The gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss method that reduces appetite by placing a silicone balloon in the stomach. It helps with portion control and supports healthy weight loss. At First Class Esthetic, we offer safe and effective gastric balloon treatments.
What is Gastric Balloon?
As the name suggests, a gastric balloon is a balloon-shaped, blue medical-grade silicone material filled with liquid or air. This balloon is inserted into the stomach through an endoscopic procedure and inflated. The gastric balloon is especially applied for people with a body mass index between 27-40 who want to lose weight without surgery. The balloon is inserted into the stomach and narrows the stomach volume, causing the person to eat less food. In addition, the fact that the balloon narrows the stomach and slows down the passage of food helps to reduce the feeling of hunger and stay full longer. The success of the gastric balloon procedure usually depends on the patient regulating their daily calorie intake with the help of a nutritionist.
The duration of use of the gastric balloon may vary according to the patient’s body mass index, targeted weight loss and eating habits. In general, the gastric balloon can remain in the stomach for 4.5-6 months or 1 year. As a result of the application, 15-30% of the current body weight can be lost in a short time. The main goal here is fat loss and this depends on the personal will of the patient, the treating specialist and the supporting nutritionist. After the gastric balloon is removed, the results can be permanent if the patient maintains these new eating habits.
Women body fat belly front view
What Should Be Done Before Gastric Balloon Placement?
Before a gastric balloon is inserted, the patient must undergo a detailed medical check-up. This helps the doctor to assess whether the patient is suitable for a gastric balloon. Patients are usually asked to fast for several hours before insertion and the stomach must be empty to ensure safe insertion of the gastric balloon during endoscopy. In some cases, the use of certain medications may be stopped before the procedure. It is also important that patients are informed about their habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol, and that they talk to their doctor about the preparations they should make before the procedure.
How is a Gastric Balloon Inserted?
The gastric balloon is inserted through an endoscopic procedure. During the procedure, the patient is given a mild sedation and an empty balloon is inserted into the stomach with a device called an endoscope. After reaching the stomach, the balloon is inflated with a sterile solution. The procedure can usually be performed in outpatient clinic conditions, not in an operating room setting, allowing the patient to return home the same day. Once in the stomach, the insertion of a gastric balloon helps with weight loss by suppressing appetite.
How Long Does the Insertion of the Gastric Balloon Take?
Gastric balloon placement is a quick and simple procedure that usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. During the procedure, the patient receives a mild sedation, which makes them comfortable throughout the procedure. This endoscopic procedure involves inserting a balloon into the stomach through an endoscope. Once the balloon reaches the stomach, it is inflated with sterile saline solution, providing the required volume. The patient is kept under observation shortly after the procedure is completed and is usually discharged the same day.
What are the Types of Gastric Balloon?
Medsil Balloon: Produced by Russian manufacturers and is one of the most widely used gastric balloons in Turkey. This balloon, which can usually stay in the body for 6 months, has a high sealing rate.
Orbera Balloon: It is an American brand and can stay in the stomach for 12 months. This type of balloon is suitable for patients aiming for long-term weight loss.
Spatz 3 Balloon: the only type of balloon that can be inflated and deflated as needed after being placed in the stomach. This type of balloon can remain in the stomach for 12 months and can be adjusted according to individual needs thanks to its flexibility.
Allurion Elliptical Balloon: the only type of balloon that can be swallowed and inserted into the stomach. This balloon can be inserted without anesthesia or endoscopy. After 4-5 months it dissolves in the stomach and is naturally excreted from the body, which means no extraction is needed.
What are the Differences Between Gastric Balloon and Surgical Methods?
A gastric balloon is a non-surgical method used for weight loss. The balloon is placed endoscopically in the stomach and takes up volume, allowing less food to be consumed. Other differences between surgical methods are;
Temporary Application
Gastric balloon is a temporary solution, it usually stays in the stomach for a period of 6-12 months. Surgical methods, on the other hand, are permanent and irreversible as they change the stomach structure.
Risk Level
Gastric balloon carries a lower risk than surgical methods and post-procedure complications are generally milder. Surgical procedures, on the other hand, carry the risk of anesthesia and more serious complications.
Recovery Time
The healing process is faster in gastric balloon application and patients can return to their normal lives usually within a week. In surgical methods, the recovery process may be longer and more challenging.
Duration of Effect
Surgical methods usually provide more permanent and long-term weight loss. Since the gastric balloon is a temporary treatment, weight control should be maintained with diet and lifestyle changes after the balloon is removed.
In Which Situations Is Gastric Balloon (Gastric Balloon) Preferred?
Gastric balloon is suitable for people who cannot lose weight with diet and sports, do not want surgery or are not suitable for surgery for medical reasons. It is also a suitable weight loss option for people with a body mass index between 27-40. Especially in individuals who need to lose weight, weight loss can sometimes be achieved before surgery by placing a gastric balloon.
Woman, hand or holding stomach fat for liposuction, weight loss or cosmetic surgery procedure on is
When Can a Gastric Balloon (Gastric Balloon) Not Be Placed?
Gastric balloon application should not be performed in pregnant women, individuals receiving cortisone therapy, people with stomach diseases such as ulcers, gastritis, cancer and people with a body mass index below 27. In addition, people who have previously undergone stomach surgery and people with blood clotting disorders are not suitable for this procedure.
What is the Recovery Process After Gastric Balloon?
In the first few days after the gastric balloon is inserted, side effects such as nausea, vomiting and mild stomach pain may occur as the body adapts to the balloon. This process usually subsides within a few days and patients can return to their daily lives. Full recovery usually takes place within a week. It is important for patients with gastric balloon to reorganize their eating habits and continue their program with the support of a dietician.
How Should Nutrition Be After Gastric Balloon Placement?
After gastric balloon placement, significant changes in eating habits are required. For the first few days, patients are recommended to eat only liquid foods. During this period, liquid foods such as water, soup and yogurt can be consumed. Within a week, soft foods can be switched to soft foods and solid foods can be started over time. However, portions should be kept small and a healthy, balanced diet should be preferred. Fiber-rich foods, protein-rich foods and plenty of water consumption are recommended, while carbonated drinks and high-calorie, fatty foods should be avoided. A nutrition program accompanied by a dietician will increase the success of gastric balloon treatment.
What are the prices of Gastric Balloon in Turkey?
Gastric balloon prices in Turkey may vary depending on various factors. The main factors affecting prices include the type of gastric balloon used, the hospital or clinic where the procedure is performed, the experience of the doctor and additional services offered. The gastric balloon procedure can be performed with different types of balloons; for example, there may be price differences between adjustable balloons or standard balloons.