Getting a Gastric Balloon to Control Weight
A gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss procedure that involves placing an inflatable balloon in the stomach. The balloon takes up space in the stomach, which reduces the amount of food that can fit in it and causes an earlier feeling of fullness.
Gastric balloons are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater, or 27 or greater with a weight-related condition, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
How a Gastric Balloon Works
The gastric balloon is placed in the stomach through the mouth, using an endoscope. An endoscope is a thin tube with a camera at the tip that is inserted into the stomach through the mouth or nose.
Once the balloon is in the stomach, it is inflated with saline solution. The balloon is filled with between 400 and 700 milliliters of saline solution, which is equivalent to about a glass of water.
The balloon remains in the stomach for six months, after which it is removed through the endoscope.
Benefits of a Gastric Balloon
Gastric balloons can help people lose weight significantly. Studies have shown that people who undergo a gastric balloon procedure lose an average of 20 to 30 pounds.
Gastric balloons can also help improve obesity-related risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes.
Risks of a Gastric Balloon
Gastric balloons are a safe procedure, but they do carry some risks, such as:
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Acid reflux
Infection
Balloon displacement
Cost of a Gastric Balloon
The cost of a gastric balloon varies depending on the type of balloon used and the location of the healthcare provider. In general, the cost ranges from $5,000 to $10,000.
When to Consider a Gastric Balloon
If you are considering a gastric balloon, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure. Your doctor can also help you determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
Conclusions
Gastric balloons can be an effective option for weight loss for people with a BMI of 30 or greater, or 27 or greater with a weight-related condition. However, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure before making a decision to undergo it.
Additional Information
In addition to the risks and benefits mentioned above, there are a few other things to keep in mind if you are considering a gastric balloon.
Gastric balloons are not a permanent solution to weight loss. You will need to make lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, in order to maintain your weight loss after the balloon is removed.
Gastric balloons can be uncomfortable for some people. You may experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and acid reflux during the first few weeks after the balloon is placed.
Gastric balloons are not always covered by insurance. You will need to check with your insurance company to see if they will cover the cost of the procedure.
If you are considering a gastric balloon, it is important to do your research and talk to your doctor to make sure that it is the right option for you.