Intragastric balloon placement is a weight-loss procedure that involves placing a saline-filled silicone balloon into your stomach. This helps you lose weight by limiting how much you can eat and making you feel fuller faster. If you are concerned about your weight, and diet with exercise haven’t worked for you, the intragastric balloon surgery may be an option.
Similar to other weight-loss procedures, an intragastric balloon procedure necessitates commitment to a healthier lifestyle. You need to make permanent healthy changes to your diet and get regular exercise in order to maintain the long-term success of the procedure.
The intragastric balloon is designed to assist with weight loss in people who have 10 to 30 kilograms of weight to lose. The minimum BMI is 27.
It is also used for people who are not suitable for other forms of weight loss surgery. The use of the intragastric balloon may assist in reducing weight prior to surgery, therefore reducing the risks associated with surgical procedures on overweight patients.
Some discomfort during the first few days after the procedure is common, however this should dissipate if you follow the portion size recommendations provided by your doctor and dietitian. You may be able to feel the balloon when you palpate (gently press down) your stomach.
You will be provided with specific dietary advice from our expert team of dietitians. Around the time of insertion, adjustment or removal, your diet will be restricted, however outside of these periods, you are able to enjoy most foods without concern.
Some foods may cause symptoms, such as spicy, rich/ fatty or tough foods which don’t break down. Red meat and especially steak may cause indigestion. Fish and chicken are generally fine. Fibrous vegetables should be cooked until soft.
The Orbera gastric balloon is placed in the stomach for 6 months, while the Spatz3 adjustable gastric balloon is placed in the stomach for 12 months. Should your doctor recommend use of the balloon for longer periods, it is necessary that the balloon be replaced with a new one at the six or 12 month interval.
The gastric balloon is removed in the same way it was placed, via the oesophagus and mouth using an endoscopic camera. Your doctor introduces a catheter (tube) through the mouth and into the stomach, attaching it to the balloon for deflation. Once the balloon is deflated it can be grasped and removed through the oesophagus and mouth.
