What is a gastric balloon?
A gastric balloon—also called a stomach balloon or intragastric balloon—is a temporary medical device placed inside the stomach. It remains there for up to one year before it must be removed. The balloon helps control portion sizes and supports gradual, steady weight loss. With the balloon in place, patients feel full more quickly and stay satisfied for longer periods. It also influences hunger‑related hormones, effectively reducing appetite. Studies show that a gastric balloon can help patients lose up to three times more weight compared to dieting and exercising alone. It is typically recommended only when lifestyle changes have not produced the desired weight‑loss results.
The gastric balloon is a good option for individuals who cannot or prefer not to undergo permanent bariatric procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass. Patients can expect to lose up to 30% of their excess body weight. This level of weight loss can significantly reduce the risk of obesity‑related conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and type 2 diabetes. It is important to remember that the balloon is only effective when the patient actively participates by following a healthy diet and adopting long‑term lifestyle habits.
How is the procedure performed?
Gastric balloon placement is a non‑surgical procedure carried out in a clinical setting. The entire process takes about 15-20 minutes.
Gastric balloon consists of a small capsule which is swallowed, containing the deflated balloon, attached to a thin tube. This is inflated with 550ml sterile water via the tube to the balloon. Once filled, the tube is removed by gentle traction.
Who is eligible for a gastric balloon?
A gastric balloon may be suitable for patients who:
- are moderately overweight
- have a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 27 and 50
- have not achieved sufficient weight loss through diet and exercise alone
- cannot or prefer not to undergo bariatric surgery
A gastric balloon may NOT be suitable for patients who:
- are unwilling to change their diet and lifestyle habits
- are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy within six months
- have had previous gastrointestinal surgery
- have a history of gastric bleeding, ulcers, hiatal hernia, or structural abnormalities of the esophagus or larynx
- cannot undergo endoscopic procedures
- struggle with drug or substance addiction
A physical examination and a detailed review of medical history are essential to determine whether a patient is a suitable candidate for gastric balloon placement.
Recovery after gastric balloon insertion
After the procedure
In the first few days after the gastric balloon is placed, it is common to experience nausea and discomfort. These symptoms usually fade as the digestive system adjusts to the balloon. Although many people can return to work within a few days, it is advisable to take about a week to rest and recover. Gentle daily activity—such as walking for 15–30 minutes—is recommended.
Support program
Once you have recovered and feel comfortable with the balloon, you will receive ongoing guidance from a dedicated medical team, including a surgeon, dietitian, and psychologist. This support program, which may last up to five years, is designed to keep you motivated, help you adopt healthy habits, and maintain them long term.
Emotional support
Adjusting to a new lifestyle can be mentally challenging as well as physically demanding. It is normal to experience a mix of emotions—frustration, excitement, or sadness—during the weight‑loss process. Continuous emotional support from professionals or loved ones is important. Surround yourself with people who encourage your progress and distance yourself from those who are unsupportive.
Possible risks of the procedure
As with any medical procedure, gastric balloon placement carries certain risks related to the endoscopic technique, sedation, and the body’s reaction to a foreign object. Potential complications include:
- Complete or partial bowel obstruction
- Insufficient weight loss
- Abdominal discomfort
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Acid reflux
- Infection
- Injury to the digestive tract
- Balloon deflation
Our clinic’s experienced medical team works diligently to minimize these risks and ensure high‑quality care before, during, and after the procedure.
How will my diet look with a gastric balloon?
Liquids
You may take your first sip of water about six hours after the procedure. For the first three days, only liquids are allowed. Over the following two weeks, your diet will gradually progress from liquids to semi‑liquids and eventually to soft solids. The pace of this transition depends on how well your body adapts to the balloon.
New eating habits
Your new diet focuses on small portions of nutrient‑dense foods. Aim for 3–4 meals per day, with a total intake of no more than 1200 calories. Eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and consider using smaller plates to help control portion sizes. Since meals are small, choose foods that are healthy, visually appealing, and enjoyable. Keeping a food diary can help track your progress. Avoid high‑calorie snacks such as chocolate, ice cream, and fast food, as they do not curb hunger and add unnecessary calories. Instead, choose healthier options like fruit, boiled eggs, or carrot sticks with hummus. If you feel nauseous, gentle movement can help food pass from the stomach into the intestines. Remember that the balloon may cause bloating even as you lose weight.
New drinking habits
Try to drink at least eight glasses of fluid daily to stay hydrated and prevent constipation. Sip liquids slowly, ideally 30–45 minutes after meals. Fluids help rinse food residue off the balloon and reduce burping. Avoid drinking during meals, as this can cause discomfort or vomiting. Completely avoid carbonated beverages, and eliminate high‑calorie drinks, caffeinated drinks (which stimulate appetite), milkshakes, alcohol, and juices. Choose decaffeinated drinks, herbal teas, broth, or unsweetened natural fruit beverages instead.
Removing the gastric balloon — how to prepare
The gastric balloon is designed to be a procedureless, swallowable gastric balloon that naturally deflates and is excreted after 16 weeks. A time-activated release valve ensures it passes naturally through the gastrointestinal tract, usually requiring no endoscopy, surgery, or anesthesia for removal.
The success of the procedure depends on your commitment
Once the balloon is removed, the stomach returns to its original size. Because the procedure does not create permanent anatomical changes, maintaining healthy habits is essential for long‑term success. Your results depend entirely on your willingness to continue the lifestyle changes you adopted during treatment.
Before removal, you will need to take heartburn medication to reduce reflux that may occur afterward. Since the stomach must be empty, you should avoid solid foods for 48 hours before the procedure, though small sips of low‑calorie liquids are allowed.
