Gastric Balloon

A gastric balloon (also called an intragastric balloon) is a non-surgical weight loss device placed in the stomach to help people feel full sooner and eat less. It's typically used for people with obesity who haven't had success with diet and exercise alone and either don't qualify for or want to avoid bariatric surgery.

How It Works:

• A soft silicone balloon is inserted into the stomach via the mouth using an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube) while the patient is sedated.
• Once in the stomach, the balloon is filled with saline or gas.
• The balloon partially fills the stomach, limiting how much food it can hold and slowing gastric emptying, which increases satiety (the feeling of fullness).
• It usually stays in the stomach for 6 months, though some newer versions can last up to 12 months.