The gastric balloon surgery is a non-surgical obesity treatment method that involves inserting a silicone or polyurethane balloon into the stomach and inflating it with sterile liquid. The balloon occupies space in the stomach, creating a feeling of fullness, which leads to reduced food intake and eventual weight loss. This procedure can be done endoscopically under anesthesia, and there are also swallowable gastric balloons that don’t require anesthesia or endoscopy.
Gastric balloon procedures have gained popularity as an effective treatment for obesity, especially among individuals who cannot undergo anesthesia or prefer non-surgical options. The duration of the gastric balloon in the stomach varies depending on the type, usually lasting between 4 to 12 months. During this time, it helps individuals adhere to their diet and develop healthier eating habits.
The gastric balloon surgery is reversible and repeatable, providing an advantage in obesity treatment. It is a viable option for those looking to achieve significant weight loss without undergoing invasive surgery.
Fixed-Volume Balloons:
Fixed-volume balloons are inflated to a volume of 400-600 ml during the initial placement and their volume remains unchanged thereafter. They stay in the stomach for 6 months and are removed again using sedation and endoscopy.
For swallowable gastric balloons, no endoscopy procedure is required. The balloon has a valve that opens after 4 months, causing it to deflate and be naturally expelled through the intestinal tract. There is no need for another endoscopy for removal.
Adjustable Gastric Balloon:
The key difference of an adjustable gastric balloon compared to a fixed-volume one is that its volume can be adjusted as needed while it remains in the stomach. After placement, these balloons are inflated to around 400-500 ml.
During the subsequent period, based on the patient’s weight loss progress, the amount of fluid in the balloon can be increased or decreased using the filling port located at the end of the balloon. The Spatz 3 adjustable balloon is an example of such balloons.
Except for the Elipse Allurion swallowable gastric balloon, other gastric balloons are inserted while the patient is under mild sedation, a lighter form of anesthesia where no respiratory assistance is needed. It should not be confused with general anesthesia. The risks associated with sedation are much lower.
The gastric balloon is an obesity treatment method that has been used for a long time, generally enabling individuals to lose 10% to 15% of their weight within 4-6 months. It can be applied to individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher, between the ages of 18-70, and who have not undergone previous obesity surgery. Additionally, it serves as an alternative treatment for individuals who have conditions that prevent them from undergoing anesthesia (Allurion gastric balloon) or those who do not wish to undergo surgical procedures like gastric sleeve surgery.
However, it is crucial for individuals to maintain the changes in their diet and lifestyle, along with the eating habits acquired with the balloon, in order to prevent the regained weight in the future.
There are certain cases where a gastric balloon is not suitable. Conditions such as ulcers, severe reflux, or large hiatal hernia related to the stomach are among the primary reasons. Additionally, the procedure is not appropriate for individuals who have previously undergone bariatric surgery, pregnant women or those planning to get pregnant, alcohol addicts, individuals with psychological disorders, or those with esophageal problems.
As mentioned, the deflated gastric balloon is a flexible material made of silicone or polyurethane. It is inserted into the stomach through the mouth and esophagus (depending on the type of balloon) using an endoscope, which is a thin flexible tube with a camera and light at its end.
Mild sedation is applied during this process to ensure the patient feels no pain or discomfort. If endoscopy and sedation are required for the insertion of the balloon, an expert anesthetist is present during the procedure.
For the technologically advanced Allurion Elipse gastric balloon, no sedation or endoscopy is needed.
Before inserting the balloon into the stomach, the condition of the stomach is checked with an endoscopy to ensure it is suitable for the balloon. The patient should not consume any food in the last 6 hours before the placement.
Once inside the stomach, the balloon is inflated with approximately 400-600 ml of isotonic sterile saline solution, making it about the size of a grapefruit. The average capacity of a stomach is around 1-1.5 liters, but the gastric balloons can be filled up to 800 ml. However, the amount of inflation is determined by the doctor, considering certain criteria.
The color of the saline solution is turned blue with methylene blue. This way, if there is a hole or leakage in the balloon, the color of the urine will turn blue. In such cases, immediately consult your doctor for the removal of the balloon. It will be removed endoscopically from the stomach.
The entire procedure takes about 20 minutes.
After the placement of the gastric balloon, the stomach will attempt to digest it, but since it cannot be digested, there may be an adjustment period with symptoms like cramps, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms may vary from person to person and can last from 3 to 7 days before subsiding. Your doctor will prescribe the necessary medications to help you through this period.
It is important to note that the gastric balloon is only a starting point for weight loss. To maintain the weight loss, you need to make changes in your lifestyle and eating habits. You will have to adhere to the prescribed diet and eventually turn it into a permanent dietary habit.
Feeling discomfort like nausea is normal immediately after the insertion of the gastric balloon. This can last for a few days or up to a week. Significant weight loss is observed during the first two weeks in most patients. Some may experience nausea after eating during this time. Notably, the amount of food that makes you feel full may decrease.
In weeks 3-6, the appetite slowly begins to return, but patients can still feel satiated with very little food. During this period, eating should be slow and any discomfort after eating should be monitored. Meals should be scheduled and conscious. Complaints such as hiccups, acid reflux, and nausea are generally seen when eating rapidly and excessively.
In weeks 7-12, weight loss continues, but at a slower rate compared to the initial 8 weeks. During this time, it is essential to continue the effort to incorporate diet and exercise methods into your lifestyle for weight loss.
The risks and complications of a gastric balloon can be divided into three main categories. The first and most commonly seen complications occur within the first week after the procedure. Later on, there are fewer risks of complications. Emergency situations requiring intervention are almost non-existent.
The early complications include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and weakness. These may lead to early removal of the balloon.
Later on, patients may experience bloating, acid reflux, decreased stool and bowel movements, and
After the gastric balloon procedure, changing your eating habits and nutrition is essential for healthy weight loss. Along with a detailed diet program provided by a dietitian, here are some rules to follow:
Adopt a balanced diet plan that is rich in protein during this period and make it a habit.
Do not let the time between meals be too long.
When you crave sweets, you can slice fruits into your yogurt or add cinnamon to your milk. These will help balance your blood sugar and suppress your sweet cravings.
Pay attention to the high protein content and no added sugars in the foods you eat.
Take your time while eating and chew your food thoroughly.
Avoid consuming liquids during meals. Stop fluid intake half an hour before meals and wait half an hour after meals.
If you experience difficulty tolerating a certain solid food, leave it for a while and give your stomach time.
Prefer healthier cooking methods such as steaming, boiling, grilling, and baking with less oil.
Avoid heavily spiced and salty foods that might upset your stomach.
Stay away from sugary, carbonated, and fizzy drinks (cola, soda, etc.).
Choose caffeine-free, sugar-free, and low-calorie beverages.
Prioritize protein in every meal. Fruits should be your last choice.
Avoid alcohol consumption.
Pay attention to drinking 1-1.5 liters of water.
How Much Weight Can Be Lost with a Gastric Balloon?
Weight loss depends on various factors such as changes in the person’s eating habits, calorie balance, exercise, basal metabolic rate, genetics, and body mass index. Any obesity treatment (such as gastric sleeve surgery or gastric balloon) is the first step towards losing weight and reaching the ideal weight. These treatments make it easier for the patient to change their eating habits. However, after the treatment, it is crucial to change the lifestyle or eliminate the causes of excessive weight gain. Therefore, the success rate varies from person to person.
In over 1000 gastric balloon applications performed at our clinic, this figure ranges from 10 kg to 76 kg.
In some cases, patients may return to their old habits and regain the weight lost 1-2 years later. It is essential to maintain the acquired habits throughout the process after the gastric balloon treatment.
Gastric balloon prices in our country, like the prices of many imported products, vary depending on exchange rate fluctuations and the hospital where the procedure is performed. For up-to-date gastric balloon application prices and quality service, you can contact us. Our clinic has performed over 3000 gastric balloon applications to date.
The Elipse Swallowable Gastric Balloon (Allurion Gastric Balloon) is the world’s first gastric balloon that does not require endoscopy or anesthesia. It has the same mechanism of action as other gastric balloons.
The Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon is successfully applied as a non-surgical gastric reduction operation.
The Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon remains in the stomach for about 4 months and then deflates and is naturally expelled. During this time, you can lose approximately 10-15% of your weight. According to research, most of the weight loss with the gastric balloon method occurs in the first 4 months. Its effect is much less in the subsequent period. However, the Allurion Weight Loss Program continues for 6 months after the balloon is expelled. With the support of an expert dietitian and effective follow-up, the person can continue to lose weight.
The Allurion (Elipse) Swallowable Gastric Balloon is capsule-shaped and compressed to be easily swallowed. It is minimized for easy swallowing. For this reason, it is also called the gastric balloon pill. It is made of thin and state-of-the-art polyurethane material, which makes it smooth and causes much fewer side effects compared to other gastric balloons. Its thinness does not affect its durability. Like other gastric balloons, it is also resistant to stomach acid for an extended period. These advantages provide a more comfortable process for individuals who want to lose weight. At the same time, it is effective in the easy and natural expulsion of the Elipse (Allurion) Gastric Balloon at the end of the process.
The application of the Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon takes about 15 minutes. The balloon, compressed into a swallowable capsule, and a thin, flexible string attached to the balloon are swallowed with the help of water.
One of the biggest concerns of patients is the fear of not being able to swallow the swallowable gastric balloon capsule. However, in all our applications so far, all patients have been able to swallow the capsule easily. Nevertheless, there is a thin guide used by the doctor for such a possibility. In case of any difficulty in swallowing, this guide is used to complete the process.
After the capsule is swallowed, its position in the stomach is checked with a fluoroscopy (moving X-ray) device. With the fluoroscopy device, the patient can see the capsule in their stomach. After confirming the appropriateness of the capsule’s position, water is transferred into the balloon through the remaining string (tube) to inflate it. After inflation, it is checked again with the fluoroscopy device, and the remaining string is pulled out by the doctor to complete the procedure.
The Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon does not need to be removed. At the end of 4 months, the balloon’s valve dissolves, and the deflated balloon is naturally expelled through the intestines. One of the most common questions from our patients is whether this expulsion might cause intestinal obstruction. This is highly unlikely because the balloon is very thin and smooth in structure. We have not encountered such a situation in our clinic so far.
By following the doctor’s and dietitian’s advice, you can lose approximately 10-15% of your body weight in about 4 months. With the continuation of the acquired eating habits, weight loss can continue in the following period.
The swallowable gastric balloon application is the beginning of a weight loss journey. Afterward, determination and effective follow-up are essential. Therefore, it should be followed up by expert dietitians for support after the procedure. Additionally, using the Allurion Smart Scale, Allurion Smart Watch, and the mobile application provided by the program is essential for continuous monitoring.
With the swallowable gastric balloon, you can lose up to an average of 25 kilograms.
The Allurion Swallowable Gastric Balloon, the most widely used gastric balloon in the world, is more than just a gastric balloon. With the 6-month Allurion Weight Loss Program, you will start your weight loss journey with the feeling of continuous satiety and lay the foundations for a lifestyle based on healthy and balanced nutrition throughout your life.
Get in touch with us, meet our doctor and dietitian, and learn how you can benefit the most from the Allurion Weight Loss Program in terms of nutrition and exercise guidance. After a comprehensive interview and clarifying the questions you have, we will schedule your appointment.
In just a 15-minute procedure without the need for hospitalization, let’s apply the Elipse Swallowable Gastric Balloon with a simple procedure. No anesthesia, endoscopy, or surgery required.
During the program, track your progress with the Allurion Smart Scale and Allurion Smart Watch connected to a mobile application. Share your success with your doctor and dietitian for simultaneous advice and improvements in lifestyle and nutrition.
After 4 months, the balloon is expelled from your body without you noticing it. However, your weight loss journey continues.
The expulsion of the balloon from your body does not mean that weight loss will stop. By maintaining the lifestyle you easily changed thanks to the balloon, you can continue to lose weight for 6 months and beyond. During the 1-year follow-up period, 95% of the weight lost with the Allurion Weight Loss Program can be maintained.
Change your lifestyle and waist circumference.
The Allurion Program provides you with 6 months of ongoing weight loss and offers the following:
At the center of the Allurion Program is a revolutionary swallowable gastric balloon designed to occupy space in your stomach and help reduce food intake.
The Allurion Program allows you to move away from the feeling of hunger and make healthier food choices while avoiding common hunger crises in diets.
The swallowable gastric balloon is swallowed during a 15-minute visit to your doctor and is expelled naturally from the body after about 16 weeks.
After approximately 16 weeks, patients can lose an average of 10-15% of their total body weight. In rare cases, the Allurion Elipse Gastric Balloon may be removed by vomiting, or an endoscopic or surgical intervention may be required for removal.
The only gastric balloon that does not require surgery, endoscopy, or anesthesia!
