Whilst risks and complications exist for all medical procedures, and the gastric balloon is no different. However, with obesity still on the rise in the UK, and with it the myriad of associated impact on health, it’s safe to say that the benefits of these revolutionary weight loss devices outweigh the potential negatives, at least for our patients.
A gastric balloon is famously temporary and is designed to provide the patient with a break from hunger, allowing them to more effectively change their habits and lose weight. With Allure, patients have the privilege of working with a HCPC registered dietitian to help them make those essential lifestyle changes for long-term success. Our aftercare service is a celebrated part of what we do at Allure, and to us is fundamental to the success of our patients.
Reducing Comorbidities
Weight related health conditions such as joint pain, type 2 diabetes, breathlessness, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, and increased sweating (amongst many others), can be improved and sometimes cured by overcoming obesity and getting your body to a healthier weight.
Types of Gastric Balloon
Allure Weightloss are pleased to offer the BiB gastric balloon and the Orbera 365 12 month gastric balloon to patients at several clinics in the UK. Patients can typically expect to lose on average between 10 – 18% with these gastric balloon tools. 50% of this weight loss occurs in the first month of placement regardless of the model of balloon that it chosen. More weight can be lost when the balloon is accompanied by a healthy diet and exercise program.
Gastric balloons work by occupying around 60% of the stomach, delaying gastric emptying, and repressing production of the hunger hormone, ghrelin. To quality for a gastric balloon procedure, patients will need a minimum body mass index (BMI) of 30.
The Orbera 365
The only FDA approved gastric balloon that can be in place for up to 12 months, the Orbera 365 has been placed over 500,000 times across the globe. This model requires an endoscopy at placement and removal, and is generally considered the most flexible option as patients can arrange to have it removed at any point with no extra cost. Due to the sedation you will remain under observation for two hours after the procedure and will not be able to drive for 24 hours.
The BiB
The BiB is similar to the Obera in how it is placed, and it has been placed over 300,000 times worldwide. Patients using a BiB balloon can typically expect to see a loss of around 34-48% of their excess body weight. This balloon is a great tool for patients to start losing weight and develop the habits and lifestyle changes that are needed to maintain weight loss after the deflated balloon is removed endoscopically.
Surgical Alternatives
If you are looking for a more permanent solution, bariatric surgery may be a better option. At Allure this includes the gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and mini gastric bypass. These permanent solutions are more invasive however, for those needing more support they can be a better solution when trying to meet their weight loss goals.
Ask About Gastric Balloons Today
Speak to a patient advisor to discuss your medical weight loss options today and kickstart your weight loss journey.
