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Allurion Balloon Capsule Size Comparison, The Swallowable Gastric Balloon

The Allurion Balloon Placement Explained

allurion balloon swallowable gastric balloon
Allurion Balloon Capsule Size Comparison

The Allurion Balloon is the most simplistic gastric balloon that we have a programme dedicated to, and this simplicity really is what makes the balloon special. A swallowable gastric balloon, it comes in a capsule form, and the patient is encouraged to swallow it by one of our GMC registered Consultants.

The Allurion Balloon capsule itself is about the size of a locket, and most of our patients don’t struggle when it comes to swallowing it. If they do, the consultant is on hand to give them a hand and uses a stylet to encourage the process. Once in the stomach, confirmed by an x-ray, and sitting in the fundus, our consultant will then fill the balloon. After an additional x-ray the patient will be free to leave. All-in-all, the procedure lasts around 20 minutes from start to finish.

After the Allurion Balloon has been inserted, the patient will have what we call a ‘2-hour honeymoon period’. During this time the patient will recognise the balloon is inflated but will not be experiencing any symptoms yet. Symptoms kick in sometime after this point, although it varies, and last for a good three days. During this period, it is essential that patients keep hydrated no matter what, taking small sips and then increasing the amount of fluid when they are able.

The Allurion Gastric Balloon lasts around 16 weeks, at which point it is designed to deflate and pass naturally.

Other Gastric Balloons

The Orbera 365 is our 12 month gastric balloon in the UK, and differs notably from the Allurion in that is can stay in place for longer. Likewise, this balloon requires both an endoscopy and mild sedative at the placement and removal stages. There are many reasons why a patient may elect to have one balloon over the other, but the main one seems to be whether they believe they will get what they need to in terms of making a life-style change during the period of placement. Some are confident they will be able to achieve this in 4 months, and others not so much. It is completely up to you, and our specialists are always on hand to ensure that you make the right decision.

The side-effects of the Orbera 365 typically last longer than the Allurion Balloon, with a liquid diet required for up to a week, and then a slow transition to purees, soft-solids, and then solids in week 2/3. It is important that patients understand that all symptoms such as nausea, sickness, and even cramping are completely natural as your body is getting use to this alien structure that has made a temporary home in your tummy. Our dietitian, nurse, and support team will be on hand to offer support and advice every step of the way.

12 Month Gastric Balloon UK on a white Table

Allurion Balloon Enquiries Welcome

Want some more information? Sure! Simply get in touch with a friendly member of our medical weight loss team by calling, emailing, or using our enquiry form today. However, you get in touch, we look forward to helping you along on your weight loss journey and are exciting to get back to you as soon as possible.

Allure Weightloss is a CQC registered provider of gastric balloons.

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