasta, meats

Phase 3: Week 2 – Soft Diet

Easy-to-chew foods: minced chicken, grilled fish, boiled eggs, cottage cheese, cooked vegetables, soft fruits
Rules: small portions, chew slowly, avoid eating 2 hours before bed

Phase 4: After 2 Weeks – Gradual Normal Diet

Boiled or grilled foods, low-fat, small portions
Excellent options: lean grilled meats, cooked vegetables, simple beans, light salads, oats, boiled rice
Avoid: fried food, sweets, soda, fast food, drinking large amounts during meals, coffee during first 2 weeks

Water Intake:

1.5–2 liters per day in small sips
Avoid drinking large amounts at once

Tips for Success

Use a very small plate
Chew food thoroughly
Do not drink during meals
Stop eating when full
Walk 20–30 minutes daily

Myths About the Gastric Butterfly

“It melts fat by itself” → False. It reduces appetite, weight loss comes from eating less.
“Results like gastric sleeve” → False. Sleeve is surgical and permanent; butterfly is temporary and non-surgical.
“No diet needed” → False. Following a diet is essential.
“It stays in the stomach forever” → Most are temporary (6–12 months). Permanent types are rare.
“Causes ulcers or holes” → Very safe. Only mild nausea or discomfort may occur for a few days.
“Suitable for any weight” → False. Only for BMI 27–35.
“Surgically implanted” → False. Non-surgical via swallowing capsule or endoscopy.
“No solution if it fails” → False. Options include gastric balloon, Botox, ESG, or sleeve gastrectomy.
“Causes severe weakness or wasting” → Only if protein intake is inadequate. With a proper diet, weight loss occurs safely.
“Can move inside the stomach easily” → Rare; device is designed to stay in place and can be corrected endoscopically if needed.