Gastric Balloon

Gastric Balloon

Among all the weight loss solutions being sought, the gastric balloon has emerged as one of the most popular in minimally invasive options. This is a method through which one can manage obesity and attain major weight loss with fewer risks than with traditional surgery. The following article discusses the gastric balloon procedure, its cost, risks, and benefits with the purpose of empowering you to make an informed decision as to whether this will be the right choice for you.

An intragastric balloon, popularly known as a gastric balloon, is inserted into the stomach as an intervention to help in weight loss. The balloon takes up space in the stomach, limiting how much food one can eat and helping them feel full faster. Traditionally, indications for the use of the balloon were reserved for those instances when an individual had struggled with obesity and was unable to attain successful weight loss through other modalities. Knowing how the gastric balloon works and its overall effect, it would easily be judged how effective it is in weight management.

What is a Gastric Balloon?

The gastric balloon is a silicone device inserted into the stomach through endoscopy. Once the balloon is inside the stomach, it is inflated with air or water to occupy space in the stomach, limiting food intake and extending the sensation of fullness. This is a temporary solution-usually for 6-12 months-and could be helpful for someone to lose weight by reducing total caloric intake.

The placing of the gastric balloon is, in itself, a relatively non-invasive procedure. An endoscope is employed, a flexible tube with a camera on its tip, through which the deflated balloon is inserted into the stomach. After positioning, this balloon is then inflated with a sterile solution. This whole process takes less than one hour typically and can be sent home the same day. Some post-procedure discomfort may be experienced but often resolves on its own within days.

Risks of a Gastric Balloon

Although the gastric balloon is one of the safest options for weight loss, there are risks and complications possible with the procedure, such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The rare chances include deflation or obstruction caused by the balloon. These risks can be controlled and minimized amply with regular follow-up and following guidelines after the procedure.

Diet and Lifestyle with a Gastric Balloon

The diets and lifestyle plan for patients undergoing the gastric balloon are typically prescribed. This includes smaller, frequent meals with high-calorie and high-fat foods discouraged. Regular physical activities should be inculcated into one's lifestyle for added success in weight loss. The quality of dietary recommendation and exercise routines actually followed would be important parameters affecting the success rate of the gastric balloon.

Gastric Balloon Success Rate

The success rate of the gastric balloon varies from one individual to another with factors such as how well one has adapted to lifestyle changes and, of course, overall health. On average, patients are expected to shed between 15 to 30 kgs within a period of 6 months to a year. Success will, however, be deeply determined by the patient's resolve for dietary changes backed by regular exercise to sustain such weight loss.

Gastric Balloon Aftercare

Care and follow-up after placement of the gastric balloon are quite important. The patient should be followed up regularly for maintaining proper inflation of the balloon and for avoiding complications that may arise. Moreover, a healthy diet and exercise routine are very important for the long-term success of maintaining weight loss post-removal of the balloon.