A gastric balloon aims to reduce feelings of hunger and help you feel fuller for longer after eating only small meals. Also known as an intragastric balloon, this type of weight loss treatment can help you lose weight without invasive surgery. One type of gastric balloon is known as Orbera™.
During the procedure a soft balloon is inserted into your stomach through your mouth, using an endoscope (a thin, flexible telescope). The balloon is then filled with saline solution to partially fill your stomach, leaving less room for large amounts of food or drink. A gastric balloon is designed to be a temporary weight loss solution, and will usually be removed after six months. It is sometimes used to help you lose enough weight to undergo gastric banding or gastric bypass surgery.
About the gastric balloon procedure
Gastric balloons are inserted under sedation in a procedure which takes 20 to 30 minutes. It is a relatively minor procedure, but it may take your stomach a little while to get used to the balloon. You will usually be able to go home the same day, or the day after the balloon has been inserted.
In a small number of cases, patients may not be able to tolerate the balloon for the full 6 month period and when this happens, it will need to be removed early. There is a possibility this may happen in the first few days after the balloon is placed, if side effects (including nausea and vomiting) do not resolve or are worse than anticipated.
Having a gastric balloon inserted at a Spire hospital means you will be treated by an experienced specialist who will discuss your options and the best course of treatment for you before going ahead. Our team of dieticians and specialist nurses will look after you throughout your stay and provide support and advice after treatment.
You can expect to be treated in a premium private hospital at a location of your choice, and be safe in the knowledge that Spire is committed to your safety with exceptional healthcare standards and cleanliness.
To find out more about this procedure and to book a consultation, please contact your nearest Spire Hospital offering weight loss treatment.