For those who wish to undergo a weight-loss procedure, the stomach balloon is a non-surgical, alternative method of bariatric surgery. Quick and painless, the procedure may be done in a physician's office without anesthesia, and you can return home to relax while you stomach grows accustomed to the balloon minimizing the stomach's capacity.
Procedure
To have any type of weight-loss surgery or procedure done, it must be approved by a physician. Typically, those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 to 40 or are 100 pounds or more overweight are considered to be a candidate for a weight-loss procedure.
Once you have discussed options with your physician, you may decide on the stomach balloon, also referred to as the gastric balloon. In the doctor's office, a thin silicone balloon (deflated) is inserted into the stomach through the throat using an endoscopic tube. It is then filled with either air or a saline solution to fill the capacity of the stomach, the volume depending on the doctor's suggestions.
The balloon increases feelings of fullness while eating, prompting you to take in less calories. The maximum amount of time the balloon is left in the stomach is six months. To remove, the balloon is deflated and brought out by an endoscope.
After the Procedure
Once you go home to relax after the procedure, you will begin to notice you get full faster after drinking or eating. For a few days after the insertion of the balloon, you may feel bloating, nausea or cramping, which may subside after a few days.
Immediately after the balloon procedure, drink only water for a few hours, and then drink nothing but soup or juice for three days. After the third day, start eating semi-solid food and then finally begin to eat a normal diet. A dietician will be able to help you choose foods with the most nutrition and guide you through the first few days of the balloon procedure.
Limit activity for the first week while your stomach gets used to the balloon. After the week, resume your normal activities.
Risk
As with any type of weight-loss procedure, there may be risks involved. The stomach balloon is one of the safest procedures; however, contact your physician immediately if you experience abdominal pain, stomach bleeding or if you suspect the balloon may be ruptured. If the balloon is ruptured, you may feel hungrier than normal, since the stomach is no longer full.
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