If you are struggling with your weight and you can’t lose those unwanted pounds naturally, you might start considering other options. For instance, you might look up bariatric procedures but because this means you’ll be going under the knife, you might still be on the fence about it. If you want another option, you should consider a gastric balloon procedure.

If gastric balloon procedure is unfamiliar to you, you’re in the right place as Dr. Michel Kahaleh, respected endoscopist, gastroenterologist, and one of the best weight loss doctors in NJ shares what you need to know about this procedure:

What Is Gastric Balloon Procedure?

Gastric balloon procedure is a nonsurgical and short-term solution for people who need to lose weight. Compared to other bariatric procedures, gastric balloon’s concept is simpler and therefore easier to understand.

During this procedure, a soft balloon made of silicone is placed into the stomach using the endoscope, so it’s practically incision-less. An endoscope is a thin and flexible tube that has a camera and light at the end. This tool allows the doctor to navigate the stomach through the mouth and throat. Once the balloon is placed securely in the stomach, it is then filled with saline. As the balloon is too big to move towards other parts of the patient’s digestive system, it’s going to float in the stomach.

How Does This Work?

A patient with a gastric balloon will always feel half-full, which means they won’t be over-eating because they won’t want more nor can they eat more. To get maximum results, it is still recommended to follow a healthy diet and do regular exercise for optimum results.

Why Is the Gastric Balloon Just a Short-Term Solution?

It is mentioned at the beginning that gastric balloon procedure is a short-term solution. That is because the balloon will be removed after six to 12 months endoscopically, too. Additionally, it is a reversible procedure because it won’t change anything in the anatomy of the patient’s stomach.

What Outcome Can You Expect from a Gastric Balloon?

Gastric balloon procedures can help you in your journey to achieving a healthier body without the risk that comes with surgical procedures. That said, remember that this does not guarantee massive weight loss. Rather, it is a tool that can help you achieve your goals. It’s still your responsibility to reach your dream weight.

If you get the balloon program for 12 months, you’re going to have the balloon for half a year and once it is removed, you will work closely with a team of health and fitness experts who will help guide you through your lifestyle transformation. After all, you’re not going to have the balloon in your stomach, so whatever’s stopping you from overeating for the past six months is now gone. The challenge is for you to keep up with the healthier lifestyle you have started without the balloon in your body.

You can lose about 7% to 15% of your total body weight in the first six months after the balloon is placed. The total excess weight loss can be between 30% to 47% depending on how well you comply with the program.

Is This for Everyone?

While the risk is significantly less than surgeries and other treatments, there are still risks that you need to be aware of, including difficulty in consuming sufficient amounts of liquid, ulcer, and intolerance, among others. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you in detail while you talk about this procedure.

This procedure is recommended for patients with a BMI higher than 27, especially if the person has illnesses that are associated with obesity. It is also for patients 18-years of age or older.

Conclusion

If you are looking for weight loss procedures without surgery, a gastric balloon procedure is certainly worth looking into. It may be the best option for you if you don’t like the idea of getting surgery to lose weight and you need help controlling your eating habits.

Of course, you should only consult reliable weight loss doctors in NJ like Dr. Michel Kahaleh who has extensive experience with endoscopic procedures. Contact us to learn more about our services or get a telehealth booking today!