The gastric balloon procedure helps you to feel fuller when you eat smaller amounts of food. Over time, this natural caloric restriction can help you lose weight. Gastric balloons are time-tested, research-backed, and safe. However, they are a weight loss solution for specific conditions.
Gastric balloons are ideal for people struggling to lose weight despite changes in their diet and exercise routines. If you have a BMI between 30 and 40, have not previously undergone any type of weight loss surgery, and you’re healthy overall, you may be a good candidate for this procedure.
There are a few different types of gastric balloons, but overall, they perform the same function in your body: they take up space in your stomach to help you feel fuller and lose weight faster. Here are two common types that we offer at Formation Med.
Like with the Orbera, a doctor will place the balloon endoscopically within a 30-minute procedure. However, unlike other balloons, this model can stay in the stomach for up to eight months and is adjustable. Your doctor can deflate or inflate the balloon in increments, increasing the balloon up to twice its size (4m to 8m) as your stomach adjusts, for maximized support.
The only adjustable gastric balloon in the world, Formation is proud to be one of three offices in Florida that offers the Spatz3. The Spatz3 organization actually selected Formation as a trial location to bridge the proven technology here in the US, as it had already seen considerable success in other countries. Because of this, the team at Formation is able to pass considerable savings on to their clients during this initial “trial” phase.
At Formation, we offer both types of weight loss procedures and are happy to guide you if you are still deciding which is suitable for you.
If you are healthy overall, have a BMI between 30 and 40, and intend to use the gastric balloon procedure as the beginning of a new lifestyle, you may be a great candidate for this procedure. Remember, the balloon should not remain in your stomach indefinitely. The goal is to use the balloon to train your body and mind to eat less over time.
Gastric balloons are an effective weight loss technique when paired with sufficient exercise and a healthy diet.
If you’re looking for a quick fix, a balloon isn’t your answer. The results come from adjusting to your new eating habits integrated with your gastric balloon. Without proper diet and exercise, it’s possible to regain weight after the balloon’s removal. However, the good news is that the changes you are making are a long-term commitment to your healthy lifestyle.
Some other considerations for a gastric balloon procedure include:
Medical professionals typically view gastric balloons as safe, and these devices have a low risk of complications. Most complications, such as ulcers, happen if you leave the balloon in your stomach for too long.
You may experience uncomfortable side effects such as nausea or stomach aches when the balloon is in, but these symptoms are not life-threatening. In very rare cases, it’s possible to develop pancreatitis.
You may feel slightly uncomfortable after the procedure, but you should not be in pain (if you are, contact us immediately). Most people do not feel hungry during the first week after surgery, but it’s essential to continue eating small amounts of food as you adjust to your balloon. Your provider will likely recommend a diet of broths, soups, and thicker liquids during the first few days of recovery as you adjust to the feeling of ingesting food and liquid with a balloon.
After the first few weeks, your appetite should return. You can eat more food in one sitting with the balloon, but it’s important to pace yourself and watch for signs of overeating (such as acid reflux and nausea).
It’s also essential to develop a healthy, sustainable exercise routine during this time. Focus on what you enjoy, and don’t force yourself to start a routine you dislike. Consider walking around the neighborhood, jogging on your favorite trail, or joining a fitness class with a friend.
For your safety, a medical professional should remove your balloon after the prescribed amount of time, as this device is not designed for long-term use. Your provider will give you a mild sedative and remove the balloon endoscopically. Removal is not surgical, and there will be no incisions.
Post-removal is a crucial time for maintaining healthy habits and learning to pace yourself with an empty stomach. You should continue your exercise routine and pay special attention to maintaining a healthy diet.
Because we know that changing your lifestyle can be challenging, Formation has nutritional and lifestyle coaches just for this reason. We will help you create a routine and diet that you enjoy.
You likely have several questions about the weight loss balloon procedure and whether it’s appropriate for you – don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office if you have additional concerns.
Most gastric balloons will last for about six to eight months, depending on if its Orbera or Spatz3. Talk to your provider about your individual case and how long you can expect to live with your balloon.
Gastric balloons are for people who need to lose a moderate amount of weight. Many people lose up to 50 pounds six months after balloon placement!
After balloon placement, your provider may want you to maintain a liquid diet for a few days. After this phase, you should eat a healthy diet that includes lean protein, healthy fats, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Speak to your doctor or nutritionist if you wish to create a tailored diet plan for your time with the gastric balloon.
Formation Med offers accommodation packages, including transportation to your hotel (for out-of-towners), overnight nursing, coaching, and nutritious meals after your procedure. We will gladly assist you in any way possible.
We look forward to helping you reveal the best version of yourself!
