Answers To 3 Common Questions About The Gastric Balloon

If you have not been successful losing weight through diet and exercise and are finally ready to seek medical assistance to get to a healthy weight, nonsurgical weight loss is an ideal option. The gastric balloon is a good first step on that journey and can even help you jump to start a weight loss. Alternatively, you can use it in order to get to a weight that would allow you to receive a gastric surgery. When making your weight loss goals, the following information about the gastric balloon will help you to determine what the most appropriate plan will be.

#1-Are There Different Types Of Gastric Balloon Procedures?

Your surgeon will discuss in more detail the merits and concerns associated with both of the gastric balloon procedures currently available. However, a brief overview is that you may have one or two balloons placed within your stomach, using a scope to do so. The decision about one versus two balloons is often based on your overall physical condition and the amount of weight loss you are hoping for. 

In addition, there are multiple brand options to choose from and each involves filling the balloon with saline or air, thus taking up space within the stomach cavity and preventing you from eating too much food. The balloon is present for up to six months, at which time it can be removed and replaced with another unit or you can prepare for a gastric surgery. 

#2-How Long Does It Take To Recover?

If you have ever considered more invasive gastric procedures like the sleeve or bypass, you already know that recovery from them can take quite a while. Therefore, you will be pleased to learn that a gastric balloon is much easier. Since it is not a surgical procedure, you may not need any type of anesthesia and the entire things usually takes about 30 minutes. After, you will typically spend about two or three days in the hospital before you are able to go home.

#3-Will There Be A Lot Of Side Effects?

It is important to note that changing your diet after getting the balloon is essential for many reasons. One reason is that the balloon is going to take up space in your stomach and as a result, eating too much at any one time will be a very bad idea. Doing so can result in pain, cramps, nausea and occasionally vomiting. During the first couple of weeks after the procedure, you are likely to experience some of those symptoms anyway, as your body adjusts to its presence.

Although each doctor may make some alterations, a common food plan immediately after you receive the balloon may involve only clear fluids for a day after the procedure. That will soon progress to clear liquids and within two weeks, you will probably be able to eat pureed foods. After that time, you should still plan on a diet consisting of many fruits and vegetables, as well as lean proteins and other healthy choices.

In conclusion, losing weight is never easy, but non surgical weight loss like the gastric balloon is often a great way to encourage your own weight loss. If you are ready to get healthy, when diets and exercise have failed, it is time to talk to your doctor about the gastric balloon. For more info on non surgical weight loss, contact a weight loss doctor in your area.