If you’re struggling to lose weight through diet and exercise alone, but you’re not ready for surgery, a gastric balloon could be a life-changing solution. This minimally invasive procedure offers a powerful boost to help you jumpstart your weight loss journey—without the need for permanent surgical changes.
At VIVE Bariatrics, we help patients explore every available option for safe, effective weight loss. Wondering if a gastric balloon is right for you? Let’s walk through how it works, what to expect, and who makes a good candidate.
What is a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon is a soft, durable balloon placed into your stomach through a non-surgical, endoscopic procedure. Once inside, it’s filled with saline to take up space in your stomach, helping you feel fuller with less food.
The goal is to:
- Limit portion sizes
- Reduce hunger between meals
- Encourage better eating habits
- Promote steady, healthy weight loss
Most gastric balloons stay in place for about six months, after which they are removed.
How the Gastric Balloon Procedure Works
Here’s what you can expect:
- Placement: The balloon is inserted into your stomach through your mouth using a thin, flexible tube. No incisions or stitches are required.
- Inflation: Once positioned correctly, the balloon is filled with sterile saline.
- Duration: The entire process takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and you can usually go home the same day.
Because there’s no surgery involved, recovery time is minimal, and you can resume light activities quickly.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Gastric Balloon?
You might be a good candidate if:
- Your BMI is between 30 and 40
- You haven’t had previous bariatric surgery
- You’re committed to making lifestyle changes
- You’re looking for a temporary, non-surgical weight loss option
- You don’t have certain medical conditions, like stomach ulcers or severe acid reflux
A comprehensive consultation at VIVE Bariatrics will help determine if the gastric balloon fits your needs and goals.
Benefits of Choosing a Gastric Balloon
- Non-surgical and reversible
- Quick procedure with minimal downtime
- Jumpstarts weight loss and healthier habits
- No permanent changes to your digestive system
- Improves obesity-related conditions such as hypertension and diabetes
Many patients lose 20% to 50% of their excess body weight during the six months the balloon is in place.
What Are the Risks or Downsides?
As with any medical procedure, the gastric balloon has potential risks, including:
- Nausea, vomiting, and cramping in the first few days
- Balloon deflation or movement (rare with modern balloons)
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Need for early removal if intolerable side effects occur
Most side effects are temporary and manageable with medications and close monitoring.
Life After a Gastric Balloon
Success with a gastric balloon depends heavily on commitment to lifestyle changes. While the balloon helps you feel full sooner, long-term results come from:
- Following a healthy diet
- Incorporating regular exercise
- Building sustainable habits
- Continuing support and follow-up with your care team
After the balloon is removed, patients who maintain healthy habits often continue to lose weight—or at the very least, maintain their weight loss.
Conclusion
A gastric balloon is a safe, effective, and non-surgical way to kickstart significant weight loss. It’s perfect for those who need help getting started but aren’t ready—or don’t qualify—for more invasive bariatric surgery.
At VIVE Bariatrics, we’ll guide you through every step of the process, from evaluation to long-term success. If you’re ready to take control of your health and weight, the gastric balloon might be the right choice for you.
