The AspireAssist is a new, FDA-approved weight loss solution that works by reducing the amount of calories your body processes. Unlike many other weight loss procedures, it’s non-surgical and reversible. During an outpatient procedure, a small tube is inserted into your stomach. The tube connects to a low-profile button on the surface of your skin. After you eat a meal, a small and discrete device is attached to the button and allows you to empty about 30 percent of the content of your stomach into a toilet. This simple, private process takes you five to 10 minutes.
Because the AspireAssist requires that you chew your food well, you're likely to find that you also eat more slowly and feel full sooner, good steps to take toward maintaining weight loss. With AspireAssist, there are no specific foods that are off-limits.
Placement of the AspireAssist is a non-invasive endoscopic procedure for adults with a body mass index (BMI) between 35 and 55. Although it's intended for long-term use, you may choose to have the device removed once you’ve reached your goal weight and have made healthy lifestyle changes.
At Virginia Mason in Seattle, this procedure is part of a comprehensive weight loss center that focuses on developing long-term, sustainable, healthy habits to lose weight and keep it off. The multidisciplinary experts within the Nutrition Center of Excellence are here to guide you through every step of your weight loss journey. To learn more about this procedure or schedule an appointment, please call (206) 223-2319.
About the AspireAssist Procedure
The procedure takes about 15 minutes, and is usually done using anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Once you are sedated, the tube is inserted through your mouth, into your stomach, and out through a half-inch incision in your abdomen. Most patients can go home within two hours, and are back to normal activities within a few days. Your Virginia Mason support team will follow your progress for as long as you are using the AspireAssist. They will continue to guide you toward making healthy lifestyle choices in your nutrition and activity.
What are possible side effects of the AspireAssist?
The AspireAssist does not have many of the risks associated with invasive surgical procedures. The AspireAssist has a low risk of serious complications, similar to feeding tubes, which have been used for over 30 years.
The most common adverse events are abdominal discomfort and irritation around the button area. Other less likely risks include infection, pain around the button area, and stomach ulceration, which can generally be resolved with conservative medical care, tube replacement, or tube removal.
What is the recovery process for an AspireAssist placement?
After placement of the AspireAssist, you may experience some pain or discomfort in the first few days. Medication is prescribed to help manage these symptoms. Patients can usually begin showering two days after the procedure and you will be given instructions on how to care for the stoma site.
About two weeks after your procedure, your Virginia Mason team will show you how to use the AspireAssist. After this appointment, you will take the AspireAssist kit home with you and begin your weight loss journey!
What if I have other questions or concerns about AspireAssist?
Our staff and nurses are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by calling (206) 223-2319.
What other non-invasive, endoscopic options for weight loss are available? A gastric balloon helps you eat less and feel fuller for longer due to a balloon placed into the stomach endoscopically.