Gastric Balloon: What It Is and How It Works

Gastric balloon placement is a procedure in which a balloon-shaped device placed in the stomach takes up space, creating an early feeling of fullness and, as a result, reducing food intake. It has been used in the treatment of obesity since 1985.

How Is a Gastric Balloon Placed?

The materials used for a gastric balloon range from silicone polymers to gelatin capsules. After the patient receives the necessary anesthesia, the deflated balloon is placed in the stomach under endoscopic guidance and then inflated appropriately. Depending on the material, it is filled with liquid or air. How long the balloon stays in the stomach varies by brand, but most remain for about 6 months.

When the balloon has completed its period of effect, the stomach is again accessed endoscopically, and the balloon is deflated and removed.

What Is the Advantage of a Gastric Balloon?

The advantage of a gastric balloon over other procedures is that the structure of the stomach is preserved. When fully inflated, the gastric balloon delays gastric emptying. Air-filled balloons may not delay gastric emptying but work through stretch receptors in the stomach wall.

What Are the Side Effects of a Gastric Balloon?

In people losing weight with a gastric balloon, the most common side effects are abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. More serious gastric balloon side effects have been reported at low rates. One point worth mentioning is that, especially in the first few days after placement, there may be cases of severe retching and vomiting in which the patient cannot tolerate the balloon and it needs to be removed. The balloon is used in patients who have not reached the threshold for surgery, but it can also be used before surgery in patients who need an operation, to achieve rapid weight loss so that they undergo surgery at a lower weight.

When Is a Gastric Balloon Not Used?

As with gastric Botox, despite how simple and easy the procedure is, there are some conditions that rule out gastric balloon placement. These include stomach ulcers, severe gastritis, previous stomach or esophageal surgery, large hiatal hernias, as well as heart and lung diseases and bleeding disorders that make endoscopy risky.

When Will I Lose Weight After a Gastric Balloon?

For people with a gastric balloon, the greatest weight loss occurs in the first 3 months after placement. After the balloon is removed at the end of the 6th month, the most important factor in maintaining the weight reached is developing healthy eating awareness and habits and adapting to the corresponding lifestyle changes. For this reason, continuing this process under the follow-up of a dietitian and a psychologist helps achieve the greatest benefit. Otherwise, the lost weight may be regained.