Gastric balloon (intragastric balloon) is a non-surgical weight loss procedure where a soft silicone balloon is placed in your stomach via endoscopy. Once positioned, it's filled with saline solution to take up space in your stomach, making you feel fuller faster and eat less. Typically left in place for 6 months, then removed. Helps you lose 10-15% of total body weight.
Placement: Sedation given. Deflated balloon inserted through mouth via endoscope. Positioned in stomach
Inflation: Balloon filled with 400-700ml sterile saline + blue dye. Takes up ~30% of stomach volume
Weight Loss: Feel full faster. Eat smaller portions. Lose weight over 6 months with diet support
Removal: After 6 months, balloon deflated and removed via endoscopy. Continue healthy habits
Procedure: 20-30 minutes
Duration: 6 months in stomach
First 3 Days: Nausea, vomiting, cramping normal. Liquid diet only. Anti-nausea medication given
Week 1-2: Adjust to balloon. Soft foods introduced. Symptoms subside. Begin losing weight
Months 2-6: Steady weight loss. Dietitian support. Learn portion control. Develop healthy eating habits. Average loss: 20-30 lbs