Gastric Balloon

What Is a Gastric Balloon? A Non-Surgical Weight Loss Method

A gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss method used in the treatment of obesity and excess weight. In this procedure, a silicone balloon is placed into the stomach using an endoscopic technique and then filled with liquid or air. By occupying a portion of the stomach, the balloon helps the person feel full with smaller amounts of food and reduces daily calorie intake.

Since the gastric balloon procedure is not a surgical operation, it is usually completed in a short time, and patients can typically return to their daily activities on the same day. For this reason, it is often preferred by individuals who want to lose weight without undergoing surgery.

Who Is a Gastric Balloon Suitable For?

Gastric balloon treatment is generally recommended for individuals who are unable to lose sufficient weight through diet and exercise. However, whether the procedure is appropriate should always be evaluated by a specialist physician.

It may generally be suitable for:

• Individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 27 and 40

• People who cannot achieve lasting weight loss through diet and exercise

• Individuals who are not suitable for surgical procedures or who prefer not to undergo surgery

• Patients who want to reduce health risks associated with obesity

Before the procedure, the patient’s overall health condition is carefully evaluated.

How Is a Gastric Balloon Applied?

The gastric balloon procedure is usually performed using endoscopy. During the procedure, the patient is placed under mild sedation and no surgical incision is required.

The procedure typically involves the following steps:

• The balloon is placed into the stomach using an endoscopic device.

• The balloon is filled with a special liquid or air.

• The balloon occupies a certain volume inside the stomach, increasing the feeling of fullness.

The procedure usually takes 15–20 minutes, and patients can be discharged shortly afterward.

Effects of the Gastric Balloon

The gastric balloon is a method that supports the weight loss process. Since the balloon occupies part of the stomach, individuals feel full more quickly and consume less food.

During this process:

• Daily calorie intake decreases

• Portion sizes become smaller

• Weight loss is supported

• Healthy eating habits are developed

However, the gastric balloon alone is not a permanent solution. For successful results, diet and lifestyle changes are essential.

How Long Does the Gastric Balloon Stay in the Stomach?

Depending on the type of gastric balloon used, it typically remains in the stomach for 6 months or 12 months. At the end of this period, the balloon is removed using an endoscopic procedure.

After removal, maintaining healthy eating habits is very important in order to preserve the weight that has been lost.

The Process After Gastric Balloon Treatment

After the gastric balloon procedure, some patients may experience mild nausea or stomach discomfort during the first few days. These symptoms usually resolve in a short time.

During the post-procedure period:

• A nutrition plan is followed under the supervision of a doctor and dietitian

• Regular physical activity is recommended

• Follow-up appointments are maintained

Lifestyle changes during this period play an important role in achieving long-term weight control.