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Gastric Balloon

Overview

The gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss procedure designed to help individuals manage their portion sizes and reduce caloric intake. It involves placing a soft, inflatable balloon in the stomach to occupy space, making it easier to eat smaller meals and feel full sooner. This method is often paired with professional coaching, which includes dietary guidance, psychological support, and exercise plans, lasting up to 12 months (6 months during the balloon placement and 6 months post-removal).

Your healthcare provider might recommend the gastric balloon for:

  • Weight Loss Goals: If you need to lose weight but want to avoid surgical interventions.
  • Medical Concerns: Obesity-related conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or sleep apnoea need management through weight reduction.
  • Improved Lifestyle Habits: You require guidance to build long-term healthy eating and exercise habits.

To prepare, you may be asked to:

  • Fast for a few hours before the procedure.
  • Discuss your medical history to ensure suitability for the gastric balloon.
  • Undergo basic medical assessments like blood tests or imaging.

The gastric balloon placement is quick, usually taking 20–30 minutes, and is performed on an outpatient basis.

  • A mild sedative is administered to ensure comfort.
  • A deflated balloon is inserted into the stomach through the mouth using an endoscope.
  • The balloon is then filled with saline until it reaches the size of a grapefruit.
  • After 6 months, the balloon is deflated and removed through the same process under mild sedation.

  • Initial Weight Loss: Most weight loss occurs during the first three months. Patients typically lose 3.1 times more weight than with diet and exercise alone.
  • Sustained Effort: Success depends on your commitment to dietary changes and regular physical activity.
  • Professional Support: Coaching from experts helps maintain the progress achieved during the treatment.

  • Proven Efficacy: Decades of use with thousands of successful cases.
  • FDA-Approved Safety: Offers a reliable alternative to more invasive weight loss procedures.
  • Long-Term Impact: Encourages sustainable weight management even after the balloon is removed.

  • Bariatric Surgery: Such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy for more severe obesity cases.
  • Pharmacological Interventions: Prescription medications for weight loss.
  • Diet and Exercise Programs: Structured plans supervised by healthcare professionals.

  • Mild Discomfort: Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain in the initial days after placement.
  • Rare Complications: Balloon deflation, intestinal obstruction, or perforation.
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