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Obalon Gastric Balloon

Gastric balloons are soft silicone, balloon-shaped, weight-loss devices. The gastric balloon procedure is reversible and non-surgical! Gastric balloons are placed inside the stomach through the mouth. Once placed in your stomach, the gastric balloon will reduce the amount of food your stomach can hold, allowing you to feel full more quickly. At Minimally Invasive and Bariatrics Surgery (MIB), we are one of the leading practices in south florida offering gastric balloons such as Orbera™ Managed Weight Loss Program, and the Obalon Balloon Capsule for weight loss.

ORBERA Gastric Balloon  Q & A
How Do Obalon Gastric Balloons Work?
The purpose of gastric balloons is to kickstart your weight-loss journey and enhance the maintainability of your long-term weight loss. Gastric balloons are non-surgical and less invasive than bariatric surgery. The Obalon Balloon System helps facilitate weight loss by taking up space in your stomach so you eat less. During treatment you should receive professional nutrition and exercise support to help you make the lifestyle changes that promote weight loss.
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The balloon comes deflated in a capsule that you swallow. When in the stomach, it is then inflated using a special gas. The balloon system will remain in a patient’s stomach for up to six months. The addition of a gastric balloon in the stomach will promote the feeling of fullness, decreasing the feeling of hunger.
Do I Qualify for a Gastric Balloon?

If you answer “yes” to all the questions below, you may qualify!

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  • Are you between the ages 18 and 60?

  • Do you have a BMI of 27 or higher?

  • Do you have no esophageal injuries or problems with bowels and intestines?

  • Are you not pregnant?

  • Are you aware of the risks, side effects, and complications?

  • Do you agree to make the necessary lifestyle changes?

  • Can you commit to a healthy and active lifestyle?

 

Advantages of gastric balloons:

  • Feel fuller with less food

  • It does not require a hospital stay because it’s not a surgery as compared to other bariatric procedures and it does not involve cutting or pain.

  • Intestines are not rerouted

  • Patients generally lose 20 to 75 pounds by the end of the 6 months that the gastric balloon is in place

  • Can improve obesity-related health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea

  • Along with a healthy lifestyle, patients can lose weight and keep the weight off

  • It is a temporary treatment with long-lasting results.

Disadvantages of gastric balloons:

  • Gastric discomfort, nausea and vomiting.

  • Pain in the back or abdomen

  • Gastro–esophageal reflux or indigestion may also occur

  • Theoretically, the balloon could rupture, which would be safely expelled naturally.

Before the procedure: 

Follow the two-week pre-procedure diet as prescribed. Also, don’t eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight before your procedure—otherwise, your procedure will be cancelled. Chewing gum or taking certain medications may also result in a cancelation of your procedure.

Day of the procedure:

With the Capsule balloon, the endoscopy may not be needed the first time. If your doctor observes no abnormalities, they will proceed with giving you sample balloon capsules to practice the placement. You will then swallow the capsule containing the balloon and the doctor will confirm that it is in the stomach. Once in the stomach, the balloon will be inflated through a small tube attached to the gastric balloon. Your doctor will then remove this small tube. Placement takes approximately 25 minutes. After which, you’ll be released to return home. You have this repeated for up to 3 balloons to maximize weight loss.

After the procedure:

Patients are generally able to return to work immediately. Recovery is not painful; however, some patients experience nausea and gastric discomfort. This is normal because your body is adjusting to the balloon in your body. Do not hesitate to ask your doctor or nurse about any issues you experience.

 

Our team at Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery will be by your side at every step of the way. Attend follow-up visits and stick to the dietary and exercise regimen you and your doctor have discussed.

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