Gastric Balloon

A new minimally invasive weight loss procedure to change how and what you eat

The prevalence of obesity israpidly increasing in the UK, itis a serious health issue.

Around 2 in 5 adults are overweight and a further 1/5 of the populations are obese, many of whom go on to, or already suffer from serious medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and hypertension.

It is scientific fact that a healthy weight lessens the likelihood of developing these types of life threatening diseases.

NICE Guidelines state that the minimum BMI for gastric band or gastric bypass surgery is 35Kg/M2. However a Gastric Balloon is suitable for people with a BMI >25kg/M2.

The Gastric Balloon is ideal for people who have tried to lose weight through alternative methods such as diet, exercise or weight loss programs but have not managed to maintain their weight loss, failed to achieve their desired weight loss or want to prevent future weight gain.

If you have a BMI of >25Kg/M2 and would rather avoid surgery then a gastric balloon could be the best option for you. The gastric balloon procedure simply involves inserting a small balloon into the stomach which is then inflated, thus reducing the amount of food needed to feel full.

Why choose SurgiCare for a Gastric Balloon procedure?

SurgiCare are now offering Gastric Ballooning (The Gold Air Filled Intragastric Balloon).

Gastric Ballooning is an internationally acclaimed minimally invasive treatment suitable for anyone who is overweight or obese.

Gastric Balloon's are suitable for most people with a BMI of >25.

To find out more about a gastric balloon with Surgicare, get us to call you back or order a brochure today.

Why choose a Gastric Balloon?

The Air Filled ‘Gold’ Intragastric Balloon (Gastric Balloon) at SurgiCare

Am I suitable for a gastric balloon?
How does a gastric balloon work?
What are the benefits vs. Liquid Filled Balloons?
How long will it take to insert a gastric balloon?
What results can I expect from having a gastric balloon inserted?
How long is the recovery period having a gastric balloon inserted?
Are there any after effects to a gastric balloon?
Are there risks associated with having a gastric balloon inserted?
How much does a gastric balloon cost?
How do I arrange to have a gastric balloon?
Am I suitable for a gastric balloon?

If you are overweight and looking for a short-term solution to weight loss then a Gastric Balloon may be right for you. Losing weight will reduce associated health risks linked with a high BMI and works in conjunction with a supervised weight loss program. It can also work in preparation for other types of surgery where you may be too heavy or too high risk at your current BMI.

Gastric Balloon's aresuitable for most people with a BMI of 25. Call us or use our online form to arrange a consultation for a time and date that is good for you.

How does a Gastric Balloon work?

The Gold Air Filled Gastric Balloon is inserted via a long tube. It is then inflated with air, partially filling the stomach and inducing the feeling of fullness. The balloon will remain in your stomach for 6 months, after which it is then deflated and removed in the same way.

The Gastric Balloon helps you reduce your food intake by reducing the capacity of your stomach and therefore helping with the adoption of new eating habits. In conjunction with a tailored healthy diet plan, an increase in activity and behavior modification it will induce weight loss, which can be maintained.

What are the benefits vs. Liquid Filled Balloons?

The primary advantage is the difference in weight. An air filled gastric balloon weights approximately 30 grams, whereas a liquid filled gastric balloon weights between 500-700 grams.

Due to the lower weight, the side effects are significantly less causing less reliance on medication post procedure to control symptoms and therefore provide a much quicker recovery period.

Usually people go back to work within a couple of days.
It is thought that the intolerance and persistent vomiting associated with the fluid filled gastric balloon is caused by the ‘motion sickness’ the liquid creates.

The Gold coating on the Gastric Balloon protects the device from air escaping and therefore it will remain fully inflated for the duration of placement resulting in long lasting satiety and therefore weight loss.

How long does it take to insert a gastric balloon?

The gastric balloom procedure takes approximately 20 minutes under mild sedation. It does not require an overnight stay; you will be at the hospital for 3-4 hours in total.

What results can I expect from having a gastric balloon inserted?

The amount of weight loss will vary from person to person, but on average the patient can lose 50% or more of their excess weight.
How long is the recovery period having a gastric balloon inserted?
SurgiCare would recommend a recovery time of approximately 2-4 days as it is normal to feel tenderness and fatigue for a few days after the procedure. However some people do return to work sooner than this.

Are there any after effects to a gastric balloon?

During the first couple of days following insertion of the gastric balloon you may experience some discomfort as the stomach gets used to the presence of the balloon. You may experience; nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhoea, or cramping during this time until the body adjusts, however medication can alleviate these symptoms, which usually subside very quickly.

We offer a comprehensive and extensive post-operative care programme, which includes detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up contact with the nurse and dietitian. You will also be provided with a 24 hour help line number which will give you peace of mind that someone is on hand to advise you day or night.