The Pros and Cons of Gastric Balloon: Is It Right for You?

Losing weight can feel like an uphill battle, especially when traditional methods like dieting and exercise don’t deliver the results you’re hoping for. Surgical procedures, while effective, come with significant risks, long recovery times, and irreversible changes.

This leaves many patients feeling frustrated and overwhelmed, stuck between options that either feel too extreme or simply aren’t effective enough. Without a clear path forward, it’s easy to lose hope in finding a solution that’s safe, effective, and fits your lifestyle.

That’s where the gastric balloon comes in. This innovative, non-surgical procedure offers temporary yet effective weight loss support and empowers patients to jumpstart their weight loss journey. In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of the gastric balloon, how it works, and whether it might be the right choice for you.

What is the Gastric Balloon for Weight Loss?

The gastric balloon, or intragastric balloon, is a non-invasive weight loss procedure designed for patients who want to jumpstart weight loss without surgery. The innovative approach involves placing a soft, saline-filled balloon in the stomach through a quick, endoscopic outpatient procedure.

Once in place, the balloon takes up about two-thirds of the space in the stomach, helping patients feel fuller faster and consume smaller portions during meals. The smaller stomach size also slows gastric emptying, so patients feel fuller longer. 

Unlike surgical weight loss methods, the gastric balloon is temporary and fully reversible. It remains in place for six months, giving patients a window of time to adopt healthier eating habits and lifestyle changes. During this time, patients receive personalized guidance and support to ensure long-term success after the balloon is removed.

The Pros of Gastric Balloon for Weight Loss

For those with a BMI over 30 who have struggled to achieve lasting results with traditional weight loss methods, the gastric balloon offers an attractive alternative. Let’s explore the unique pros and benefits that set gastric balloon apart from other weight loss methods.

Non-Invasive and Non-Surgical

One of the most significant advantages of the gastric balloon for weight loss is its non-invasive and non-surgical approach. The procedure is performed under mild sedation and it involves no incisions, scars, or permanent alterations to the body. This makes it a much less intimidating option for those who are hesitant about undergoing surgery.

Jumpstarts Weight Loss

The gastric balloon jumpstarts weight loss by reducing the stomach’s capacity, which curbs hunger and promotes smaller meal portions. During the six months the balloon is in place, patients achieve rapid results, with most experiencing 10-15% average weight loss. This initial success boosts motivation and makes it easier for patients to embrace healthy lifestyle changes.

Improved Health Outcomes

Losing weight with the gastric balloon can help improve your overall health and promote longevity. No matter which weight loss method you choose, weight loss is linked to a range of potential health benefits, including:

• Reduced pressure on the arteries, leading to improved heart health
• Decreased risk of stroke and other cardiac events
• Improved sleep quality, especially for those with sleep apnea
• Lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels
• Increased mobility, making everyday activities easier
• Less stress on bones and joints
• Improved mood
• Better quality of life

Quick Procedure and Minimal Downtime

The gastric balloon is also a practical choice for busy patients who want to avoid long recovery times. The procedure takes only about 15 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.

Most patients resume their normal activities, including work and light exercise, within just a few days, avoiding the extended recovery periods associated with traditional weight loss surgeries. This minimal downtime makes the gastric balloon a convenient option for those who want an effective solution without major disruptions to their lifestyle.

Temporary and Reversible

Unlike surgical solutions, the gastric balloon is temporary and fully reversible. It is removed after six months, leaving no lasting changes to the body. This makes it an appealing option for patients who want a non-permanent approach to weight loss.

Low Risk of Complications

The procedure has a proven track record of safety. While some patients may experience mild side effects like nausea or discomfort during the initial adjustment period, these symptoms typically resolve quickly. Serious complications are extremely rare, adding to the procedure’s appeal as a low-risk, non-invasive solution for weight loss.

The Gastric Balloon Is More Affordable Than Surgery

Cost is a major consideration for many patients exploring weight loss options, and the gastric balloon procedure stands out as a more budget-friendly alternative to bariatric surgery. For example, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) can cost an average of $16,000 or more for the procedure alone and that does not include associated expenses like the hospital stay or follow up care.

On the other hand, the gastric balloon procedure costs $6,995 at Bariendo, and includes 12-months of follow up care with your dedicated healthcare team. This comprehensive support ensures you receive guidance throughout your weight loss journey at a fraction of the cost of surgery.

The Cons of Gastric Balloon for Weight Loss

While the gastric balloon offers many advantages, it’s important to understand the limitations before deciding if it’s the right option for you. Understanding the potential cons will help you decide if this option aligns with your goals and overall lifestyle.

Temporary Side Effects

Adjusting to the gastric balloon can be uncomfortable for some patients, especially in the first few weeks. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort as the body adapts to the balloon.

While these symptoms usually subside within a few days to weeks, they can be discouraging initially. Knowing what to expect and having the support of your healthcare team can help you navigate this temporary phase more comfortably.

Not a Quick Fix

While the gastric balloon is highly effective for jumpstarting weight loss and establishing healthy habits, it’s not a magic solution. Success depends heavily on the patient’s willingness to embrace long-term lifestyle changes. Without ongoing dedication to a healthy diet and regular exercise, the benefits of the procedure may be short-lived.

At Bariendo, patients receive personalized support to help bridge this gap. They have ongoing access to dietitians and healthcare professionals for 12 months after the procedure. These experts guide patients through establishing healthy habits while the balloon is in place, such as portion control, balanced nutrition, and establishing an exercise routine. This sets patients up for success after the balloon is removed.

How Does the Gastric Balloon Work?

The gastric balloon procedure begins with a thorough examination of your stomach and esophagus using an endoscope- a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light. This allows your doctors to check for any obstructions or conditions, such as a stomach ulcer, that might interfere with the procedure.

Once cleared, a catheter containing the deflated silicone balloon is gently passed through your mouth and into your stomach. Your doctors use an endoscope alongside the catheter to guide and confirm that the balloon is correctly positioned within the stomach.

Once in place, the balloon is gradually filled with a sterile saline solution to approximately the size of a grapefruit. The entire process is performed as an outpatient procedure, and it takes about 15 minutes. Most patients return home the same day to rest and recover in comfort.

What to Expect After the Procedure

In the first two weeks after the procedure, you will follow a liquid diet. You will transition to soups and soft foods within two weeks post-procedure and regular food within 3-4 weeks.

The gastric balloon remains in place for six-months, and during this time, you will receive weight loss guidance and support from a qualified dietitian and the members of your healthcare team. This support focuses on helping you refine your eating habits and lifestyle to achieve sustainable, long-term results. 

The goal is to help you establish a routine and lifestyle that you can continue even after the balloon has been removed. In this way, your weight loss journey can continue unassisted. To fast-track your weight loss goals, your doctor may also encourage you to perform cardiovascular and strength training exercises within one or two weeks after the procedure.

Gastric Balloon vs Other Weight Loss Options

When considering the gastric balloon, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons against other popular weight loss solutions to determine the best fit for you.

Gastric Balloon vs ESG Stomach Tightening

The gastric balloon and ESG Stomach Tightening (Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty) are both non-invasive, non-surgical weight loss options performed with the help of an endoscope. While the gastric balloon is temporary, ESG offers more durable results by reshaping the stomach to reduce its size by about 70%. 

Weight loss with ESG is typically more substantial with patients losing about 18% of their total body. Both procedures are reversible, require no hospital stay and have a similar recovery time. Regardless of which option you choose, a healthy diet and exercise are crucial for achieving the best results.

Gastric Balloon vs Weight Loss Medications

Weight loss medications, like GLP-1 agonists, work by regulating appetite and metabolic function. Medications typically require long term use to sustain results, so the ongoing expense of monthly prescriptions can add up quickly. 

While medications can complement other treatments, the gastric balloon offers a more immediate, tangible impact on eating habits and portion control.

Gastric Balloon vs Surgical Procedures

Surgical options like gastric sleeve or gastric bypass typically result in more substantial weight loss, but come with higher risks, longer recovery times, and permanent alterations to the digestive system. 

The gastric balloon is a safer, non-invasive alternative for patients seeking moderate weight loss without the risks and irreversible changes associated with surgery.

Is the Gastric Balloon Right for You?

The gastric balloon is an excellent option for patients who are looking for a non-invasive weight loss solution and meet the following criteria:

• BMI Over 30: Ideal candidates have a BMI of 30 or higher. Some patients with a BMI between 27 and 29.9 may also qualify if they have an obesity-related health condition, such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, fatty liver disease, or sleep apnea.
• Struggled with Traditional Methods: Those who have been unsuccessful with diet and exercise alone may find success with the gastric balloon as a supportive tool for jumpstarting weight loss.
• Willingness to Commit to Lifestyle Changes: Success with the gastric balloon requires an ongoing commitment to healthier eating habits and an active lifestyle.

However, the procedure may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as severe acid reflux, large hiatal hernias, or previous stomach surgeries should consult with their doctor to determine if the gastric balloon is right for them. Take this quick 2-minute quiz to find out if the gastric balloon aligns with your weight loss goals.

Wrapping Up

Deciding whether the gastric balloon is right for you means weighing the pros and cons against your unique goals and health needs. The gastric balloon offers numerous benefits, including safety, convenience, and proven weight loss results. 

But, success relies heavily on your dedication to lasting lifestyle changes. By working closely with our expert team, you’ll receive the personalized care and support needed to achieve long-term success.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Learn how Bariendo’s innovative endoscopic weight loss solutions can help you achieve your goals! Schedule your free consultation today to explore whether the gastric balloon is the right fit for your journey to better health.