Mr. Safwan’s Journey: Gastric Botox in Iran

Mr. Safwan, a 29-year-old from Oman, traveled to Iran to undergo a weight loss procedure, opting for gastric Botox injections. Initially, he had considered a gastric sleeve surgery, but after consultations with the caring team at SafeMedTour, he was advised against it.

Zahra, one of the consultants, inquired about his height, weight, and age. She explained that gastric sleeve surgery wasn’t recommended for two reasons: first, Mr. Safwan suffered from gastric reflux, and second, his body mass index (BMI) was 32, which is lower than the 35 typically required for sleeve surgery. Instead, she suggested gastric Botox as a more suitable option. This procedure is akin to a gastric balloon and is a newer method with minimal risks. It’s particularly appropriate for individuals with a BMI lower than 35 who wish to avoid more invasive procedures.

Zahra explained that gastric Botox has no side effects and that he could have the injections repeated after six months without any issues. He would begin to notice results within the first week, with approximately 50 to 60 percent of the expected weight loss occurring within the first three months. The procedure allows patients to lose up to 14 kg over about six months. Following the procedure, the doctor provides dietary instructions similar to those given after gastric sleeve surgery.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and lasts approximately 30 minutes, making it a minor and non-invasive operation. After the injections, patients can usually return to their hotel within one or two hours, experiencing little to no pain.

Tourism Services Provided to Mr. Safwan

On the day of his arrival, which was his only day in Iran before the surgery, Mr. Safwan was advised to refrain from eating or drinking anything. Upon his arrival, our team, including an interpreter and driver, met him at the airport and took him directly to the doctor’s office.

Pre-Procedure Preparation

All arrangements were made in advance. The required medications and materials were prepared ahead of time, ensuring that Mr. Safwan had no delays in seeing the doctor. After his arrival, he was taken to the room where the Botox injections would be administered. The anesthesiologist spoke with him, asked basic questions regarding any allergies or medications, and ensured he felt comfortable before the procedure, especially since it was his first experience with anesthesia.

During the Gastric Botox Procedure

Once the anesthesiologist completed her assessment, the doctor entered to explain the procedure. Mr. Safwan was informed that he would receive 25 injections of 0.5 ml of Botox via endoscopy. He was assured that there would be no side effects and that he could resume his normal diet after an hour, starting with a cool drink. To achieve the best results, following a healthy diet is essential, as gastric Botox, like other bariatric surgeries, requires the patient’s commitment to a healthier lifestyle.

The doctor spoke fluent English, clarifying that gastric Botox is not harmful and that it would gradually wear off in six months. During that period, Mr. Safwan could expect to lose about 10 to 15 percent of his excess weight, a sufficient amount to reach a healthier weight.

The procedure itself lasted approximately 20 minutes under mild anesthesia, and afterward, Mr. Safwan was taken to the recovery room to rest until he regained consciousness.

During the endoscopy, the doctor discovered that Mr. Safwan had a Helicobacter pylori infection and a stomach ulcer, for which he prescribed a two-week course of medication. Interestingly, the gastric Botox procedure also helped address these issues, improving his gastric reflux condition.