Gastric balloons are a non-surgical, non-endoscopic solution for patients who are interested in a moderate weight loss but may not qualify for a surgical or endoscopic procedure.

A saline-filled silicone balloon is unique in that it is introduced into the stomach by swallowing a simple pill and doesn’t require sedation. The procedure can be performed at the office in about 15 minutes.

This helps you lose weight by limiting how much you can eat and making you feel fuller faster.

If you have concerns about your weight and diet and exercise haven’t worked for you, gastric balloon surgery may be an option for you.

The surgeons at BariClinic have been recognized for performing gastric balloon. They offer a variety of services with safe and effective techniques,, including the gastric balloon, and their decades of experience are reflected in their work.

 

If you’re thinking about undergoing gastric balloon, our experienced Dr. Donatas Danys can help you.

Gastric Balloon Procedure

The patient swallows a pill, connected to a long thin tube. After approximately 10 minutes, we perform an x-ray of the abdomen to ensure that the pill has been appropriately introduced into the stomach. At this point, the balloon is filled with about 550cc of sterile saline (saltwater) – about the size of a grapefruit. The tube is then removed. A second x-ray is then performed to ensure the balloon remains in the appropriate area of the stomach.

The volume of the balloon takes up space in the stomach previously used for food. 

This allows for:

• Faster satisfaction and eating smaller portions
• A feeling of fullness, which will help reduce cravings
• Feeling satisfied for longer, as food takes longer to leave the stomach

The balloon remains within the patient’s stomach for four months to six, at which point a time-activated release valve allows the water out of the balloon and the shell passes through the normal digestive system easily.

Gastric Balloon Post Op

The first few days after the balloon is placed, you may experience some discomfort, which can last from a few days to a couple of weeks. Discomfort is normal after your surgery, but be sure to contact your bariatric surgeon if you experience anything unusual or painful.

During the first week after the procedure, most patients are not hungry. Some patients do experience nausea that gets worse with food intake. Weight loss can be significant during the first week.

You will be able to drink some clear liquids starting about six hours after the procedure. The liquid diet generally continues until the start of the second week, when you can start eating soft foods. It’s likely that you’ll be eating regular food in three weeks after the insertion of a gastric balloon.

Gastric balloons are placed in the stomach through an endoscope. They are left there for up to 6 months and then removed through the digestive system. 

You’ll also meet with members of your medical team, such as your nutritionist and psychologist, frequently after your procedure.

Gastric Balloon Recovery

You can usually go home from the hospital 1 to 3 days after having weight loss surgery. After 4 to 6 weeks, you’ll be able to return to your normal activities. However, you’ll need to make long-term lifestyle changes in order to help make the most of your surgery.