Procedure Length
About 5 to 7 minutes
Full visit roughly 1 to 1.5 hours with IV and recovery
Endoscopy & Prep · Forest Hills, Queens
Upper Endoscopy Procedure, Prep, and Recovery in Queens
Expert diagnosis and treatment of upper digestive issues at our Forest Hills, Queens office
(718) 261-0900Medically reviewed by Dr. Yuriy Israel, MD, Board-Certified Gastroenterologist & Internal Medicine | 15+ Years Experience | Last Updated: April 2026
Table of Content
- Our Forest Hills Upper Endoscopy Practice at a Glance
- Upper Endoscopy: What It Is and Why It Matters
- When Should I Have an Upper Endoscopy?
- Reasons for an Upper Endoscopy
- Upper Endoscopy: Preparation, Procedure, and Recovery
- Understanding the Risks
- What Our Patients Say
- Common Questions About Upper Endoscopy
- Insurance Coverage
- Related Services
- Experiencing Digestive Symptoms?
- Schedule Your Appointment
Our Forest Hills Upper Endoscopy Practice at a Glance
Our Forest Hills Upper Endoscopy Practice at a Glance
Here's what patients should know before booking an upper endoscopy with us.
Sedation
Propofol, deep sleep
You feel nothing and the gag reflex is suppressed
NPO Before Procedure
No food or drink 8 to 10 hours before
Stop after dinner the night before
GLP-1 Medication Stop
Stop Ozempic or Mounjaro 1 week prior
GLP-1 drugs slow digestion and affect stomach emptying
Recovery Time
About 20 to 30 minutes after sedation
Most patients return to normal activities after
Biopsies
Always taken during the procedure
Many upper GI conditions (H. pylori, gastritis, celiac, ulcers) need microscopic diagnosis
Facility
AAAASF-accredited endoscopy suite
Forest Hills, Queens, patient safety and comfort top priority
Lead Provider
Dr. Yuriy Israel, MD
Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Internal Medicine, 15+ years
Why It Matters
Upper Endoscopy: What It Is and Why It Matters
Upper Endoscopy (also known as EGD, or esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a procedure performed at Gastroenterology and Nutrition, P.C., led by Dr. Samuel Davidoff, MD, Board-Certified in Gastroenterology and Hepatology. This procedure allows our team to examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first portion of the small intestine).
During this procedure, a bendable, lighted tube about the thickness of your little finger is gently placed through your mouth and into the stomach and duodenum. This provides a clear view of your upper digestive tract and allows for the diagnosis of various conditions.
Patient Comfort
This procedure is performed with sedation, making it comfortable for patients. Most people have little to no recollection of the procedure itself.
Timing
When Should I Have an Upper Endoscopy?
Use the situations below to gauge timing. Always confirm with your gastroenterologist.
When should I have an upper endoscopy if heartburn is not responding to antacids?
An upper endoscopy can check for reflux esophagitis, ulcers, H. pylori gastritis, or Barrett's esophagus, common causes when antacids fail.
Schedule an evaluationI have difficulty swallowing or food feels stuck in my chest. Should I get an upper endoscopy?
Yes. Difficulty swallowing is a primary indication for upper endoscopy to look for esophageal narrowing, rings, strictures, or other obstructions.
Call usI am vomiting blood or having pitch-black stools. How urgent is this?
Urgent. These signs typically indicate upper GI bleeding from an ulcer or other lesion. Seek evaluation right away.
Call (718) 261-0900I have had reflux for years. Should I get an upper endoscopy to check for Barrett's esophagus?
Yes. Long-standing reflux is a Barrett's esophagus risk factor. An upper endoscopy lets us inspect and biopsy the lower esophagus to evaluate for changes in the lining.
I have persistent upper abdominal pain. What kind of endoscopy do I need?
Persistent upper abdominal pain, especially after meals, can signal ulcers or gastritis. An upper endoscopy examines the stomach lining and takes biopsies to confirm the diagnosis.
I am taking GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Mounjaro). What do I need to know before an upper endoscopy?
Stop GLP-1 medications at least 1 week before the procedure. These drugs slow digestion, which can affect stomach emptying and procedural safety.
This guidance is for general education and does not replace evaluation by a board-certified gastroenterologist. Recommendations vary by individual history, symptoms, and risk factors. Call (718) 261-0900 to discuss your specific situation.
“Upper endoscopy is one of those procedures where a few minutes on the table tells us more than months of guessing. When someone has reflux that won’t quit, trouble swallowing, or unexplained nausea, this is how we get a real answer and a real plan.”
Reasons
Reasons for an Upper Endoscopy
Symptom Evaluation
Helps diagnose persistent upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), heartburn, or unexplained weight loss.
Bleeding Investigation
Excellent method for finding the cause of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract with greater accuracy than X-rays.
Tissue Sampling (Biopsy)
Allows for collection of tissue samples to distinguish between cancerous and non-cancerous conditions, detect early cancer, or diagnose infections.
Better Than X-rays
More accurate than X-rays for detecting inflammation, ulcers, or tumors of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
Important Note About Biopsies
A biopsy may be taken during your endoscopy for many reasons and does not necessarily mean that cancer is suspected. Biopsies help diagnose various conditions including infections and inflammation.
Before undergoing the procedure, please inform Dr. Davidoff about any pre-existing or current medical conditions that may affect your eligibility for an upper endoscopy, including pregnancy, allergies to medications, or use of blood thinners.
Walkthrough
Upper Endoscopy: Preparation, Procedure, and Recovery
Before Your Procedure: Preparation
Proper preparation is essential for a successful upper endoscopy. The stomach should be completely empty to allow for clear visualization.
- You should have nothing to eat or drink for approximately 8 hours before the examination
- Dr. Davidoff will specify the exact fasting time based on your scheduled appointment
- Medication adjustments may be necessary before the procedure
- Inform us about ALL your current medications and allergies several days prior to the examination
- Most medications can be continued as usual, but some require special instructions
- Medications such as aspirin, Vitamin E, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, blood thinners, and insulin should be discussed with Dr. Davidoff prior to the procedure
Transportation Required
You will be sedated during the procedure, so you must arrange for someone to drive you home afterward. Sedatives affect your judgment and reflexes for the remainder of the day, so you should not drive or operate machinery until the next day.
During Your Procedure: What to Expect
The upper endoscopy procedure is straightforward and typically takes between 3-15 minutes to complete.
- You will be positioned comfortably on your side or back
- Sedation will be administered to help you relax
- The endoscope is gently passed through your mouth and into your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum
- Air is introduced into your stomach during the procedure to allow for better visualization
- The endoscope does not interfere with your breathing
- The procedure allows Dr. Davidoff to clearly view the digestive tract lining
- If needed, small tissue samples (biopsies) may be painlessly collected
Comfort is Our Priority
Most patients have little to no memory of the procedure due to the sedation. Our team monitors you closely throughout to ensure your comfort and safety.
After Your Procedure: Recovery
Recovery from an upper endoscopy is typically quick and straightforward:
- You will be monitored in the recovery area until the effects of sedation wear off
- Some bloating or gas is normal immediately after the procedure due to the air introduced during the examination
- You can usually resume your normal diet and take routine medications after leaving our office, unless instructed otherwise
- Dr. Davidoff will typically discuss preliminary findings with you on the day of the procedure
- If biopsies were taken, those results take several days to return
- Our team will provide written instructions and contact information before you leave
- If you don't remember what Dr. Davidoff told you due to the sedation, please call our office for clarification
After-Care Instructions
Don't drive or make important decisions for 24 hours after the procedure. If you experience severe pain, fever, difficulty swallowing, or notice unusual symptoms after your procedure, contact our office immediately at 718-261-0900.
Safety
Understanding the Risks
Upper endoscopy is generally considered a very safe procedure with minimal risks. However, as with any medical procedure, there are certain rare complications you should be aware of:
- Complications from sedatives
- Bleeding (especially after biopsy)
- Fever
- Chest pains
- Swelling
- Vomiting
- Perforation of the gastrointestinal tract
- Difficulty breathing
- Blackened stools
- Infection
- Persistent pain in the area of endoscopy
Important Note About Biopsies
A biopsy may be taken during your endoscopy for many reasons and does not necessarily mean that cancer is suspected. Biopsies help diagnose various conditions including infections and inflammation.
Before undergoing the procedure, please inform Dr. Davidoff about any pre-existing or current medical conditions that may affect your eligibility for an upper endoscopy, including pregnancy, allergies to medications, or use of blood thinners.
What Our Patients Say
What Our Patients Say
Real experiences from patients who've had upper endoscopies at our Forest Hills practice.
“I was extremely nervous about having an upper endoscopy, but Dr. Davidoff and his team at the Forest Hills office were incredible. They explained everything clearly beforehand, answered all my questions, and made me feel completely at ease. The procedure was quick and I didn't feel a thing, I was worried for nothing! The results helped identify the cause of my stomach pain, and now I'm finally getting proper treatment. I would recommend Dr. Davidoff to anyone needing this procedure.”
Michael R.
Queens, NY
FAQ
Common Questions About Upper Endoscopy
We understand you may have concerns about your procedure. Here are answers to questions our Forest Hills patients frequently ask.
No. You'll be comfortably sedated during the procedure, so you won't feel the endoscope being inserted. Your gag reflex is suppressed by the sedation, and most patients have no recollection of the procedure afterward. Dr. Davidoff ensures your comfort is prioritized throughout the entire process. Some patients report a mild sore throat afterward, but this typically resolves within a day.
The upper endoscopy procedure itself typically takes between 3-15 minutes to complete. However, you should plan to be at our Forest Hills office for approximately 2 hours total, which includes check-in, preparation, the procedure, and recovery time. The sedation takes some time to wear off, and our team will monitor you during this period to ensure you're recovering well.
At our AAAASF-accredited Forest Hills endoscopy suite, upper endoscopies are performed under monitored sedation with an anesthesiology professional present throughout. The most common option is monitored anesthesia care (MAC) with propofol, which provides a deeper sleep and no memory of the procedure. Moderate conscious sedation is also available for patients who prefer a lighter experience. Dr. Davidoff discusses the best option for you during your pre-procedure consultation.
Most patients can eat and drink shortly after the procedure, once the sedation wears off and the throat feels normal, typically within one to two hours. Start with clear liquids and soft foods. If biopsies were taken or a therapeutic intervention was performed, Dr. Davidoff may recommend specific dietary guidance. You will receive written post-procedure instructions before you leave.
Upper endoscopy is generally safe with a low complication rate. Minor risks include temporary sore throat, mild bloating, and a small risk of reaction to sedation. Rare but serious complications include bleeding (less than 1 in 1,000), perforation of the digestive tract, and aspiration. Our AAAASF-accredited facility, anesthesia monitoring, and board-certified gastroenterologists minimize these risks. Dr. Davidoff reviews all risks with you before the procedure.
The main preparation is fasting for approximately 8 hours before your procedure to ensure your stomach is empty. This typically means nothing to eat or drink after midnight if your procedure is scheduled for the morning. Dr. Davidoff will provide specific instructions based on your appointment time. You'll need to inform us about all medications you take, especially blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, and insulin, as these may need adjustment before the procedure.
Dr. Davidoff will usually discuss preliminary findings with you immediately after your procedure, once you're sufficiently alert from sedation. If biopsies were taken, those results typically take several days to return from the laboratory. Our office will contact you with these results as soon as they're available.
Upper endoscopy cost depends on your insurance plan, whether the procedure is diagnostic or screening, and whether biopsies are taken. Most commercial insurance plans and Medicare cover medically necessary upper endoscopy, often with standard deductible and copay. Our team verifies your benefits before the appointment and provides a personalized estimate. Call 718-261-0900 for a coverage check.
Most commercial insurance plans, Medicare, and Medicare Advantage cover medically necessary upper endoscopy. Coverage depends on your specific plan, whether the procedure is diagnostic or therapeutic, and your deductible or copay. Our front desk verifies your benefits before scheduling so there are no surprises. Call 718-261-0900 with your insurance information.
We offer same-week scheduling for upper endoscopy at our Forest Hills, Queens endoscopy suite. After a consultation with Dr. Davidoff or Dr. Israel to confirm the procedure is appropriate for your symptoms, most patients are scheduled within three to seven days. For urgent symptoms like difficulty swallowing or upper GI bleeding, we prioritize faster scheduling. Call 718-261-0900 to request an appointment.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance Coverage
We understand you may have concerns about your procedure. Here are answers to questions our Forest Hills patients frequently ask.
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
Medicare
Medicaid
Not seeing your insurance provider? Call our Forest Hills office at 718-261-0900 to verify coverage.
Check Your CoverageDon't Wait
Experiencing Digestive Symptoms?
Don't wait to address persistent upper digestive issues. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Davidoff.
Same-week appointments available at our Forest Hills office. Most insurance plans accepted.
Book Your Visit
Schedule Your Appointment
Complete the form below, and our team at 108-16 72nd Ave, Forest Hills will contact you within one business day to confirm your appointment with Dr. Davidoff.
Medical Disclaimer: The upper endoscopy information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not substitute for individualized medical advice from your physician. Fasting requirements, medication instructions, and sedation considerations vary by patient. Always follow the specific pre-procedure instructions provided by your doctor or our clinical team. Call us at (718) 261-0900 with any questions.