Gastric Balloon Surgery

Gastric balloon surgery, or an intragastric balloon, maybe the solution for you if you are looking for a non-surgical weight loss treatment option. It is a non-surgical weight loss treatment option for those who may not qualify for more extensive bariatric surgery. This form of bariatric surgery involves the insertion of a balloon into the stomach via endoscopy, which then takes up a significant portion of the stomach’s capacity, leading to a decrease in appetite and weight loss. Patients with a BMI over 30 who wish to improve obesity-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure typically use gastric balloons.

What is a Gastric Balloon?

The Orbera gastric balloon system consists of an expanding balloon, a placement tube, and a filling mechanism. It is a spherical ball inserted into the stomach with the use of endoscopy. Then they fill the balloon with sterile saline solution and can remain in place for 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on the type of balloon. Another type of gastric balloon, the Obalon, is swallowed in the form of a vitamin tablet and inflated with gas inside the stomach. Sedation is not necessary during the placement procedure. Gastric balloons, like other weight-loss operations, require a commitment to a healthier lifestyle, including changes in diet and exercise.

Who is Suitable for the Procedure?

If your BMI is greater than 30, a gastric balloon surgery may assist you in losing weight as well as treating other medical concerns like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. This treatment may be especially beneficial for obese patients to undergo life-saving surgery. It is also an appropriate procedure for patients who have never undergone stomach or oesophagal surgery before. For morbidly obese people who need to lose weight before surgery, this method can help. They’re also suitable for people who don’t want to undergo a surgical procedure.

The Effect of Gastric Balloons on Weight Loss

Patients can expect to lose between 20-30% of their excess weight with gastric balloons. The procedure is less costly than many surgical treatments. The amount of weight loss will vary depending on their circumstances. They do not result in significant weight reduction and are unsuccessful over time. It is just a temporary treatment for obesity, but when other alternatives are inefficient or unavailable, they are the best option. The success rate can vary depending on the individual and the commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

Procedure for Removing the Gastric Balloon

The gastric balloon is removed before it’s deflated, and an endoscopic tube is used to draw it through the mouth. Once you remove it, the stomach will revert to its original size and shape.

Benefits

Some of the benefits of gastric balloons include:

• Any obesity-related health issues can improve with weight decrease.
• It is a minimally invasive procedure.
• It is a non-surgical technique.
• This procedure doesn’t require general anaesthesia.

Gastric Balloon Surgery Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Ulcers or deflation of the balloon

These side effects can generally be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.

Gastric Balloon SurgeryCost

It is less costly than many surgical treatments. The type of balloon and the area where the balloon is placed will determine the pricing. Gastric balloons cost around 2200 Euros on average in Avicenna International Hospital while your support package is included in it. Our support package includes medical examination and support before and after the procedure, analyses, diet program, hospital stay costs if necessary, and follow-ups during hospitalization. Besides, you will have a translator during all processes. We also provide transportation services from the airport to your hotel and hotel to the hospital. If you’re interested in learning more about gastric balloons and how they can benefit you, please contact Avicenna obesity Center today for a consultation.