Also known as Intragastric Balloon, a Gastric Balloon is a weight-loss procedure for obese or overweight people. It is a non-surgical procedure in which a soft silicone rubber balloon is placed in the stomach. A deflated balloon is inserted into the stomach through the mouth and later inflated. The balloon shrinks the capacity of the stomach for restricted food intake.
The main purpose of a Gastric Balloon procedure is to partially fill the stomach so that it leaves less room for food. It is to contain the number of calories you consume to lose weight easily. Restrictive eating and calorie deficit due to a smaller stomach leads to faster and more apparent weight loss. Here are other more important details about this bariatric procedure.
Although known as a weight loss procedure, Gastric Balloon is not a surgical procedure. It is a non-invasive and non-surgical method to achieve weight loss by placing a silicone balloon in the stomach. No incisions are required because an inflatable balloon is inserted into the mouth through an endoscope. Gastric Balloon procedures are usually performed in endoscopic centers around the world.
The criteria for Gastric Balloon is much simpler than other procedures. Not only obese but slightly overweight individuals who struggle with serious medical conditions can also opt for it. A good candidate for a Gastric Balloon is someone with a Body Mass Index (BMI) anywhere between 30 and 40. The procedure is a good match for someone who is motivated to take care of their health in the long run. You do not qualify for this procedure if you have had any prior weight loss surgeries or esophageal surgeries. However, not everyone is suitable for this surgery so a complete medical screening is required to determine if you qualify.
It is a weight loss procedure performed by placing an inflatable silicone balloon in the stomach. It is a short and non-invasive bariatric procedure that leaves less space for food in the stomach. Due to limited food intake, instant weight loss can be achieved in the short and long term with consistency.
Introduction: In recent years, non-surgical weight loss procedures have gained popularity as effective options for individuals seeking to address obesity surgery and achieve significant weight reduction. Among these procedures, intragastric balloon treatment, also known as gastric balloon therapy, has emerged as a minimally invasive and reversible intervention with promising outcomes. This comprehensive guide explores various aspects of gastric balloon treatment, including the insertion processes, duration, cost, benefits, risks, post-treatment care, candidacy criteria, mechanism of action, long-term results, side effect management, alternative treatments, psychological support, and ongoing research and clinical trials.
Understanding the Intragastric Balloon: A Non-Surgical Solution for Weight Loss The intragastric balloon, or gastric balloon, is a non-surgical weight loss procedure designed to assist individuals in achieving meaningful weight reduction. It involves the insertion of a soft, expandable balloon into the stomach, where it occupies space and creates a feeling of fullness, thereby promoting reduced food intake and aiding in the management of obesity.
The Gastric Balloon Insertion Process: Minimally Invasive and Well-Tolerated The insertion of the gastric balloon is typically performed endoscopically, under sedation, and does not require surgical incisions. The entire procedure, from placement to inflation, is relatively quick and is generally well-tolerated by patients. The minimally invasive nature of the processes contributes to a faster recovery and reduced risk of complications.
Duration of Gastric Balloon Treatment and Associated Costs Gastric balloon treatment is temporary and usually lasts for a period of six months. The cost of the procedure may vary based on factors such as geographical location, healthcare facility, and additional services provided. Patients are encouraged to inquire about the total cost and potential financing options to assess the affordability of gastric balloon therapy.
Benefits and Risks of Gastric Balloon Therapy for Obesity Management The benefits of gastric balloon therapy include significant weight reduction, improvement in obesity-related comorbidities, and potential enhancement of overall health and well-being. However, it is important to acknowledge the associated risks, which may include nausea, vomiting, gastric discomfort, balloon migration, and rare but serious complications. Patients should be well-informed about both the benefits and risks before undergoing the procedure.
Post-Balloon Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Essential for Long-Term Success Following gastric balloon insertion, patients are advised to adhere to specific dietary guidelines and incorporate healthy lifestyle habits to maximize weight loss outcomes. This includes portion control, nutrient-dense meal choices, regular physical activity, and ongoing support from healthcare professionals to facilitate sustained lifestyle changes.
Gastric Balloon Removal and Follow-Up Care: Transitioning to the Next Phase At the end of the treatment period, the gastric balloon is deflated and removed endoscopically. Post-removal, patients receive guidance on transitioning to a maintenance phase and continuing their weight management journey. Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers are essential to monitor progress and provide ongoing support.
Gastric Balloon Candidates and Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Benefit from the Procedure Candidates for gastric balloon treatment typically include individuals with a body mass index (BMI) within a specific range and those who have struggled to achieve weight loss through conventional methods. Eligibility criteria may also consider overall health status, commitment to lifestyle changes, and the absence of contraindications for the procedure.
Mechanism of Action: How Gastric Balloon Works to Promote Weight Loss The gastric balloon exerts its impact on weight loss by occupying space in the stomach, thereby inducing a sensation of fullness and reducing the capacity for food intake. Additionally, the presence of the balloon may influence hunger and satiety signals, potentially contributing to improved appetite control and eating behaviors.
Long-Term Weight Loss Results and Maintenance with Gastric Balloon Therapy While gastric balloon treatment can yield significant initial weight loss, maintaining long-term results requires ongoing dedication to healthy eating patterns, physical activity, and behavioral modifications. Patients are encouraged to work closely with healthcare professionals to sustain their progress beyond the treatment period.
Managing Side Effects and Considering Alternative Weight Loss Treatments Patients undergoing gastric balloon therapy should be aware of potential side effects and strategies for managing them. Furthermore, exploring alternative weight loss treatments, such as lifestyle interventions, medication-assisted approaches, and surgical options, can provide individuals with a comprehensive understanding of available choices.
Psychological Support and Well-Being during Gastric Balloon Treatment Recognizing the psychological impact of weight loss interventions, including gastric balloon therapy, is essential. Patients may benefit from access to counseling, support groups, and resources that address emotional well-being, body image concerns, and the psychological aspects of lifestyle changes associated with weight management.
Ongoing Research and Clinical Trials: Advancing the Field of Gastric Balloon Treatment Continued research and clinical trials contribute to the evolution of gastric balloon therapy, with a focus on optimizing outcomes, enhancing safety profiles, and expanding eligibility criteria. Participation in research studies may offer eligible individuals access to innovative approaches and contribute to the advancement of non-surgical weight loss interventions.
Conclusion: Intragastric balloon treatment, as a non-surgical approach to weight loss, holds promise for individuals seeking effective solutions for obesity management. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the insertion processes, treatment duration, costs, benefits, risks, post-treatment care, candidacy criteria, mechanism of action, long-term results, side effect management, alternative treatments, psychological support, and ongoing research efforts, patients and healthcare providers can collaborate to make informed decisions and support sustainable weight loss journeys. Through a holistic approach encompassing medical, nutritional, behavioral, and psychological dimensions, gastric balloon therapy continues to contribute to the multifaceted landscape of weight management and overall well-being.
A gastric balloon is a simple and short weight loss procedure that takes only about 15-25 minutes on average. It is also a non-surgical procedure so no incisions are required and recovery time is also minimal.
There are two simple steps involved in a Gastric Balloon procedure. The procedure is performed with the help of an endoscope (a long flexible tube).
Endoscopic Stomach Inspection: Before the procedure, a mild sedative is administered to the patient. The endoscopy is inserted through the mouth and the stomach is inspected for any blockages, ulcers, or tumors.
Balloon Insertion and Inflation: After the inspection, a silicone rubber balloon is inserted through the patient’s mouth with an endoscope. Once the balloon is in the stomach, it is inflated either with gas or saline water. Gas balloons are much more comfortable but less effective for weight loss. The balloon is sealed to make sure there are no leaks.
On average a normal healthy individual can expect to lose 10 to 15% of the weight within 6 months. The balloon must be removed after every 6 to 8 months. You can continue to lose weight by renewing the balloon. The chances of successful weight loss and management are much higher if you eat healthy and exercise daily.
Gastric Balloon is a non-invasive and safe procedure for weight loss. However, no medical procedure is completely free of risks and complications. The most common risks associated with Gastric Balloon include severe nausea, abdominal pain, blockage due to deflation, ulcers, acute pancreatitis, overinflation of the balloon, and acid reflux. It is important to choose a qualified and experienced bariatric surgeon for this procedure to avoid any mishaps. It is recommended to have a detailed conversation with your doctor about the possible risks and side effects.
There are pros and cons to every bariatric procedure including Gastric Balloon for weight loss. Here are some of the pros and cons of Gastric Balloon:
Pros of Gastric Balloon:
Cons or disadvantages of Gastric Balloon:
With so many options in the medical industry, it is normal for one to choose. Between Gastric Balloon vs. Gastric Sleeve, it is better to choose one as per your weight loss goals. A Gastric Sleeve is a surgical procedure for more dramatic weight loss whereas a gastric balloon is more effective for limited weight loss (around 10-15 kgs only).
Turkey is known for its flourishing and robust medical tourism sector in the world. Around 1.2$ million tourists from Europe alone visit Turkey for different medical procedures. The best cities in Turkey for gastric balloon procedures are Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, and Ankara.
The gastric balloon procedure is a lot more affordable than other weight loss procedures. The average cost of this procedure in the West such as the U.S. is around $10,000 to $15,000. The costs are much more affordable in Turkey in comparison to other nations. The average cost of a gastric balloon is around $2,500 to $5000 (2000 EURO-3000 EURO).
Turkey is known for its flourishing and robust medical tourism sector in the world. Around 1.2$ million tourists from Europe alone visit Turkey for different medical procedures. The best cities in Turkey for gastric balloon procedures are Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, and Ankara.
The gastric balloon procedure is a lot more affordable than other weight loss procedures. The average cost of this procedure in the West such as the U.S. is around $10,000 to $15,000. The costs are much more affordable in Istanbul Turkey in comparison to other nations. The average cost of a gastric balloon is around $2,500 to $5000 (2000 EURO-3000 EURO).
Istanbul is not only a globally renowned tourist destination but also ranks as one of the top 10 hubs for medical tourism worldwide. A staggering 1.2 million Europeans choose Istanbul and other Turkish cities for an array of medical services, primarily due to cost-saving of about 80% compared to other countries.
Istanbul’s geographical advantage, right in the middle of Europe and Asia, ensures seamless flight connections. The Istanbul airport serves as a major transit hub, facilitating easy access to a multitude of flights to almost all destinations in the world. Furthermore, Istanbul is conveniently located within a mere 3-hour flight from most European countries.
What sets Istanbul apart is its well-established medical tourism infrastructure with a comprehensive network of clinics and agencies. Comprehensive services such as hotel reservations, airport transfers, hospital transportation, and translators are provided to patients.
Lastly, Istanbul is not just about medical procedures; it’s also a captivating vacation spot with a rich history and unique culture. Thus, choosing Istanbul for bariatric surgery not only guarantees top-tier medical care but also promises an enriching travel experience.
Are you thinking of having Gastric balloon treatment in Istanbul? Here is what you need to know about the processes…
Step 1 : Contacting the Patient Representative for Information
You can contact our patient counselor for help with:
Once your health history has been meticulously checked by our experienced doctors and you have been approved for surgery, you can proceed to the next stages of your treatment.
We are here to provide you with the best health care.
Step 2 – Airport Reception and Hospitalization
Upon arrival in Istanbul, our welcome team will be waiting for you at the airport. Our VIP transfer vehicle will take you to the hospital, which is only a 5-minute drive away. We will take care of all the details such as hospitalization and surgery procedures that need to be done at the hospital. We will also be with you to sign the necessary documents related to your surgery. Your health is our priority and we are here for you.
Step 3 – Tests and Consultation with Your Doctor
We will perform the following examinations to make sure you are ready for the operation:
After your examinations, you will be interviewed by psychiatrists, internists and anesthesiologists.
Step 4 – Endoscopy and Biliopancreatic Diversion
After all the necessary tests, you will be ready for surgery. Gastric Balloon Surgery is a weight loss procedure that helps you lose weight by changing the way your stomach and small intestine processes the food you eat. Here’s what happens during surgery:
The surgery usually takes around 2-3 hours and most patients stay in the hospital for 3-4 days to recover after surgery. During this time, you will be cared for by our experienced medical staff and closely monitored for any signs of complications.
Step 5 – Hospital Discharge
After your surgery is complete, you will stay in our hospital for a few days to recover. During your hospital stay, the following will happen:
Step 6 – Accommodation in Our Contracted Hotel
Our contracted hotel provides:
Gastric Balloon Surgery is a safe and effective way to improve your health and open the doors to a healthier life. We will be happy to be with you as you take your first step to a healthier life.
Dixi Travel look forward to serving you.
Since the gastric balloon is a temporary treatment, the results may also not last for long. The balloon is removed every 6 months and the stomach goes back to its normal capacity. The patient may gain all the weight or at least half the weight back if they do not eat healthy and exercise. You can keep the maximum amount of weight off by eating clean and working out consistently.
Since gastric balloon is a non-surgical and non-invasive procedure, it is only mildly painful. You can feel moderate pain if your esophagus or stomach is punctured while inserting the gastric balloon. You may also feel slight discomfort during inflation of the stomach. However, it is the least painful weight loss procedure with the shortest recovery period.
Alcohol is a high-calorie drink that slows down the recovery processes after a medical procedure. It is recommended to stay away from alcohol at least for 6 months after a gastric balloon. However, alcohol in moderate consumption usually does not affect the balloon but it could cause acid reflux.
The first week is crucial for recovery and it is important to follow the guidelines provided by your doctor. Patients are allowed to only consume liquids and soft foods in the first week. They must not consume solid and complex foods in the first week because the balloon is still adjusting in the stomach. Overall, it is recommended to consume low-calorie and light foods in the first 2 to 3 weeks to avoid overloading your stomach.
Prioritizing your wellness is the best thing you can do for your health. Every year, thousands of patients start their weight loss journey in Istanbul, leaving with a sense of confidence and accomplishment. The city is home to a wide range of hospitals offering top-notch bariatric medical services and internationally certified surgeons. We recommend you wait no longer and embark on your journey to a healthier and more beautiful you!
Bariatric surgery is fast gaining popularity as an effective treatment for obesity and other serious conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. At Dixi Health, we’re dedicated to connecting you with Turkey’s leading weight loss surgeons and hospitals. Initiate your path to a healthier you by contacting us today!
Here are the most frequently asked questions about Gastric Baloon surgery:
Typically, a gastric balloon stays in the stomach for 6 months and is then removed.
A gastric balloon is worth it if you are looking to lose around 10 to 15 kgs within 6 months. It is not worth it if you expect to lose more than 30 to 40 kgs.
A Gastric Balloon is a temporary procedure and the balloon needs to be removed every 6 to 8 months. The balloon can be renewed if someone wants to continue with the weight loss treatment.
Gastric Balloon is a non-surgical and non-invasive procedure. It does not require any incisions and is performed with the help of an endoscope.
The age limit for a gastric balloon is 18 to 65. Proper and thorough medical screening is required for people over 60 to check for any serious conditions.
There is no concrete information regarding insurance coverage since it differs from region to region. A gastric balloon is usually not covered by insurance because it is a supplementary aesthetic procedure.
Yes, it is possible to get a gastric balloon while you are pregnant but it is not recommended to get one. It is risky to get a gastric balloon while you are pregnant because of a lack of nutrients in the body. It could put your baby’s health at risk so we strongly advise against it.
A gastric balloon is a safe procedure with fewer chances of short and long-term side effects. A few common yet completely normal side effects people may go through include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
A gastric balloon is performed by either an endoscope surgeon or a bariatric surgeon. It is crucial that the medical professional is highly trained is experienced in the field.
As DixiHealth, we provide health tourism in Istanbul. We work with the most reputable hospitals and specialized doctors in Turkey and closely follow your treatment processes. While taking care of your health procedures, we accompany you to enjoy pleasant moments in the fascinating atmosphere of Istanbul.
