A gastric balloon is a non-surgical, endoscopic procedure used to support weight-loss treatment. During the procedure, a balloon is placed inside the stomach and filled with liquid or air. By occupying a certain amount of space in the stomach, the balloon helps create an earlier feeling of fullness. This aims to reduce the amount of food consumed during meals and make portion control easier.

A gastric balloon may be considered for individuals seeking a non-surgical weight-loss option and who are found suitable by a physician. It is generally preferred by:

• Individuals living with obesity or excess weight
• Those who have not achieved sufficient weight loss through diet and exercise
• Individuals who are not suitable for bariatric surgery or do not wish to undergo surgery
• Those who want additional support with weight loss
• Individuals who are able to commit to weight loss and lifestyle changes

Gastric balloon placement can be performed using different techniques depending on the type of balloon used. With the most common methods, the balloon is placed in the stomach under endoscopic guidance and then filled with liquid or air to a predetermined volume.

Some newer-generation balloon systems are available as swallowable capsules and may be placed without endoscopy. The most appropriate method is determined by the physician according to the patient’s health condition, weight-loss goals, and the characteristics of the balloon system being used.

Endoscopic Gastric Balloon

The endoscopic gastric balloon procedure is generally performed under sedation. After the stomach is evaluated using a thin endoscope, an appropriate balloon is placed inside the stomach and filled with liquid or air, depending on the system used.

After the procedure, the patient is monitored for a short period and, in many cases, can return to daily activities within a relatively short time.

Swallowable Gastric Balloon

Swallowable gastric balloons are systems that can be placed without endoscopy or surgery. The patient swallows a capsule containing the balloon. Once imaging confirms that the capsule has reached the stomach, the balloon is filled to the appropriate volume.

With some systems, the balloon automatically empties after a predetermined period and can pass naturally through the digestive system. However, this method may not be suitable for every patient, and the process may vary depending on the characteristics of the system used.

The duration of use for endoscopically placed gastric balloons varies depending on the balloon model and the specifications determined by the manufacturer. Once the recommended period has been completed, the balloon is generally removed endoscopically.

During removal, the contents of the balloon are emptied before the balloon is retrieved from the stomach using an endoscope.

The choice of gastric balloon technique should be personalized for each patient. Before the procedure, the patient’s gastrointestinal system, existing medical conditions, previous treatments, and current medications are evaluated to determine the most appropriate method.

A gastric balloon is not an appropriate weight-loss method for every patient. Before the procedure, the individual’s overall health condition, gastrointestinal system, and existing medical conditions are evaluated to determine medical suitability.

Individuals who may not be suitable for a gastric balloon include:

• Those with active stomach or duodenal ulcers
• Individuals with anatomical abnormalities or severe narrowing of the stomach or intestines
• Those with serious uncontrolled gastrointestinal diseases
• Individuals who have undergone certain previous stomach or esophageal surgeries resulting in unsuitable anatomy
• Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Those with bleeding disorders or a high procedural risk due to the use of blood-thinning medications
• Individuals with serious health conditions that may prevent sedation or an endoscopic procedure
• Those who may be unable to follow the necessary dietary and lifestyle changes after treatment

The amount of weight that can be lost with a gastric balloon varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including starting weight, the type of balloon used, how long the balloon remains in the stomach, dietary habits, physical activity, and adherence to the treatment program.

By occupying space within the stomach, the gastric balloon helps promote an earlier feeling of fullness and supports smaller portion sizes, which may contribute to weight loss. The most successful outcomes are generally achieved when the procedure is combined with a personalized nutrition and lifestyle program.