The gastric balloon is not a procedure that eliminates obesity or an alternative to bariatric surgery. Since the gastric balloon is not a stomach reduction surgery method, surgery is not performed during this procedure. This method is a preferred method for the patient group called super obesity. The general purpose of the gastric balloon procedure is to restrict food intake by endoscopically placing a silicone balloon into the stomach and thus allowing the patient to lose some weight. This procedure, which is quite easy, is performed with sedation (half-asleep) and is considered an effective method.
Who is the gastric balloon applied to?
The gastric balloon can be applied to patients who;
– have a body mass index of around 25-30 and 30-35,
– are at risk of metabolic disorders and cannot adapt to bariatric surgery,
– want to lose weight in a healthy way.
The gastric balloon can also be applied to patients who are 10-15 kilos overweight but have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise.
Advantages of the gastric balloon
Many studies have shown that patients can lose 20% of their body weight after the gastric balloon procedure. The gastric balloon, which makes it easier for the patient to lose weight, also increases the patient’s standard of living and helps them gain many positive habits. It is a method preferred by many people because it is not a surgical method, does not require a hospital stay after the procedure, and is discharged within approximately 1-2 hours after the procedure.
What is the age limit for the gastric balloon?
The gastric balloon can be applied to people between the ages of 18-65.
After the gastric balloon procedure
Approximately 4 months after the procedure, the liquid in the balloon must be emptied. After this liquid is emptied, the balloon remaining inside does not need to be removed, the balloon can be naturally expelled from the body. Although there is no recovery process, there is no risk related to the situation. The absence of risks and complications makes the balloon the most preferred method. Unlike other gastric balloon applications, all its effects are the same except that it lasts 4 months.
What are the complaints after the gastric balloon?
Although the complaints after the gastric balloon procedure are the same, they may vary depending on the intensity of the complaint. While many patients complain of cramps and nausea after the procedure, some patients may complain of contractions and an uncomfortable feeling. The gastric balloon procedure, which is around 90% successful, may be rejected by some patients’ bodies even if there is no obstacle. In the event of this situation, patients are given supportive treatments. Although it is not a common situation, if the patient’s body does not accept the balloon or does not respond to drug treatment, the balloon can be removed.
What are the risks that may occur after the gastric balloon procedure?
Although the gastric balloon is a useful method, there are some risk factors for patients. Many people wonder if the balloon will burst after being inserted. Although no problems are experienced as a result of patients being careful after the gastric balloon application, the balloon may rupture in some cases. Factors such as the amount of acid in the stomach and the patient’s eating habits can cause the balloon to rupture. Although it is very difficult to puncture the gastric balloon, if punctured, the blue liquid inside the balloon will cause the urine to be blue. In such cases, it is necessary to see a doctor.
How is the gastric balloon removed?
The patient is sedated, the balloon is deflated with the endoscopic method and removed by mouth. The period after the balloon is removed is called the weight maintenance period. During this period, the dietician’s recommendations should be followed, attention should be paid between meals and the diet should be continued.
