Endoscopic Gastric Balloon
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Houston and Katy
A gastric balloon aims to help you feel full after consuming small meals and reduces the feeling of hunger. Using an endoscope under sedation, a soft balloon is inserted into your stomach through your mouth. This procedure usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. The balloon is then filled with saline solution to partially fill your stomach, leaving less room for large amounts of food or drink. A gastric balloon is designed to be a temporary weight loss solution and will usually be removed after six months. Orbera or the gastric balloon is ideal for patients who have a BMI less than 35 and need to lose less than 50 pounds.
Contents
Before and After Photos
Gastric Balloon Procedure Houston
A saline filled gastric balloon is inserted into your stomach through your mouth under sedation. It is a relatively minor procedure, but it may take your stomach a few days to weeks to adjust to the balloon. You will usually be able to go home the same day. Also known as an intragastric balloon, this type of weight loss treatment can help you lose weight without invasive surgery. This procedure does not require any surgical incisions, nor do patients need to undergo general anesthesia. Placement and removal typically take just 30 minutes and completed on an outpatient basis.
In a small number of cases, patients may not be able to tolerate the balloon for the full six (6) month period due to the possible side effects of nausea and vomiting which may worsen resulting in early removal of the gastric balloon.
Following the Procedure
There will be discomfort during the first few days after the procedure. From then on, the gastric balloon will give you a feeling of fullness. For the first week of the procedure you should not plan any heavy activities. Once your body has adjusted to the balloon you can continue your normal activities. Starting a regular exercise program is highly recommended and will improve your success.
A combination of sound nutrition and exercise is critical to success of the balloon and in learning new lifestyle skills.
You will meet with your nutritionist at least once a month, during the first six months while the balloon is in place and then bi-monthly once the balloon is removed, for an additional six months.
Potential Side Effects with the Intragastric Balloon
It is very likely that the presence of the balloon in the stomach will cause nausea or vomiting for a few days after placement, the intensity of which can vary. Our clinic will prescribe medication to help minimize these potential effects, but these can persist during the first few days.
There exists the possibility that you will lose only a small amount of weight, of course, your commitment to dietary and behavioural changes will determine your success.
FAQ
How is a gastric balloon placed?
No surgery is required. The gastric balloon procedure is performed with a camera (endoscopically) by inserting a deflated silicone balloon into the stomach. This balloon is then filled with saline and remains in the stomach, where it takes up room and allows the patient to feel full faster. Since this procedure is performed endoscopically, you are able to return home in a few hours and resume normal activities the next day.
How much does a gastric balloon cost?
The gastric balloon procedure is not covered by medical insurance. The cost of the gastric balloon ranges from $6,750 to $8,250 and this includes: Cost of Balloon Implant, Placement and Removal of Balloon, Clinical Follow up, Anesthesia Fee, Facility Fee.
How quickly will I recover from the gastric balloon procedure?
As a minimally invasive procedure, the gastric balloon placement is completed very quickly and a patient can return home the same day. Patients can even return to work promptly, with resulting nausea being the only potential cause for delay in the recovery time.
Gastric Balloon in Houston
Every patient faces unique situations, and we work closely with each individual to determine appropriate options that align with a patient’s goal. Schedule a consultation now to discuss your options with Dr. Bonnor.