Reshape Your Life
The intragastric balloon is a practical tool in non-surgical weight loss strategies. The procedure is specifically designed for individuals who need help with weight management but prefer to avoid or are not candidates for surgery. Inserting a saline-filled balloon into the stomach temporarily reduces the capacity of the stomach to hold food. This effectively curbs hunger and reduces food intake. This method is a straightforward, reversible option for weight loss, serving as a step between diet changes and surgery.
Feel fuller, faster
The intragastric balloon system is a non-surgical device for weight loss. The procedure involves inserting a saline-filled silicone balloon into the stomach via an endoscopic procedure, limiting food intake and promoting fullness. The procedure takes 30 minutes, requires no incisions, and the balloon stays in place for 6 months. This temporary solution is ideal for individuals ineligible for more invasive surgeries. Intragastric balloon bypass is a straightforward method to manage portion control and promote weight loss.
Are you the right fit?
Ideal candidates for the procedure are adults with a body mass index (BMI) between 30 and 40 who have unsuccessfully tried to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. This option is best for individuals seeking a non-surgical, temporary weight loss solution or to prepare for safer results in future surgeries. Candidates should be free of significant gastrointestinal conditions, like ulcers or hernias, and ready to commit to a strict dietary and lifestyle regimen before and after the placement of the balloon.
How much can you lose?
Weight loss with an intragastric balloon varies based on factors such as starting weight, dietary adherence, and lifestyle changes. On average, weight loss ranges between 20-50lbs during the 6 months the balloon is in place. This accounts for approximately 10%-15% of body weight. Success relies heavily on maintaining a healthy diet and regular physical activity. The intragastric balloon helps control portion sizes and reduce hunger, but sustainable weight loss requires continued healthy eating and regular exercise.
Prepare for setbacks
Common side effects include nausea and stomach discomfort, which generally subside within a few days. More serious risks include balloon deflation or migration, potentially leading to intestinal obstruction that requires urgent medical care. In rare cases, the balloon can cause gastric ulcers or perforations, requiring surgical intervention. Additionally, patients may be at risk of regaining weight after the balloon is removed if dietary changes are not sustained. Regular consultations with healthcare providers help manage these risks effectively.
Life after removal
Initial side effects like nausea and abdominal discomfort may occur, typically easing within a few days. Patients begin with a liquid diet, progressively adding soft and then solid foods as tolerated. Regular follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor health and ensure proper adjustment to the balloon. About 6 months later, the balloon is removed in a brief endoscopic session. After removal, ongoing dietary counseling and lifestyle support help maintain weight loss and promote long-term healthy habits.
Dieting Made Easier
The intragastric balloon provides a practical option for individuals needing help with weight loss without undergoing surgery. The procedure helps control hunger and portion sizes, which makes sticking to a healthier diet easier. With the right support and commitment to lifestyle changes, this procedure can be an effective step toward achieving and maintaining weight loss goals. Long-term success depends on the ability of the patient to adopt and sustain healthier eating habits and regular exercise.
