There is a growing demand among bariatric patients for effective weight loss solutions. However, the high cost of bariatric surgery has made it inaccessible for many individuals until the weight loss balloon was made available in the US in 2015.
This bariatric procedure, also known as the gastric balloon, has been a more affordable alternative, gaining popularity among patients seeking a cost-effective and minimally invasive approach to weight loss. While it is a more affordable alternative, it\'s important to note that it comes with potential risks, like any medical procedure.
If you're considering a weight loss balloon, weighing the pros and cons of this bariatric method is important. To help you make your decision, here is a list of the benefits and drawbacks of this procedure.
Pros of Gastric Balloon
Non-surgical
The gastric balloon is a non-surgical and minimally invasive procedure that typically takes less than an hour to perform. In fact, most patients are discharged within a few hours or a day of the procedure, provided there are no complications.
Wondering how this procedure works? While the patient is mildly sedated, an endoscope with a deflated silicone balloon is inserted through the patient’s mouth. Guided by the endoscope’s small camera, the surgeon proceeds to place these balloons in the stomach before it’s filled with saline.
The balloon aims to occupy a huge part of the stomach, leaving a small space to store food and making patients feel satiated faster. This can decrease food intake and subsequent weight loss.
Temporary
Unlike other bariatric procedures, the gastric balloon stays in the patient’s stomach for only six months. During this period, patients are provided with the necessary support to help them learn to measure and control their portion sizes, engage in physical activities, and make healthier lifestyle choices that can last a lifetime.
This means that this method does not involve altering your digestive system or removing any part of your stomach to achieve the desired results. In addition, this device is meant for short-term use only; that’s why adopting a healthier lifestyle is a must for long-term weight loss success.
Safe and effective
The weight loss balloon underwent clinical trials before it was approved by the FDA and is being continued to be reviewed for its safety and effectiveness. Based on the initial trials of 326 obese patients, the group that received gastric balloons lost 6.8% of their body weight as opposed to the 3.3% weight loss of the group that didn’t.
Additionally, the study revealed that patients who received the gastric balloon continued to lose weight six months after the device was removed.
Cheaper than other bariatric surgery
Bariatric surgery in the US can range between $7,423 to $33,541 and can vary on various factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the Homepage location of the clinic, and the surgeon’s expertise. Keep in mind that these are usually base fees only and still don’t include associated fees.
Weight loss balloons typically range around $6,000 to $9,000, making it the cheapest bariatric procedure in the country. However, it's important to consult with your doctor to understand what's included in the treatment package. Additionally, you should be prepared to budget for any supplements or services that may not be covered in the package.
Most patients can qualify
Bariatric surgery is a safe weight loss option for patients struggling with obesity. However, meeting the necessary qualifications can be challenging, particularly when dealing with insurance providers who may have additional requirements beyond the procedure's criteria.
Nonetheless, the gastric balloon is usually offered as an alternative option if patients don’t meet the requirements for major surgeries. This is usually weight loss balloon in stomach the case if the patient is recommended to lose weight initially before undergoing other bariatric surgery.
So who can qualify for a weight loss balloon? Here are the following criteria that bariatric patients should meet:
- BMI between 30 and 40 no history of past bariatric procedure committed to adopting healthier lifestyle changes
Cons of Gastric Balloon
Weight loss results may take time
Gastric balloon patients can expect drastic weight loss following the procedure, as a strict diet will be required during the initial recovery phase. By the time the six-month period is over, patients can lose about 10-15% of their body weight and will subsequently lose more if lifestyle changes are adopted.
While weight loss may slow down after the balloon is removed, it's important to remain committed to the program in order to reach a healthy weight. Additional bariatric procedures may be an option for those still struggling to achieve their weight goals.
Lower weight loss percentage than other procedures
The gastric balloon has a lower weight loss percentage in general compared to other bariatric surgery, given that the procedure is only temporary and doesn’t alter anything in balloon weight loss near me the stomach.
Other factors that contribute to this method’s reduced weight loss include:
- Short recovery period. Bariatric surgeries such as gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy typically have longer recovery times compared to gastric balloon surgery. As a result, individuals who undergo these surgeries may need to follow a more stringent diet for longer than those who opt for a gastric balloon. Compliance with new diet and exercise. Not all patients will have the same weight loss results just because they had the same procedure done. As mentioned earlier, adopting healthier habits and routines post-bariatric procedure is the most important for long-term success.
Side effects post-gastric balloon
There are cases where some patients discontinue the six-month program due to extreme side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, acid reflux, and digestion issues.
Discomfort is usually common hours and days after the procedure since the stomach is still getting used to the balloon. However, if you're finding it challenging to eat or drink due to ongoing side effects, it’s important to consult your doctor immediately to determine the most appropriate course of action based on your circumstances.
Conclusion
The gastric balloon has become a promising alternative for those seeking an affordable and less invasive method for weight loss. While it has gained popularity among bariatric patients, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before making any decision.
With proper research and consultation with a healthcare professional, patients can decide whether the weight loss balloon is the right choice for them.