What is a Gastric Balloon and How Does it Work?
A gastric balloon is a non-surgical obesity treatment method for people who want to lose weight without an operation. A special balloon is placed in the stomach via an endoscope or a swallowable capsule and then inflated. This balloon fills a portion of the stomach, creating a feeling of fullness and reducing portion sizes. As a result, individuals feel satisfied with less food, reducing their calorie intake and leading to weight loss. The gastric balloon is most effective when used in conjunction with a diet and exercise program.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for a Gastric Balloon?
The gastric balloon procedure is ideal for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 27 and 40 who do not want or are not suitable for surgery. It can also be used as a preparatory step before surgery. The balloon is suitable for healthy individuals who want to lose weight by avoiding a surgical procedure or who aim for a smaller amount of weight loss. However, individuals with serious stomach or esophagus conditions, those who have previously had bariatric surgery, or those who are pregnant are not suitable candidates for this procedure.
What is an Elipse Gastric Balloon and How is it Placed?
The Elipse gastric balloon is a new-generation balloon in the form of a swallowable capsule that does not require surgery or endoscopy. The patient swallows the capsule, which has a thin catheter attached to it, with the help of water. When the capsule reaches the stomach, it is inflated with a liquid through the catheter, and the catheter is then removed. The procedure takes approximately 15 minutes and does not require any anesthesia. The balloon deflates on its own after 4 months and is excreted naturally. This easy and comfortable procedure offers a significant advantage for patients.
What is a 6-Month Gastric Balloon and How is it Placed?
A 6-month gastric balloon is placed in the stomach using an endoscopic method and remains there for 6 months. The procedure is performed under light sedation (a sleep-like state) and takes about 20 minutes. The balloon, which is placed in the stomach with an endoscope, is then inflated with a liquid. After 6 months, it is removed from the stomach again via endoscopy. This method ensures the correct placement and removal of the balloon and aims for long-term weight control.
How Long Does the Gastric Balloon Procedure Take?
The gastric balloon placement procedure varies depending on the type of balloon used. For the Elipse swallowable balloon, the process, including swallowing and inflation, takes approximately 15 minutes. For the 6-month endoscopic balloon, the placement procedure under sedation takes about 20-30 minutes. Patients can typically leave the clinic shortly after the procedure and do not need to stay in the hospital.
Is Anesthesia Required for Gastric Balloon Placement?
Anesthesia is not required for the Elipse swallowable balloon. After the patient swallows the capsule, the procedure is completed without sedation and while the patient is awake. For the 6-month endoscopic balloon procedure, light sedation (a sleep-like state) is applied for the patient’s comfort. This ensures the patient is relaxed and comfortable during the procedure and prevents any discomfort.
Is Placing a Gastric Balloon Considered Surgery?
The gastric balloon placement procedure is not a surgical operation. There is no laparoscopic or open incision made. This is one of the biggest advantages of the procedure. The Elipse balloon is swallowed as a capsule, and the 6-month balloon is placed via endoscopy. In both cases, the recovery period is very short, and patients can return to their normal lives immediately.
How Much Weight Can Be Lost with a Gastric Balloon?
The amount of weight lost with a gastric balloon varies depending on the individual, the type of balloon, and the duration it remains in the stomach. On average, patients can lose 15% to 20% of their excess weight. However, these results depend on the patient’s adherence to their diet, exercise habits, and lifestyle changes.
What Happens After the Gastric Balloon is Removed?
After a 6-month gastric balloon is removed, the patient is expected to maintain their new eating habits and lifestyle. Otherwise, the lost weight can be regained. For this reason, remaining under the supervision of a dietitian and continuing to exercise regularly after the balloon is removed is essential for long-term success.
What is the Post-Procedure Diet Like?
Post-procedure nutrition is very important for the gastric balloon to be effective. For the first few days, only liquid foods are consumed. Then, the patient transitions to pureed foods, and solid foods are gradually introduced into the diet. The dietitian creates a personalized nutrition plan and ensures that the patient eats smaller portions and consumes nutrient-rich foods.
How Should Water Be Consumed After the Procedure?
In the first few days after the procedure, it is very important to drink plenty of water as the stomach is sensitive. The goal should be to consume at least 1.5-2 liters of water per day to prevent dehydration. However, it is necessary to sip water slowly and in small amounts. It is also important to avoid drinking water during and immediately after meals, as this can increase the feeling of fullness and cause discomfort.
Will I Experience Pain After the Gastric Balloon Procedure?
In the first few days after the gastric balloon is placed, temporary side effects such as mild cramps, nausea, and pain may occur. This is because the stomach is trying to adapt to the balloon. These symptoms usually subside on their own within a few days. Discomfort can be alleviated by using medications recommended by the doctor.
When Can I Return to Work After the Gastric Balloon?
Since the gastric balloon procedure is not a surgery, the recovery period is very short. Patients can typically return to work one day or a few days after the procedure. Those with physically demanding jobs may need to rest for a little longer.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects of a Gastric Balloon?
The gastric balloon is a less risky method compared to surgery. However, temporary side effects such as nausea, cramps, and vomiting may occur. In rare cases, serious complications such as the balloon deflating, passing into the intestines, or irritation of the stomach wall can happen. These risks are minimized with the experience of the doctor and the clinic.
How Do Gastric Balloon Costs Vary?
Gastric balloon prices vary depending on the type of balloon used (Elipse or 6-month), the location of the clinic or hospital, the experience of the surgeon or gastroenterologist, and the additional services offered (such as dietitian follow-up, psychological support). Since there are many different clinics in Istanbul, prices can vary.
Why Are Gastric Balloon Prices Different in Istanbul?
Istanbul is a hub for both national and international patients, so there are many different hospitals and clinics. Prices can vary depending on factors such as the reputation of the hospital or clinic, the technology used, the expertise of the team, and the variety of services included in the package.
Is the Gastric Balloon Covered by Social Security?
No, the gastric balloon procedure is considered an aesthetic procedure and is not covered by the Social Security Institution (SGK) in Turkey. Patients must pay for all procedure fees themselves.
Can a Gastric Balloon Be Placed Again?
Yes, if a patient wants to have another balloon placed after the first one is removed, this is possible. However, the patient’s condition is re-evaluated before a second balloon is placed. Generally, a second balloon may be considered for people who had low success in maintaining weight after the first balloon or who need to lose more weight.
Can the Gastric Balloon Burst?
The gastric balloon is made of a very durable material, and the possibility of it bursting on its own is extremely low. However, in rare cases, a leak in the balloon can occur due to external trauma or the effect of stomach acid. In this case, the liquid inside the balloon changes the color of the urine, which serves as a warning sign, and the balloon must be removed.
When Can I Start Exercising After Gastric Balloon Placement?
After the gastric balloon is placed, patients can usually start light walks within a few days. Heavy exercise should be avoided for the first week. The intensity and duration of exercise can be increased after 1-2 weeks with the doctor’s and dietitian’s approval. Regular exercise is crucial for accelerating and maintaining weight loss.
Are Vitamin Supplements Necessary After a Gastric Balloon?
Since the gastric balloon does not affect nutrient absorption, vitamin supplements are generally not mandatory. However, since patients consume less food, they may experience some vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Therefore, supplements such as B12, vitamin D, and iron can be used as recommended by the doctor and dietitian.
Under What Circumstances is a Gastric Balloon Removed?
The gastric balloon is removed at the end of the planned duration (e.g., after 6 or 4 months). However, in rare cases, the balloon may be removed earlier due to severe side effects such as post-procedure nausea, vomiting, or pain. The doctor makes this decision based on the patient’s health condition.
Is the Gastric Balloon Procedure Suitable for Children?
The gastric balloon procedure is generally suitable for individuals aged 18 and older. For childhood obesity treatment, other non-surgical methods and lifestyle changes are preferred. The gastric balloon procedure for children may be performed only in very rare circumstances and by the decision of a doctor.
Is Pregnancy Possible with a Gastric Balloon in Place?
It is not recommended to get pregnant while a gastric balloon is in place. The gastric balloon can prevent the sufficient intake of nutrients necessary for the baby’s development during pregnancy. Therefore, people who are planning a pregnancy should wait for an appropriate period before or after having a gastric balloon placed.
How Permanent is a Gastric Balloon Solution?
A gastric balloon is a temporary tool that helps the patient gain new and healthy eating habits rather than a permanent solution. If the patient returns to their old eating habits after the balloon is removed, regaining the lost weight is inevitable. Therefore, lasting success depends on lifestyle changes.
Why is Psychological Support Important After a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon requires a psychological adaptation period due to rapid weight loss and a new nutritional regimen. It is very important for patients to receive psychological support during this process to maintain their motivation, cope with eating disorders, and get used to their new body.
What Are the Long-Term Benefits of a Gastric Balloon?
The gastric balloon procedure helps patients achieve a healthy weight and improves obesity-related health problems (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.). This leads to a higher quality and healthier life in the long term. Additionally, patients’ self-confidence increases, and their social lives improve.
Where Can I Get Support in Istanbul for the Gastric Balloon Procedure?
In Istanbul, there are many private hospitals and obesity clinics for gastric balloon procedures. These centers usually work with multidisciplinary teams consisting of experienced bariatric surgeons and expert dietitians. Before choosing a center, it is important to research the clinic’s competence, the team’s experience, and patient reviews.
When Does Exercise Start After a Gastric Balloon?
After a gastric balloon is placed, light walks are recommended within the first few days. Patients can usually return to their daily activities within a week. Doctor’s approval should be sought before starting more intense exercises, which is usually possible after a few weeks.
What is the Difference Between a Gastric Balloon and Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
A gastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical method that does not reduce the stomach’s volume but only creates a feeling of fullness. Gastric sleeve surgery is a surgical procedure where a part of the stomach is permanently removed. The gastric balloon is a less risky and faster procedure, but gastric sleeve surgery provides more significant and more permanent weight loss.
