A weight loss balloon is a medical device that is inflated to help you lose weight. It is recommended for patients who have tried unsuccessfully to lose weight through diet and exercise. However, this procedure may not be suitable for all patients. It may be a bad option for patients who do not wish to undergo surgery.

Weight loss with a weight loss balloon

Weight loss with a weight loss balloon is a relatively safe and effective procedure, and most patients can go home the same day. Patients can expect to follow a strict diet for the first week after surgery. After this period, they can return to their normal eating habits. Patients can also expect to experience some pain following the procedure, although this is minimal and can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication.

The procedure uses a balloon filled with saline that takes up space in the stomach, reducing the amount of food consumed in a single sitting. It can also help patients develop new lifestyle habits, such as portion control. The balloon is usually removed after six months, and patients can continue to receive guidance from their care team and dietitian until the end of the six-month period.

The balloon procedure is an outpatient procedure performed under light sedation. The balloon is inserted into the stomach with a thin, flexible tube, called an endoscope. The endoscope is inserted through the mouth and follows the esophagus down to the stomach. Once the balloon is in place, it takes up space in the stomach and helps people feel full sooner.

Safety

In a clinical study, a weight loss balloon was implanted under the skin for twelve weeks. This is a much longer time span than the balloons typically stay in the stomach, and it indicates that the balloon’s material is biocompatible. However, the device was not without risks. There were 67 adverse events reported during the study, of which 48 (72%) were directly related to the device. One participant developed dehydration and nausea following three balloon insertions, and he had to be hospitalized. The patient also had to undergo deflation of the balloons with an endoscope.

The FDA continues to monitor the safety of weight loss balloons and will work with the manufacturers to improve the labeling. They will continue to address any risks and ensure that health care providers are informed of any new information.

Effectiveness

A balloon-based weight loss program may be an alternative to surgery. While the effectiveness of this therapy varies, studies indicate it is more effective in reducing total body weight than other methods. This type of procedure is approved by the FDA and has been used in multiple clinical trials. However, it should be noted that the effectiveness of weight loss programs is not established until they have been proven to be effective for a particular population.

Long-term results are dependent on several factors, including the initial BMI of the patients, the ability of patients to stick to lifestyle changes, and the patients’ motivation. One study found that weight loss balloon treatment was effective for obese patients in reducing weight by as much as 3.1 times more than diet and exercise alone.

There are several disadvantages to using the weight loss balloon. First, it can cause serious side effects. Patients who are at risk of complications should be tested carefully. For example, some patients may experience post-procedural discomfort. Also, there are concerns regarding how the balloon will affect the digestive system.

Cost

The cost of weight loss balloons varies depending on where the balloon is inserted. The procedure requires minimal anesthesia and takes less than an hour to perform. Patients are usually discharged within several hours. They must follow a new diet plan afterward. Patients have reported that the balloons make it easier to stick to their diet than before.

The average cost of a gastric balloon is $8,150. However, it is possible to find a lower price. Some providers offer this procedure for as little as $4,500. It is important to remember that this price does not include all the expenses associated with the procedure. Additional fees can easily double the cost of the procedure. Also, it is important to find a price that includes both the placement and removal of the balloon. In many areas, the procedure is billed separately from the removal.

The cost of the procedure varies by state, surgeon, and other factors. The procedure is not covered by most medical insurance plans. However, many bariatric centers offer financing options. Some offer no upfront payment for the first three to six months.