Gastric Balloon
(Non-surgical Weight Loss Procedure)

What is a Gastric Balloon?

Do you ever feel like your stomach is a bottomless pit, standing in the way of your weight loss efforts? You may have tried multiple diets, but nothing has worked out for you. Well, the gastric balloon might be the missing piece of your puzzle. This non-surgical procedure involves placing a soft, deflated balloon in your stomach, curbing hunger pangs, and naturally limiting your portion sizes. Imagine feeling satisfied with less, gradually reaching your weight goals, and enjoying a healthier lifestyle.

Is the Gastric Balloon Right for Me?

Although the gastric balloon procedure is nonsurgical, deciding whether it’s right for you or not depends on several factors, such as your BMI, overall health, and lifestyle. It’s important to note that gastric balloons are not magic wands, they’re just a tool to support a healthy lifestyle change. However, if you are:

• Overweight or obese (BMI 27-40)
• Tried and failed other weight-loss methods
• Committed to a healthy diet and exercise plan
• Not pregnant or breastfeeding

Then the balloon might be a good fit, but it’s crucial to consult a qualified doctor who will determine what’s right for you and what’s not.

Is the Gastric Balloon the Right Weight Loss Option for You?

Before you hop on the balloon train, consider this:

• Temporary fix: Balloons typically stay in for 6 months, requiring repeat placements.
• Dietary restrictions: You’ll need to adjust your diet to accommodate the balloon.
• Potential side effects: Nausea, vomiting, and bloating are common initially.
• Cost: Insurance coverage varies, so factor in potential out-of-pocket expenses.

How is the Balloon Implanted?

There are two main methods for the balloon implementation:

Endoscopic Balloon Implantation:

• A thin tube with a camera is inserted through your mouth and throat to guide the deflated balloon into your stomach.
• The balloon is then inflated with saline solution, filling your stomach partially.
• The tube is removed, and voila, your new internal roommate is in place!

 ‘procedureless’ Balloon Implantation

• A pill containing the deflated balloon and a fizzy tablet is swallowed.
• The tablet dissolves in your stomach, inflating the balloon.
• No tubes, no cameras, just a fizzy farewell to your bottomless pit!

How Does the Gastric Balloon Work?

The balloon takes up space in your stomach, physically limiting how much you can eat. It also triggers hormonal changes that make you feel fuller faster. Think of it as a gentle nudge towards healthier portions.

How Much Weight Can I Lose?

On average, you can expect to lose 15-25% of your initial body weight within 6 months. But remember, your commitment to healthy habits plays a crucial role in determining your ultimate results, so if you’re ready to indulge in a new healthy lifestyle, then the balloon is the right option for you.

Which Types of Balloon Are Available?

There are several types of balloons available, each one with its pros and cons. Some of these types are:

• Single balloon: The most common, offering simplicity and affordability.
• Double balloon: This may lead to greater weight loss but carries a higher risk of complications.
• Adjustable balloon: This can be adjusted in size for personalized results.

Make sure to consult a qualified doctor. When you choose the right doctor, he’ll help you choose the best option for you.  With dedication and the right approach, you can finally tame that bottomless pit and reach your weight-loss goals!

How Much Does a Gastric Balloon Cost in Turkey?

Turkey is a very popular destination for cosmetic and other procedures. It is significantly known for its professional doctors and surgeons, and affordability. In our case, the average cost of the gastric balloon in Tukey is between $1,736 and $4,500. This of course depends on a number of factors, such as the balloon’s type, the clinic, and the surgeon.

FAQs for Gastric Balloon 

How long does a gastric balloon remain in the stomach, and is it permanent?

Gastric balloons are temporary weight devices that are designed to remain in the stomach for a specific amount of time. Gastric balloon is put in the stomach for 6 to 12 months, then it gets deflated and removed. The reason for this is so the body doesn’t adjust to the balloon’s presence. This leads to more effectiveness and for the balloon to not diminish over time.

Are there any risks or potential complications associated with gastric balloons?

Gastric balloons are generally considered a safe option as it’s less invasive and non-surgical. However, just like any other procedure, there are some potential risks and complications. There are immediate risks and long-term risks.

Immediate Risks:

Nausea and vomiting

Abdominal discomfort

Heartburn

Infection

How does the mechanism of a gastric balloon promote a feeling of fullness?

Perforation: a rare but serious complication can occur if the balloon punctures the stomach wall. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, fever, and nausea.

Obstruction: In rare cases, the balloon can become lodged in the small intestine, causing an obstruction. Symptoms include constipation, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

Ulceration: The pressure of the balloon against the stomach lining can sometimes cause ulcers to develop. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Balloon deflation: In rare cases, the balloon can deflate prematurely. This is often due to a defect in the balloon material or a leak in the valve. Deflated balloons typically pass through the digestive system without causing any problems.

How is a gastric balloon inserted and removed? Is it a surgical procedure?

As we discussed before, gastric balloons promote a feeling of fullness through two primary mechanisms: restricted food intake and delayed gastric emptying. The combination of these two mechanisms mimics the natural sensations of fullness, which leads to a decrease in overall calorie consumption and weight loss.

What are the expected benefits of using a gastric balloon for weight loss?

Gastric balloon insertion and removal is a non-surgical procedure used for weight loss. The gastric balloon is inserted into the stomach through an endoscopic tube which is guided by a small camera, via the mouth. Once in place, it will remain there for up to six to twelve months, and it causes the patient to feel full more quickly after eating smaller meals. For removal of the prosthesis, another endoscopic procedure that takes less than 10 minutes and requires little sedation or anesthesia may be done to remove it from your stomach.

Breast Reduction Gallery

Are you considering or preparing for a gastric balloon mammoplasty surgery with Aesthetic Airways? If so, explore our gallery of previous patients to see the team’s work.