It is not a magic pill but a set of tools to help change your lifestyle: The Intragastric balloon device to kick start weight loss; a team of experts to guide you; and education and training to help you achieve a sustainable weight loss goal. Read more
You can expect to lose more weight. Because you will feel full sooner and longer after small meals - a result of the intragastric balloon placed in your stomach - you are better able to control your eating and make healthy changes in your eating habits.
Placement of the balloon generally takes between 20-30 minutes during which you will be lightly sedated. The deflated balloon is inserted into your stomach through your mouth (endoscopically). Immediately after the balloon is placed and filled with sterile salt water, you will remain in the clinic for observation until the doctor discharges you. The intragastric balloon is removed through the mouth in a similar manner, under the same supervised conditions. Read more
The first week you should not plan any heavy activity. Once your body has adjusted to the balloon, however, you can continue your normal activities. Starting a regular exercise programme is highly recommended and will improve your chances of success.
You will not feel like eating as much as you used to. In addition, if you eat fatty or sweet foods, you may feel sick. Excessive overeating while the gastric balloon is in place can be dangerous and can result in a serious medical condition. Alcohol in moderation is not excluded.
The first three to five days can be very difficult. Cramping, nausea and vomiting are normal and should be expected. It is very important that you follow the Healthier Weight instructions and drink plenty of fluids. You may be prescribed medications to ease the discomfort.
You should plan at least three days of inactivity to recover from the procedure. You will be able to resume normal activity sooner or later than this depending on how your body adjusts to the intragastric balloon.
There will be discomfort for the first few days. After that, the primary sensation of the device will be a feeling of fullness.
The gastric balloon must be removed after 6 months. If it is not removed at this time interval, it can leak and deflate. It will likely pass through your body naturally but in some cases it may need to be removed by a doctor.
The time frame for weight loss will vary from patient to patient and will depend, to a large degree, on how well they adapt to the gastric balloon, alter their eating behaviour and adopt an exercise regime. Experience has shown, however, that 70-80% of a patient's weight loss typically occurs during the first three months of treatment. Read more
Patients who alter their eating behaviour and adopt an exercise regime have seen the greatest and most sustained success. There are no miracles in weight loss, as you well know.
