Obesity balloon placement, offered at GastroExperts, is a minimally invasive weight loss procedure that can help you achieve significant weight loss. It’s a valuable tool for patients struggling with obesity and its related health issues, but considering other weight loss methods first is crucial.
A deflated silicone balloon is inserted through the mouth and guided into your stomach using a flexible endoscope. The endoscope allows the gastroenterologist to visualize the placement for accuracy and safety.
The balloon remains in your stomach for a specific period, typically 6-12 months. During this time, you'll receive ongoing support and guidance from our team at GastroExperts, including dietary counseling and lifestyle modifications, to establish healthy habits for long-term weight management.
Once positioned correctly, the balloon is filled with saline solution (saltwater) or air, depending on the type of balloon used. The inflated balloon occupies space in your stomach, promoting feelings of fullness and reducing food intake.
After the designated period, the balloon is deflated and endoscopically removed during a simple outpatient procedure.
Obesity balloon placement is considered for patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30-40 kg/m² who haven’t achieved sufficient weight loss with lifestyle changes and exercise alone. It may also be an option for certain patients with a BMI over 40 kg/m² if they have high-risk medical conditions that make surgical weight loss procedures too risky.
Balloon placement avoids surgical incisions, leading to a quicker recovery and less discomfort compared to weight loss surgery.
Studies show that obesity balloon placement can help patients lose 10-15% of their total body weight within the placement period.
Weight loss achieved through balloon placement can significantly improve obesity-related health conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure.
The program at GastroExperts goes beyond the balloon itself, providing guidance to develop healthy habits for sustainable weight management after balloon removal.
The procedure is typically performed under mild sedation. You might experience some throat discomfort during balloon placement, but any pain is usually well-managed with medication.
Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps are common but temporary side effects that typically subside within a few days of placement.
You'll need to continue with the healthy lifestyle changes and dietary modifications learned during the program to maintain weight loss benefits.
While generally safe, there's a small risk of complications like deflation, infection, or blockage of the digestive tract. Your gastroenterologist will discuss these risks in detail before the procedure.
Our team of weight loss specialists at GastroExperts understand the challenges of obesity. We offer obesity balloon placement as a potential tool alongside lifestyle modifications and dietary counseling to help you achieve sustainable weight loss goals and improve your overall health. If you’re considering obesity balloon placement, contact GastroExperts to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists to discuss if this approach is right for you.
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