Intragastric Balloon

IntraGastric balloon procedures are a type of weight loss surgery. The surgery involves placing a balloon in the stomach through the mouth. Once the balloon is in place, it is inflated with saline solution. This makes the stomach smaller and helps the patient feel full faster. IntraGastric balloon procedures are typically performed as outpatient procedures and do not require any incisions.

How is a IntraGastric Balloon fitted?

Before the procedure, you will be given a general anaesthetic. This means you will be asleep during the surgery.

A tube called an endoscope is passed down your throat and into your stomach. The endoscope is a long, thin tube with a light and camera on the end. It enables the surgeon to see inside your stomach.

Once the endoscope is in place, the IntraGastric balloon is passed through the endoscope and into your stomach. The balloon is then inflated with saline solution. This takes up space in your stomach so you feel full more quickly when you eat.

The IntraGastric balloon remains in your stomach for six months. During this time, you will need to follow a strict diet and exercise programme. After six months, the IntraGastric balloon is removed in a similar way to how it was fitted.

Suitable candidates

IntraGastric balloon procedures are usually recommended for people who are obese (BMI of 30 or more) and have unsuccessfully tried to lose weight through diet and exercise. IntraGastric balloon procedures may also be an option for people who are not suitable for other types of weight loss surgery.

Things to consider

IntraGastric balloon procedures are not suitable for everyone. You may not be able to have the surgery if you have certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or stomach ulcers.

It is important to remember that IntraGastric balloon procedures are not a quick fix. The surgery is only successful if you make long-term changes to your diet and lifestyle. You will need to stick to a strict diet and exercise programme after the surgery. If you do not, you may regain any weight you lose.

Pros and cons of IntraGastric Balloon surgery

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with IntraGastric balloon procedures. These include the risk of infection, bleeding and perforation (holes) in the stomach.

The IntraGastric balloon may also move out of position. If this happens, you will need to have another endoscopy to put it back in place.

There is also a small risk that the IntraGastric balloon will burst. If this happens, you will need to have surgery to remove it.

IntraGastric balloon procedures are not suitable for everyone. You may not be able to have the surgery if you have certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or stomach ulcers.

Are there any age limits?

IntraGastric balloon procedures are usually only recommended for adults. The surgery is not suitable for children or adolescents.

How much weight will I lose?

Most people who have IntraGastric balloon procedures lose between 10% and 15% of their body weight.

How long does the procedure take?

IntraGastric balloon procedures are usually performed as outpatient procedures. This means you will be able to go home the same day as the surgery. The surgery takes around 30 minutes to an hour to complete.

Is it a painful?

You will be given a general anaesthetic before the surgery, so you will not feel any pain during the procedure.

You may experience some discomfort when the IntraGastric balloon is first inserted into your stomach. You may also have a sore throat after the surgery due to the endoscope.

These side effects should resolve within a few days.

What are the risks and complications?

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with IntraGastric balloon procedures. These include the risk of infection, bleeding and perforation (holes) in the stomach.

The IntraGastric balloon may also move out of position. If this happens, you will need to have another endoscopy to put it back in place.

There is also a small risk that the IntraGastric balloon will burst. If this happens, you will need to have surgery to remove it.

Recovery

Most people feel back to their normal self a few days after IntraGastric balloon procedures. You may have some discomfort in your stomach and a sore throat. These side effects should resolve within a few days.

You will need to follow a strict diet and exercise programme after the surgery. If you do not, you may regain any weight you lose.

You will also need to have regular check-ups with your surgeon to make sure the IntraGastric balloon is in the correct position and working properly.

When can I return to work?

You should be able to return to work within a few days of IntraGastric balloon procedures.

If your job involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity, you may need to take a few weeks off to recover.

Results

Most people who have IntraGastric balloon procedures lose between 10% and 15% of their body weight.

IntraGastric balloon procedures can help you to lose weight and reduce your risk of developing obesity-related health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

The surgery is only successful if you make long-term changes to your diet and lifestyle. You will need to stick to a strict diet and exercise programme after the surgery. If you do not, you may regain any weight you lose.

IntraGastric balloon procedures are not a quick fix. It can take up to 6 months for you to see the full results of the surgery.

Book a consultation

If you are interested in IntraGastric balloon procedures, book a consultation with a us.

During the consultation, we will assess your weight and overall health. We will also discuss your weight loss goals and expectations.

We will then be able to advise you on whether a IntraGastric balloon procedure is the right choice for you.