What Is Gastric Balloon? In Which Situations Is It Used?
As the name suggests, a gastric balloon is a balloon-shaped, blue medical-grade silicone material filled with liquid or air. This balloon is inserted into the stomach through an endoscopic procedure and inflated. The gastric balloon is especially applied for people with a body mass index between 27-40 who want to lose weight without surgery. The balloon is inserted into the stomach and narrows the stomach volume, causing the person to eat less food. In addition, the fact that the balloon narrows the stomach and slows down the passage of food helps to reduce the feeling of hunger and stay full longer. The success of the gastric balloon procedure usually depends on the patient regulating their daily calorie intake with the help of a nutritionist.
The duration of use of the gastric balloon may vary according to the patient's body mass index, targeted weight loss and eating habits. In general, the gastric balloon can remain in the stomach for 4.5-6 months or 1 year. As a result of the application, 15-30% of the current body weight can be lost in a short time. The main goal here is fat loss and this depends on the personal will of the patient, the treating specialist and the supporting nutritionist. After the gastric balloon is removed, the results can be permanent if the patient maintains these new eating habits.
Before a gastric balloon is inserted, the patient must undergo a detailed medical check-up. This helps the doctor to assess whether the patient is suitable for a gastric balloon. Patients are usually asked to fast for several hours before insertion and the stomach must be empty to ensure safe insertion of the gastric balloon during endoscopy. In some cases, the use of certain medications may be stopped before the procedure. It is also important that patients are informed about their habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol, and that they talk to their doctor about the preparations they should make before the procedure.
The gastric balloon is inserted through an endoscopic procedure. During the procedure, the patient is given a mild sedation and an empty balloon is inserted into the stomach with a device called an endoscope. After reaching the stomach, the balloon is inflated with a sterile solution. The procedure can usually be performed in outpatient clinic conditions, not in an operating room setting, allowing the patient to return home the same day. Once in the stomach, the insertion of a gastric balloon helps with weight loss by suppressing appetite.
Gastric balloon placement is a quick and simple procedure that usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. During the procedure, the patient receives a mild sedation, which makes them comfortable throughout the procedure. This endoscopic procedure involves inserting a balloon into the stomach through an endoscope. Once the balloon reaches the stomach, it is inflated with sterile saline solution, providing the required volume. The patient is kept under observation shortly after the procedure is completed and is usually discharged the same day.
A gastric balloon is a non-surgical method used for weight loss. The balloon is placed endoscopically in the stomach and takes up volume, allowing less food to be consumed. Other differences between surgical methods are;
Gastric balloon is suitable for people who cannot lose weight with diet and sports, do not want surgery or are not suitable for surgery for medical reasons. It is also a suitable weight loss option for people with a body mass index between 27-40. Especially in individuals who need to lose weight, weight loss can sometimes be achieved before surgery by placing a gastric balloon.
Gastric balloon application should not be performed in pregnant women, individuals receiving cortisone therapy, people with stomach diseases such as ulcers, gastritis, cancer and people with a body mass index below 27. In addition, people who have previously undergone stomach surgery and people with blood clotting disorders are not suitable for this procedure.
In the first few days after the gastric balloon is inserted, side effects such as nausea, vomiting and mild stomach pain may occur as the body adapts to the balloon. This process usually subsides within a few days and patients can return to their daily lives. Full recovery usually takes place within a week. It is important for patients with gastric balloon to reorganize their eating habits and continue their program with the support of a dietician.
After gastric balloon placement, significant changes in eating habits are required. For the first few days, patients are recommended to eat only liquid foods. During this period, liquid foods such as water, soup and yogurt can be consumed. Within a week, soft foods can be switched to soft foods and solid foods can be started over time. However, portions should be kept small and a healthy, balanced diet should be preferred. Fiber-rich foods, protein-rich foods and plenty of water consumption are recommended, while carbonated drinks and high-calorie, fatty foods should be avoided. A nutrition program accompanied by a dietician will increase the success of gastric balloon treatment.
For the gastric balloon application, the person must be at least 18 years old and have completed his/her physical development. Children and young adults cannot benefit from the gastric balloon procedure because the stomach and digestive system are still in the developmental stage in this age group. However, there is no upper age limit for older adults. Considering the general health status and weight loss goals of the person, there is no age restriction for the application. Anyone in good health can use this method.
Gastric balloon application is suitable for all individuals who are uncomfortable with their excess weight, who want to lose weight for health or aesthetic reasons and whose health condition does not prevent this application. However, gastric balloon application may not be recommended depending on some health conditions. For this reason, the general health status and medical history of the person are important factors that will determine whether he/she is suitable for the application. This procedure requires personalized evaluation and doctor's approval.
It usually takes 10-15 minutes to insert the gastric balloon into the stomach. This is performed through an endoscopic procedure and the duration may vary depending on the patient's general state of health. During the procedure, the patient may be under mild sedation, which makes the procedure more comfortable.
Recovery after gastric balloon insertion is usually quick because the procedure is not a surgical intervention. The patient is discharged immediately after the procedure and can return to normal daily activities. In the first few days, symptoms such as mild pain, nausea, vomiting and cramping may occur; this is normal as the gastric balloon adapts to the stomach. These symptoms are usually temporary and can be managed with gentle treatment methods.
The gastric balloon does not burst; however, in very rare cases, perforation of the balloon can occur if the stomach secretes excess acid. If the patient notices a bluish discoloration of the urine, this may be a sign that the balloon is leaking or bursting. In this case, it is important to consult a doctor immediately.
Gastric balloons are used safely around the world and are made of medical grade silicone material, making them harmless to the body. The balloon inserted into the stomach may cause mild side effects during gastric adaptation, but these side effects are usually short-lived and can be easily managed with appropriate treatment.
The permanence of the gastric balloon application depends on the patient's eating habits and willpower. During the time the balloon is in the stomach, mild weight loss can be achieved if the patient develops regular and healthy eating habits. If these new eating habits are maintained after the balloon is removed, the results may be permanent. However, if the patient returns to old habits, the stomach may enlarge and the weight may be regained.
Gastric balloon removal is performed through an endoscopic procedure. First, the air or fluid inside the balloon placed in the stomach is drained, then the balloon is removed endoscopically through the mouth. This procedure usually takes about 15 minutes and usually does not require any hospitalization.
General anesthesia is usually used when inserting a gastric balloon. This ensures that the patient is completely comfortable and does not feel any discomfort during the procedure. Since the patient is unconscious during the procedure, general anesthesia does not cause any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
The treatments will be carried out at contracted healthcare institutions holding international health tourism authorization licenses.
