The present invention provides systems and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location within the gastrointestinal tract, such as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). In one aspect of the invention, high frequency voltage is applied between the electrode terminal(s) and one or more return electrode(s) to remove a small tissue segment, channel or hole from the region near or in the LES to shrink the turbinates and prevent swelling, due to the formation of scar tissue as the wound heals. The high frequency voltage may be selected to effect a small amount of thermal damage to the walls of the channel or hole to facilitate the formation of scar tissue without extending this thermal damage beyond the immediate region of the target site. In another aspect, the high frequency voltage is selected to contract collagen fibers within the LES to improve its tone, thereby reducing the frequency of reflux.