Intragastric balloons are safely used worldwide in individuals with obesity or overweight. Complications are very rare and may be easily treated. Nausea, vomiting, and cramps may occur during the first 2 or 3 days after the placement of the balloon.
Certain medications are prescribed prior to hospital discharge to prevent such complications from occurring. Such symptoms disappear after the first 2 or 3 days. The risk of a balloon rupture is not common. But the liquid inside the balloon may leak.
The leak and deflation of the balloon may be easily detected by the blue color of the urine as the balloon is inflated with methylene blue. If you notice such a color change, please contact your doctor immediately for the balloon to be checked endoscopically and removed if necessary.
The procedure is simple, fast, and non-invasive. Meaning there is no downtime. After your doctor inserts the balloon in your stomach, you can leave the hospital. Expect to experience a mild sore throat because of the tube insertion.
Expect full recovery after 3 - 4 days from the procedure. You can return to work one week after the procedure. Follow your doctor's dietary guidelines.
Most patients report a high satisfaction rate, and gastric balloon surgery has a success rate of 75%
The procedure is simple and fast, lasts between 15 and 20 minutes, and does not require hospitalization. Intragastric balloon treatment lasts 6 or 12 months. After this time, the balloon is removed with almost the same procedure. The average weight loss with the gastric balloon is between 20 - 25 kg.
However, it is possible to lose more or less weight depending on the tolerance of each patient to the balloon and the consistency of the same concerning the diet that the medical team has designated.
What Is the Gastric Balloon For?
The gastric balloon is a silicone balloon that is placed in the stomach, to intervene in the satiety receptors and give the patient a feeling of fullness in less time, limiting food intake and causing weight loss.
How Much Weight Will I Lose with Gastric Balloon?
The proper rate to lose weight in any treatment for obesity should be around 1 kg a week. The degree of weight loss achievement will depend on the strict following of the post-operative diet.
Will I Gain Weight Again Later?
You will have a better chance of maintaining weight loss after removing the balloon if you maintain the habits acquired in your diet and eating behavior during the use of the balloon.