Gastric Balloon

Let us introduce you to the simplest way to lose weight: the gastric balloon! If you are looking for a non-surgical and non-medication method to help you reach your ideal weight, the gastric balloon might be the solution you have been searching for.

The gastric balloon is a small silicone device that your doctor can easily place in your stomach to occupy more space inside it, making you feel full and reducing your appetite.

Doctors can use one of six different types of gastric balloons, including Orbera IGB, Heliosphere, Spatz3, ReShape, Obalon, and Elipse.

Most of these balloons can be taken in capsule form that can be swallowed directly without the need for anesthesia.

The demand for gastric balloons has greatly increased, especially among those seeking simple and less risky solutions to obesity. In brief, if you decide to try one of the gastric balloon techniques, you may enjoy the following benefits:

• Lose between 20-30% of your body weight within just a few months.
• Enjoy a temporary, non-surgical obesity solution with fewer risks and smoother recovery.
• Avoid obesity-related health problems that can have harmful effects on your health.
• Make it easier for yourself to adopt a healthy lifestyle and new dietary habits.
• Prepare your body fully for potential obesity surgeries in the future if needed.
• Feel safe and comfortable knowing your doctor can remove the balloon anytime if things worsen.
• Benefit from an effective and more affordable obesity solution compared to more expensive surgeries.

Not all doctors can handle gastric balloon techniques; therefore, you first need to find a qualified and experienced doctor or contact a reputable clinic that offers such treatments.

Your doctor may prepare you for this procedure by doing the following:

• Performing a physical examination and additional lab tests to ensure everything is fine.
• Providing you with some dietary instructions, including eating only soft foods during the two days prior to the procedure and fasting completely for 12 hours before the procedure.
• Requesting you to make the proper arrangements, including taking time off work and having someone to drive you home after the procedure.

The gastric balloon system typically consists of an insertion tube, a filling system, and an expandable balloon. The procedure usually takes only 15-20 minutes and is typically performed in an outpatient clinic with minimal anesthesia.

The procedure steps include:

1. Balloon Insertion: Your doctor will insert the gastric balloon through your mouth, usually using an endoscope equipped with a light and camera to monitor the process.
2. Balloon Filling: Your doctor will use a small tube to fill or inflate the balloon with a sterile saline solution.
3. Balloon Removal: Finally, after approximately 6 months, your doctor will remove the balloon via endoscopy to complete the treatment.

On the other hand, the gastric capsule has much simpler steps. If you choose this option, all you need to do is swallow the capsule and your doctor will inflate it.

Recovery after receiving a gastric balloon usually goes smoothly without problems and may include the following:

• You can go home the same day and resume your usual activities without issues.
• You may return to work one or two days after the procedure if you feel well.
• Expect some nausea, which usually subsides after a day or two.
• Drink only fluids and gradually move to soft and solid foods in the first few weeks after the procedure.
• After six months, your doctor will remove the balloon the same way it was placed — through your mouth.

The gastric balloon usually has positive effects and rarely causes side effects. However, some people may experience certain problems, especially during balloon insertion, and the risks and complications include:

• Damage to teeth or dental braces.
• Perforation of the stomach or esophagus.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Abnormal heart rhythms.
• Intestinal obstruction.
• Increased stomach acidity.
• Bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Balloon failure.
• Allergic reactions.
• Bleeding.