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The gastric balloon is a small saline-filled balloon inserted temporarily into the stomach.
The non-surgical procedure, which gives patients a feeling of fullness, is an effective treatment for mild to moderate obesity.
Once inserted in the stomach via an endoscopic tube, the balloon floats freely and restricts the amount of food that can be comfortably eaten. Patients can expect to feel less hungry in general, as well as feeling full after eating smaller meals.
Like most anti-obesity treatments, the gastric balloon is most effective for long-term weight loss when accompanied by lifestyle changes like improved diet and exercise. The procedure is often offered to patients who do not qualify for gastric band (bariatric) surgery.
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The deflated gastric balloon is placed in the stomach using the non-surgical endoscopy procedure – a small tube inserted in the throat.
Once in place, the balloon is filled with a sterile saline solution via an external catheter. The treatment is carried out under mild sedative and a local anaesthetic to numb the throat.
The procedure takes around 20 minutes to complete and there is no surgery involved.
Patients can generally return home the effects of the sedative have worn off, usually within 2-3 hours of completing treatment.
You may experience mild discomfort for a few days afterwards, but this soon gives way to a feeling of fullness. It’s best to plan for around a week of inactivity while your body gets used to the balloon.
The gastric balloon usually remains in place for six months, after which time it is either replaced or removed. Dr Bansi removes it using an endoscopic tube inserted through the mouth and throat.
Removal is carried out under local anaesthetic and gentle sedation. You can return home in 2-3 hours when the sedative wears off.
From well-equipped and convenient locations across West and central London, Devinder and his expert team provide unparalleled quality of care for the full range of GIT-related conditions.
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