Los Angeles Endoscopy Center Gastroenterologist Dr. Paul M. Choi Now Performing ReShape Procedure

LOS ANGELES - Oct. 26, 2016 - PRLog -- Dr. Paul M. Choi, a board-certified gastroenterologist with the Los Angeles Endoscopy Center in the Los Angeles area, is now one of very few physicians in the U.S. providing a newly FDA-approved intragastric dual balloon procedure. Called the ReShape Integrated Dual Balloon System, the device consists of two connected balloons filled with saline. The balloons take up space in the stomach, which is thought to make people feel fuller faster, the FDA said in its announcement. The program consists of two parts, consisting of a non-surgical procedure and dietary counseling, designed for adults affected with obesity, specifically with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 to 40. In the news release by the FDA, the ReShape system was found to help people more than double their weight loss compared to those trying to lose weight through diet and exercise.

This device is currently only approved to be used for six months at a time, and is appropriate for those with mild to moderate obesity who have not been successful in achieving weight loss with traditional weight loss programs. The ReShape program, however, is unlikely to be appropriate for people who have a higher BMI who may be more appropriate for lap-band surgery, stomach stapling, or other forms of bariatric surgery, said Dr. Paul M. Choi, the Medical Director at the Los Angeles Endoscopy Center.

The initial procedure of the program involves an insertion of the balloons through an endoscope guided down the throat and into the stomach, and then filled with saline containing a blue dye. It takes about 10 minutes to place the balloons, and about 15 minutes to remove them.

Dr. Choi has extensive experience with advanced endoscopic and highly specialized procedures for the treatment of gastrointestinal ailments. Now, he is among the first gastroenterologists in the country to offer the safe, effective and innovative weight-loss program to patients.

During the six months the balloon is in place, the patient receives an individually tailored support program with a team of experts, including a dietician and exercise physiologist, to help keep the patient motivated, coordinate their care and help them work through weight loss barriers to meet their long-term weight loss goals. Coaching takes place over 12 months, even though the balloon is removed after six months. The program is designed to help the patient develop sustainable, healthy habits that will help maintain and keep weight off over time.

The Los Angeles Endoscopy Center is located in the heart of Los Angeles and has been serving theneeds of over 40,000 patients since 1996. To learn more about the new weight-loss program offered by the L.A. Endoscopy Center, or to set up a free consultation with Dr. Choi, patients can call 213-387-9000, email balloon@laendo.net. For more info, please visit http://www.laendo.net/stomachballoon.