The gastric balloon procedure is a non-surgical, minimally invasive option for individuals seeking significant weight loss. It helps patients reduce their food intake and supports long-term lifestyle changes for healthier living. At VIVE Bariatrics, the gastric balloon is an excellent solution for those who prefer a non-permanent weight loss method without undergoing surgery. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how the gastric balloon procedure works and what you can expect throughout the process.
1. What is the Gastric Balloon?
The gastric balloon is a soft, silicone balloon that is inserted into the stomach to limit food intake and make you feel full sooner. Once placed, the balloon occupies space in the stomach, reducing hunger and helping you eat smaller portions. This method promotes weight loss by controlling appetite and encouraging healthier eating habits.
Unlike surgical weight loss procedures, the gastric balloon is temporary, typically remaining in the stomach for six months. After this period, it is removed, and patients continue their weight loss journey through diet and lifestyle changes.
2. Step-by-Step Guide to the Gastric Balloon Procedure
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your weight loss journey begins with an in-depth consultation with your bariatric specialist at VIVE Bariatrics. During this meeting, your doctor will assess your medical history, weight loss goals, and suitability for the gastric balloon procedure. This is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions and learn more about how the procedure works.
Eligibility Criteria:
- A body mass index (BMI) of 30-40
- Inability to achieve significant weight loss through diet and exercise alone
- Commitment to lifestyle changes, including diet and physical activity
Step 2: Pre-Procedure Preparation
Before the gastric balloon placement, your doctor may recommend a short-term diet to help prepare your stomach for the procedure. This diet usually involves:
- High-protein, low-carbohydrate meals to reduce liver size
- Increased water intake for hydration
- Avoiding solid foods for at least 12 hours before the procedure
This preparation helps ensure the placement goes smoothly and reduces the risk of complications during the procedure.
Step 3: Balloon Placement (Non-Surgical Procedure)
The gastric balloon procedure itself is straightforward and typically takes about 20-30 minutes. It is performed endoscopically, meaning no incisions are required.
Here’s how the placement works:
- Sedation or Anesthesia: The doctor sedates you to ensure comfort during the procedure, using mild sedation to keep you relaxed but awake
- Insertion: The doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope through your mouth into your stomach. The deflated balloon is placed in your stomach using this tube.
- Balloon Inflation: Once in place, the balloon is inflated with a saline solution. The exact volume can be adjusted to fit your individual needs, typically taking up about one-third of your stomach’s volume.
- Completion: Once the balloon is fully inflated, the endoscope is carefully removed, and the procedure is complete.
After the balloon is in place, you will be monitored briefly to ensure there are no immediate complications. Most patients go home the same day.
3. Recovery and Adjustment Period
The First Few Days:
- After the procedure, you may experience nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort as your body adjusts to the balloon. These symptoms are common but usually subside after a few days. Your doctor may prescribe medication to help manage these side effects.
Dietary Guidelines:
- For the first week, your diet will consist mainly of liquids to allow your stomach to adjust to the balloon. Gradually, you’ll transition to soft foods and then solid foods over the next few weeks.
- Week 1: Clear liquids, including water, broth, and electrolyte drinks
- Week 2: Smoothies, pureed foods, and soups
- Week 3: Soft solids like eggs, yogurt, and cooked vegetables
- Week 4 Onward: Transition to regular solid foods in smaller portions
4. Living with the Gastric Balloon
Ongoing Weight Loss:
- The gastric balloon encourages portion control and reduces hunger, helping you lose weight steadily over the six-month period. However, for long-term success, you’ll need to adopt healthier eating habits and stay committed to regular exercise.
- Most patients lose between 20-50 pounds during the time the balloon is in place, but results vary depending on your adherence to diet and exercise.
Support and Monitoring:
- At VIVE Bariatrics, we provide ongoing support through regular check-ups to track your progress and adjust your diet and exercise plan as needed. Our team of experts, including dietitians and fitness coaches, will work with you to ensure you achieve your weight loss goals.
5. Balloon Removal: What to Expect
Timing:
- The gastric balloon is typically removed after six months. At this point, you’ll have developed new eating habits and seen significant weight loss.
Removal Process:
- Similar to the placement, the removal is a non-surgical procedure performed endoscopically. You will be sedated, and the balloon will be deflated and removed using the endoscope.
Post-Removal Diet:
- After the balloon is removed, you’ll need to continue with your healthy eating and exercise habits to maintain your weight loss. The team at VIVE Bariatrics will continue to support you through this transition and provide guidance on sustaining your progress.
6. Long-Term Success After the Gastric Balloon
While the gastric balloon itself is temporary, the habits you build during the six-month period are designed to support long-term weight loss. The procedure serves as a tool to jump-start your weight loss journey, but the key to success lies in your commitment to healthier choices.
Diet and Exercise:
- A balanced diet rich in proteins, vegetables, and whole grains will help you maintain your weight loss. Regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or gym workouts, will also be crucial in achieving your long-term goals.
Follow-Up Care:
- VIVE Bariatrics will schedule regular follow-up appointments after the removal of the balloon to monitor your progress and help you stay on track with your weight management plan.
Conclusion
The gastric balloon procedure is an excellent option for those seeking a non-surgical approach to weight loss. By taking up space in the stomach, it helps reduce food intake, control hunger, and promote healthier eating habits. With proper preparation, a commitment to lifestyle changes, and ongoing support, the gastric balloon can be an effective step toward achieving your weight loss goals. If you’re considering the gastric balloon, schedule a consultation at VIVE Bariatrics to learn more about how this procedure can benefit you.