What to Expect During Gastric Balloon Removal

The gastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical weight loss solution that helps individuals reduce their food intake and lose weight over a period of six months. Once the balloon has served its purpose, it needs to be removed. If you’re preparing for gastric balloon removal, understanding what to expect will help ease any concerns and ensure a smooth process. At VIVE Bariatrics, we guide our patients through every step of the procedure to make sure they feel comfortable and confident. In this article, we’ll explain how gastric balloon removal works, what you can expect on the day of removal, and how to continue your weight loss journey afterward.


1. Why is the Gastric Balloon Removed?

The gastric balloon is designed as a temporary aid for weight loss, typically remaining in the stomach for six months. Keeping the balloon beyond this period is not recommended, as it may increase the risk of complications, such as balloon deflation or irritation of the stomach lining.

Key Reasons for Balloon Removal:

  • The balloon has fulfilled its role in helping with portion control and jumpstarting weight loss.
  • It’s important to remove the balloon before the material begins to degrade.
  • Removal marks the transition to the next phase of your weight loss journey, focusing on lifestyle changes and long-term maintenance.

Once the balloon is removed, patients continue to work on their weight loss goals through a balanced diet and regular physical activity.


2. How Does Gastric Balloon Removal Work?

Gastric balloon removal is a non-surgical procedure, similar to how the balloon was inserted. The procedure is performed using an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera, which is inserted through your mouth and into your stomach. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:


Step 1: Sedation

To ensure your comfort during the removal, you will be placed under mild sedation. The sedation helps you relax, and although you’ll remain conscious, you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Your medical team will monitor your vital signs throughout the process.


Step 2: Deflation of the Balloon

Once the endoscope is positioned in your stomach, the surgeon will use a specialized tool to puncture and deflate the balloon. The saline solution inside the balloon will be drained and safely removed from your stomach. The deflated balloon can then be grasped and gently pulled back up through your esophagus and out of your mouth.


Step 3: Balloon Removal

After the balloon is deflated, the surgeon will carefully extract the balloon through the mouth using the endoscope. This step typically takes only a few minutes, and once the balloon is removed, the procedure is complete.


3. How Long Does the Removal Procedure Take?

Gastric balloon removal is a relatively quick procedure, usually taking about 20 to 30 minutes. The time may vary slightly depending on individual factors, but it’s considered an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. Most patients are monitored for a short period after the removal to ensure there are no immediate complications from the sedation.


4. What to Expect After Balloon Removal

Once the balloon is removed, you’ll be taken to a recovery area where you’ll rest until the sedation wears off. Here’s what you can expect after the procedure:

  • Mild discomfort: You may experience mild throat irritation or soreness from the endoscope, but this typically resolves within a day or two.
  • Temporary bloating: Some patients report mild bloating or nausea after the procedure, but these symptoms are generally short-lived.
  • Same-day discharge: You’ll be able to go home the same day, but you’ll need someone to drive you due to the sedation.
  • Dietary guidance: Your healthcare team will provide dietary guidelines to follow in the days after removal. Gradually reintroducing solid foods and focusing on portion control will help you maintain your weight loss.

Most patients return to their normal activities within a day or two following balloon removal.


5. Maintaining Weight Loss After Balloon Removal

The removal of the gastric balloon marks the end of the temporary phase of your weight loss journey, but it’s important to continue with the healthy habits you developed while the balloon was in place. To maintain your weight loss success, focus on long-term lifestyle changes.

Post-Removal Tips:

  • Follow a balanced diet: Continue eating nutrient-dense, portion-controlled meals, and avoid overeating to prevent weight regain.
  • Exercise regularly: Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine is essential for maintaining your weight and supporting overall health.
  • Seek support: Regular follow-ups with your bariatric team, nutritionist, or support group can help you stay on track and motivated.

Long-term success depends on your commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle even after the balloon is no longer in place.


6. Is Gastric Balloon Removal Painful?

The removal process is generally painless due to the sedation used during the procedure. You may feel slight discomfort or pressure as the balloon is deflated and removed, but you won’t experience significant pain. Any post-procedure discomfort, such as a sore throat, is typically mild and short-lived.


7. What Happens After the Balloon is Removed?

After the gastric balloon is removed, you’ll continue to work with your healthcare team to sustain your weight loss. Many patients experience substantial weight loss while the balloon is in place, but maintaining those results will depend on your ongoing efforts. You will likely follow a similar diet plan to what you practiced during the time the balloon was inserted.

Next Steps Include:

  • Nutritional counseling: Continuing with regular appointments with a dietitian or nutritionist to help manage portion sizes and maintain a balanced diet.
  • Exercise planning: Developing an exercise routine that fits your lifestyle and promotes long-term weight maintenance.
  • Behavioral support: Some patients find it helpful to participate in behavioral therapy or counseling to address emotional eating or other challenges.

While the balloon is temporary, the lifestyle changes you adopt are key to your long-term success.


8. Potential Risks and Complications

Gastric balloon removal is generally a safe procedure, but like any medical procedure, it does carry some potential risks. These include:

  • Nausea or vomiting: Some patients may experience nausea or vomiting after removal, but these symptoms usually subside within a day.
  • Sore throat: The endoscope can cause temporary irritation or soreness in the throat.
  • Complications related to sedation: Although rare, some individuals may have an adverse reaction to the sedatives used during the procedure.

Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks with you before the procedure and ensure that you are fully prepared.


Conclusion

Gastric balloon removal is a straightforward, non-surgical procedure that marks an important milestone in your weight loss journey. At VIVE Bariatrics, we prioritize patient comfort and safety, ensuring that the removal process is quick and easy. By maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, and following your healthcare team’s guidance, you can continue to achieve your weight loss goals even after the balloon is removed. If you have any concerns or questions about gastric balloon removal, contact us today to schedule a consultation.