The gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss option. It is the size of a grapefruit and filled with saline solution or gas. The FDA approved balloons are filled with saline. The procedure reduces food intake by occupying space in the patient’s stomach.
While overall considered a very safe, non-surgical option, as with any medical procedure, there are rare potential complications. For a comprehensive overview of gastric balloon safety and risks, please refer to our detailed guide: ‘Is a Gastric Balloon Safe?
Who Can Benefit from a Gastric Balloon?
In the United States, adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 30, as calculated using a BMI calculator, are eligible for the gastric balloon. Individuals with weight loss goals who want to avoid surgical options like a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass may prefer to get the gastric balloon. In addition to a preference of avoiding surgical intervention, patients with medical conditions such as large hiatal hernia, peptic ulcer disease, liver disease or a blood clotting disorder are not advised to have the gastric balloon.
Your care team will provide the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. They will go through your medical history to ensure you are eligible for it and discuss the various options available.
What Happens During the Gastric Balloon Procedure?
Studies show that weight loss is about 10% more than what is achieved on lifestyle changes alone, making it incredibly effective in providing significant weight loss. It is a great, and minimally invasive, alternative to weight loss surgery. The weight loss procedure helps reduce the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.
In total, the balloon stays in place for about six months, and you work with your health care team to ensure you’re making lifestyle changes that sustain your weight loss over time. Once the balloon is out, your healthcare team should be working with you another six months to ensure a successful transition to getting to a healthy weight.
Long-Term Success After Gastric Balloon Placement
The balloon is part of a weight loss program that encourages a healthy diet and regular exercise, a tool in the weight loss journey toolbox.
The gastric balloon aids in weight loss but should not be seen as the entire solution. Behavioral therapy, an exercise program, and a healthy diet are critical to support long-term weight loss. Regular exercise and behavior modification help maintain healthier lifestyle changes are initially difficult, but long-term, are the best bet for feeling your best.
At Torrance Bariatric Institute we offer solutions like the Orbera balloon. We specialize in bariatric procedures to address obesity, diabetes, sleep apnea, and related conditions. You may want to consider a gastric balloon if you seek effective weight loss and a healthier lifestyle in 2025.
We are happy to help guide you and create a personalized weight loss program today. Just reach out.
