Intra Gastric Balloon Placement for Weight Loss
An intra-gastric balloon is a small balloon that is placed inside the stomach and expanded to occupy space. This not only triggers feelings of fullness, but prevents patients from taking in large quantities of food at a single setting. Gastric balloons are not a permanent solution to weight loss, as they must be removed from the stomach after no more than six months. However, many patients continue to lose and keep off weight long after receiving a gastric balloon in Orange County due to changes in lifestyle.
Did you know that Orange County intra-gastric balloon procedures are performed minimally invasively? During the procedure, a deflated balloon is inserted into the stomach through an endoscope. It is then inflated with saline until the balloon reaches an ideal size. The entire procedure is typically performed in just 30 minutes or less while a patient is under sedation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gastric Balloon Surgery
Who is a good candidate for a gastric balloon in Orange County?
The gastric balloon is often indicated for patients who have not had success with diet and exercise alone, but cannot or will not undergo bariatric surgery. This includes individuals with a body mass index of 40 or more, as well as patients with a BMI of between 30 and 40 accompanied by weight-related health problems. In fact, gastric ballooning opens creates a new option for obese patients with BMIs too low to qualify for bariatric weight loss surgery in Orange County.
How much weight can I expect to lose with the gastric balloon procedure?
Clinical trials have shown gastric balloon patients lose an average of between 26 and 46 percent of excess weight. Ultimately, the amount of weight you lose will depend on your long term commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Many patients successfully use the gastric balloon to kick-start weight loss, which may be maintained and improved with diet and exercise.
What should I expect after receiving my gastric balloon?
Orange County gastric balloon procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and require minimal recovery time compared to other bariatric weight loss procedures. Most patients will experience some cramping and discomfort in the first few days after surgery. This should quickly subside, however, yielding to a feeling of satiety. You may be able to return to work after a few days, taking care to avoid heavy lifting for a week. Expect to feel less hungry while the balloon is in place.
You will eventually return to your surgeon to have the balloon removed – typically through an endoscope in the same way it was placed. Gastric balloon removal is performed under sedation or anesthesia, requiring just 20 minutes to complete.
