With a history spanning more than 20 years, gastric balloons are by no means a new medical weight loss device. Allure Weightloss are specialist providers of two distinct types; the Allurion Balloon and the Orbera 365. They differ mainly in their application but possess the same function: weight loss. Each balloon lasts for a specific duration at which point it will deflate and pass naturally or be removed via an endoscopic procedure. Gastric balloons are a temporary medical device and therefore lifestyle and habit changes must be made in order to maintain weight loss. Average expected total body weight loss with a balloon varies between 10 and 18% depending on device fitted.
Eligibility
Several aspects come together in order to determine your eligibility for a gastric balloon. These include your BMI and medical history (including surgeries and medications). For example, your BMI must be between 27 and 55 for the Allurion Balloon, and between 30 and 50 for the Orbera 365. Your eligibility may determine the gastric balloon you can have. Our patient advisers will help determine your eligibility.
The Allurion Balloon
The Allurion Balloon comes in the form of a swallowable capsule attached to a catheter. Not requiring an endoscopy or sedation, this has been described as the most simplistic balloon option. Designed to pass naturally at around 16 weeks, the Allurion Balloon provides a break from hunger by occupying 60% of the stomach, reducing the hunger hormone, and by delaying gastric emptying.
The Orbera 365
Commonly referred to as the 12 month gastric balloon, the Orbera 365 is FDA approved to stay in the stomach for up to 12 months. In this respect it is the most flexible balloon in terms of length of placement. The Orbera 365 requires a light sedation and an endoscopy to place. The recovery diet consists of 1 week of liquid, 1 week of purees, and 1 week of soft solids, moving onto solids.
Your Gastric Balloon Placement Day
The balloon you choose will change the way your placement looks. In the case of the Allurion Balloon, patients will visit their nearest clinic for a twenty minute procedure that involves two x-rays to determine placement has been completed successfully. The Orbera is a little more elongated, in that after a 20 – 30 minute endoscopic procedure, the patient will be observed for two hours due to the light sedation that has been used. After which, the patient will be dismissed. Orbera patients will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours.
Your gastric balloon procedure will be performed by one of our specialist Consultants, each hand-picked for their talent and experience. The procedures take place at one of our twelve (and counting) clinics across England and Wales. Find your nearest clinic online today.
Expected Symptoms
Patients can expect to experience several symptoms, especially in the first 3 – 4 days of placements. We commonly refer to these as ‘initial symptoms’ that are caused whilst your stomach is trying to break-down and get rid of (or ‘fight’) the balloon. Patients should understand that these symptoms are natural and expected as a result of your body trying to rid itself of a foreign object. Prospective patients should also understand that your body will adjust to the placement, and symptoms (in normal cases) subside.
As a medical procedure, other potential risks and complications do exist and our advisers will discuss these with you when you enquire.
Aftercare
Allure Weightloss offer a celebrated aftercare programme complete with multiple 1-1 dietetic and nurse sessions. This ensures patients are able to make the lifestyle changes necessary to facilitate long-term success (and feel appropriately supported doing so). By having professional gastric balloon aftercare, you will aim to gain the knowledge necessary to maintain and continue weight loss beyond placement.
Cost
The cost of a gastric balloon placement start from £4150 for the Allurion Balloon and £4650 for the Orbera 365. Prices vary depending on location. Finance options are available and the cost may be spread over 6 or 11 months with an initial deposit.
Contact Us
For more information or to get the ball rolling regarding your gastric balloon placement, get in touch with a friendly member of our team today by calling 0345 512 0094. Alternatively, you can email info@allureweightloss.com or fill out our enquiry form.
Allure Weightloss is a CQC registered provider of gastric balloons and bariatric surgery.
