Swallowable Gastric Balloon

By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Prof. Cuneyt Kayaalp, on Apr 21, 2024

What Is a Swallowable Gastric Balloon?

A swallowable gastric balloon is an outpatient procedure for patients seeking non-invasive procedures to lose weight.  

You swallow a capsule; once the doctor confirms the capsule position via X-ray, the doctor will fill the capsule with saline via catheter, and then the catheter is removed.

The balloon limits your stomach capacity, meaning you will eat less food. And once you reach your targeted body weight, the capsule will pass through you naturally, and your body will get rid of it like a bodily waste.

 

Elipse Swallowable Gastric Balloon Alternative Treatments

If you're unhappy with swallowable gastric balloon results, you can consider more invasive procedures:

• Gastric Bypass
• Gastric Sleeve
• Gastric Band 

Swallowable Gastric Balloon Recovery Time

The recovery from an elipse swallowable gastric balloon placement is a couple of days with most people returning to work within two days. However, patients should be on the lookout for some discomfort such as abdominal pain, discomfort, bloating, and cramping. 

 

How Does Swallowable Gastric Balloon Procedure Work?

The whole procedure is completed in 20 minutes during an outpatient appointment. You swallow a capsule that contains a deflated balloon. Once the doctor confirms the capsule position via X-ray, the doctor will fill the capsule with saline via catheter; the catheter is removed.

What To Expect After Swallowable Pill Gastric Balloon Treatment? 

• You will lose 80% of your weight in the first three months. 
• The balloon will stay in your stomach for 16 weeks; after the allocated period, a time-activated release valve on the balloon will open and empty the saline inside the balloon.
• After deflation, the balloon will naturally pass your body via the gastrointestinal tract.
• Expect nausea and stomach cramps in the first few days until your body adapts to the balloon placement. 
• Your doctor will prescribe medication to remedy the nausea symptoms. 

Cosmetic Procedures Related To Weight Loss Surgery 

Cosmetic procedures that may help improve your appearance after a weight loss surgery are:

• 360 Abdominoplasty
• Breast lift
• Neck Lift
• Arm Lift
• Thigh Lift

Side Effects of Swallowable Gastric Balloon Treatment

The most common side effects after a swallowable gastric balloon treatment in Turkey are:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Cramping
• Abdominal pain

However, these symptoms are only seen during the first seven days after recovery and resolve spontaneously. In case, a patient is unable to tolerate the side effects, then the decision to remove the gastric balloon will be made. But, this is very rare and only done for 1-2 percent of the total cases. 

How To Prepare For Swallowable Gastric Balloon Procedure?

• Ask a loved one to accompany you to help you during the recovery process.
• Read about the procedure and the pros and cons of the swallowable gastric balloon in Turkey so that you can make an informed decision about getting the procedure done. 
• Talk to your surgeon about any concerns or worries
• Talk to your primary care doctor to adjust the doses of any medications that you may be on. 
• Have a lengthy talk with your surgeon and dietician to understand the post-surgical lifestyle changes you will need to make to maintain the weight loss. It is important to understand how strict the lifestyle changes will be as they require strong willpower and commitment. If you are unable to commit, let your doctor know. 

Swallowable Gastric Balloon Quick Facts

Procedure	Swallowable gastric balloon
Duration	20 minutes
Stay	2 - 3 nights
Cost in Turkey	€2500
Anesthesia	None
Recovery	Immediate
Final Results	3 months
Side Effects	Nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting
Success Rate	70% - 80%
Exercise	After 3 days
Back To Work	After 2 days
Scars	No
Pain	No
Related Procedures	Gastric Balloon, Gastric Band

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a gastric balloon burst?

Swallowable gastric balloon in Turkey is a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure that has certain risks associated with them, including but not limited to, rupture. 

Can you fly with a gastric balloon?

Elipse swallowable gastric balloon is completely safe to fly with and there is no major risk associated with flying. However, you can expect some temporary bloating and cramping when flying with a swallowable gastric balloon from Turkey.

Can a gastric balloon be permanent?

Swallowable gastric balloon in Turkey is not a permanent solution for weight loss. Once it is removed, the weight loss needs to be maintained strictly to prevent weight gain. 

Can I walk after the gastric balloon?

Yes, walking after getting a swallowable gastric balloon is completely fine and even encouraged. 

How much does a swallowable gastric balloon cost?

Swallowable gastric balloon cost in Turkey €2500.

Do swallowable gastric balloons work?

Yes, swallowable gastric balloon works; most patients report they lose about 70% - 80% of their weight in the first three months. 

Can a gastric balloon fail?

A swallowable gastric balloon has low risks; even if it bursts or deflates, the liquid saline is harmless because it is made of water. The balloon will pass your body via the gastrointestinal tract.

Can you get a second gastric balloon?

Yes, you can have a second balloon placed if you have yet to reach your weight loss goals after the initial 6-month balloon treatment.