Gastric Balloon

What is a gastric balloon?

Gastric balloon is a temporary, nonsurgical weight loss treatment. It works by placing one or more balloon-like devices in your stomach for approximately six to twelve months.

Gastric balloon helps you lose weight by:

• Reducing the volume of food your stomach can hold
• Helping you feel full longer by slowing food and water’s ability to pass through your stomach

While the gastric balloon is in place, you establish healthy eating habits. These habits, which include eating smaller meals, can increase the likelihood of keeping weight off after we remove the balloon.

 

Who is a candidate for gastric balloon?

Trusted medical and surgical weight loss specialists guide your care. We perform a thorough assessment and ask you about your weight loss goals to determine whether gastric balloon may be right for you.

You may be a candidate if you:

• Wish to lose a moderate amount of weight: Results with a gastric balloon typically include losing 20 to 50 pounds.
• Can commit to healthy lifestyle changes: Achieving long-term weight loss is only possible when you follow a healthy diet and stay physically active. We give you the support you need to make these changes part of your daily life.
• Have not had surgery on your stomach or esophagus: To safely insert and remove the balloon, these areas must be free of scar tissue.
• Can cover the out of pocket costs: Insurance does not cover gastric balloon. You will need to pay for it out of pocket.
  
  

What to expect with a gastric balloon procedure

Gastric balloon implant procedure and lifestyle changes

There are two methods for inserting a gastric balloon. You either swallow a pill or we slide a long thin tube down your throat.

• For either technique, we give you medication to help you relax and stay comfortable during the procedure.
• Once the balloon is in place, we fill it with gas or a saline solution.
• The balloon stays in your stomach for six months. During this time, it’s easier to make a habit of eating small, healthy meals.
  
  

Gastric Balloon removal procedure

When it’s time to remove the balloon:

• You receive medication to help you relax and stay comfortable.
• We slide a thin tube down your throat and collapse the balloon by removing the gas or saline solution.
• A grabbing device at the tip of the tube helps us remove the balloon from your stomach.
  
  

What happens after I’ve had a gastric balloon procedure?

We perform the gastric balloon procedure during outpatient surgery under sedation:

• A day or two after your implant or removal procedure, a team member calls you. We ask about side effects you may be experiencing and discuss methods for helping you stay comfortable. We also answer any questions you may have.
• While the balloon is in and after it comes out, you have regular appointments with the surgeon, dietitian, mental health professional or other specialists. These follow-up visits help you stay on track with lifestyle changes. Performing bloodwork helps us determine whether you are receiving the nutrients you need.
• We are happy to help if you need support between appointments. Whether it’s questions about what to eat or a little extra encouragement, we are here for you.