I was diagnosed in 2014 with ELP. To date, I have had 37 endoscopies with dilation to enable me to eat normally. I too have them every 4 months. The doctor is required to tell you of all the possible negative outcomes but a skillful doctor isn't going to tear your esophagus. I am lucky that I see the same doctor every time and he is an expert at what he does. It took awhile to get to him (had to go thru other doctors first) but now we have a rhythm. I am 73 and still doing this. Best wishes finding the right doctor!