Gastric Balloon

A gastric balloon is a weight loss procedure that involves placing a saline-filled silicone balloon in your stomach, making you feel fuller faster for effective weight loss.

As this kind of surgery is reversible and minimally invasive, it usually doesn’t require hospitalization. It is a highly recommended option for patients wanting to prevent the following types of diseases:

Metabolic.
Respiratory.
Digestive.

Do you want your face and body to be the maximum reflection of harmony and beauty? Trust Bellphoria.

Our specialized doctors will give you the necessary advice – in a practical, ethical, and honest way – so that you can choose the best option according to your needs and expectations

FAQ

Who’s A Good Candidate For Gastric Balloon Surgery?

The patients who can benefit from this type of operation are those with the following characteristics:

Mild to moderate obesity (type I or II).
Who have tried dietary treatments without success.
Have a desire to prevent the risk of metabolic or heart diseases.

On the other hand, among the criteria that the bariatric surgeon evaluates to determine if a patient is the right candidate, the following stand out:

Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30 and 40, who have failed to achieve a substantial or constant weight loss through exercises and diets.
Age 15 and over (some minors may qualify for the procedure).
Overweight issues for more than 5 years.
Willingness and determination to implement and sustain new long-term eating habits.

Gastric Balloon Procedure Steps

The gastric balloon procedure is performed by endoscopy, through which a silicone balloon is inserted into the stomach; once inside, the balloon is filled up with an isotonic saline serum until reaching a specific volume (up to 400-700 cubic inches). The balloon’s size depends on the type of obesity that the patient has and its goals.

Approximate surgery duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Sedation method: Local or general anesthesia. The patient does not perceive any pain or discomfort.

What To Expect After A Gastric Balloon Surgery?
After the operation, it’s normal to experience the following:

The body will recognize the gastric balloon as a strange object, which means that the adaptation process can cause discomforts such as vomiting and nausea within 2 to 3 days after the surgery.
It’s essential to follow a special diet that includes smaller portions of food. Initially, the patient will ingest only liquid foods, then semi-solid, and – commonly after the first month – solid foods begin to be incorporated into the diet as long as the patient’s tolerance allows it.

The scars left after a laparoscopy are smaller and less painful than those of an open surgical treatment; complications, pain, or excessive bleeding risks are very low.

Postoperative Care

Patients are recommended to walk for a few minutes a day.
Avoid carrying heavy objects or practicing high impact activities.
Strictly follow the dietary guideline indicated by the doctor.
Go to monthly medical reviews so that the doctor can evaluate the evolution of the surgery.

What Are The Benefits Of A Gastric Balloon?
The gastric balloon will help you regain control of your life when it comes to food, allowing you to incorporate new and better-eating habits into your day-to-day routine. Other benefits that you can expect are the following:

It’s a reversible surgery, which means that the balloon can be removed at any time.
It’s a safe, fast, and simple procedure.
It is a highly effective treatment when done following a proper diet and exercise plan.
It helps you get a better life quality. Apart from reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases, the patient can experience a renewed self-esteem and feel happier.

Candidates

Who’s A Good Candidate For Gastric Balloon Surgery?

The patients who can benefit from this type of operation are those with the following characteristics:

Mild to moderate obesity (type I or II).
Who have tried dietary treatments without success.
Have a desire to prevent the risk of metabolic or heart diseases.

On the other hand, among the criteria that the bariatric surgeon evaluates to determine if a patient is the right candidate, the following stand out:

Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30 and 40, who have failed to achieve a substantial or constant weight loss through exercises and diets.
Age 15 and over (some minors may qualify for the procedure).
Overweight issues for more than 5 years.
Willingness and determination to implement and sustain new long-term eating habits.

Procedure

Gastric Balloon Procedure Steps

The gastric balloon procedure is performed by endoscopy, through which a silicone balloon is inserted into the stomach; once inside, the balloon is filled up with an isotonic saline serum until reaching a specific volume (up to 400-700 cubic inches). The balloon’s size depends on the type of obesity that the patient has and its goals.

Approximate surgery duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Sedation method: Local or general anesthesia. The patient does not perceive any pain or discomfort.

Recovery

What To Expect After A Gastric Balloon Surgery?
After the operation, it’s normal to experience the following:

The body will recognize the gastric balloon as a strange object, which means that the adaptation process can cause discomforts such as vomiting and nausea within 2 to 3 days after the surgery.
It’s essential to follow a special diet that includes smaller portions of food. Initially, the patient will ingest only liquid foods, then semi-solid, and – commonly after the first month – solid foods begin to be incorporated into the diet as long as the patient’s tolerance allows it.

The scars left after a laparoscopy are smaller and less painful than those of an open surgical treatment; complications, pain, or excessive bleeding risks are very low.

Postoperative Care

Patients are recommended to walk for a few minutes a day.
Avoid carrying heavy objects or practicing high impact activities.
Strictly follow the dietary guideline indicated by the doctor.
Go to monthly medical reviews so that the doctor can evaluate the evolution of the surgery.

Benefits

What Are The Benefits Of A Gastric Balloon?
The gastric balloon will help you regain control of your life when it comes to food, allowing you to incorporate new and better-eating habits into your day-to-day routine. Other benefits that you can expect are the following:

It’s a reversible surgery, which means that the balloon can be removed at any time.
It’s a safe, fast, and simple procedure.
It is a highly effective treatment when done following a proper diet and exercise plan.
It helps you get a better life quality. Apart from reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases, the patient can experience a renewed self-esteem and feel happier.

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