What is Gastric Balloon? Can Every Overweight Individual Have Gastric Balloon Surgery?

Gastric balloon is a weight loss method that does not require surgery and is placed with endoscopy. This balloon placed in the stomach increases the feeling of fullness, helping patients eat less. It is suitable for individuals with a body mass index over 30 but not severely obese. The procedure is easy and offers quick recovery, but gastric balloon is not a permanent solution. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is important for permanent weight loss after the balloon is removed.

Publication Date 04 November 2024
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Updated Date 04 November 2024
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What is Gastric Balloon? Can Every Overweight Individual Have Gastric Balloon Surgery?


Obesity has become an increasingly prevalent health issue worldwide. This has led to a growing interest in non-surgical methods for weight loss. Gastric balloon is a non-invasive method that has become popular for individuals with excess weight problems, as it does not require surgery. This article will discuss what gastric balloon is, how it works, who can benefit from this method, and the potential risks involved.

What is Gastric Balloon?


Gastric balloon is a temporary, non-invasive treatment method used to support weight loss. This procedure, which does not require surgery, is performed using endoscopy. The balloon, inserted into the stomach through the mouth, is filled with saline solution to occupy a portion of the stomach, helping the patient eat less. The gastric balloon application takes about 15 minutes and is usually done under general anesthesia.

The placement of the balloon in the stomach helps the individual reach a sense of fullness more quickly. This enables patients to reduce their daily calorie intake and eventually lose weight over time.

Who is a Suitable Candidate for Gastric Balloon?


Gastric balloon is generally suitable for individuals who need to lose between 10 to 30 kilograms. Candidates should have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. However, gastric balloon is not recommended for severely obese individuals, as this method is typically suitable for moderate weight loss.

Additionally, individuals with stomach ulcers, stomach cancer, or those who have undergone stomach surgery in the past are not suitable candidates for gastric balloon. This method is also not recommended for children as long as it does not pose health risks.

Benefits of Gastric Balloon


The biggest advantage of gastric balloon is that it provides an opportunity to lose weight without surgery. Therefore, it is less risky compared to surgical methods such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. The key benefits are as follows:

Quick and Simple Procedure: Gastric balloon can be inserted quickly and does not require a lengthy recovery period. Patients can typically return to their normal activities within a day.
Temporary and Reversible: Gastric balloon is not permanent and is usually removed after 6 months. Removing the balloon is easy once weight loss goals are achieved.
Moderate Weight Loss: It is an effective option for individuals who cannot lose weight with diet and exercise without requiring surgery.

Risks and Precautions of Gastric Balloon


Gastric balloon is generally considered a safe procedure, but it also carries some risks. After the balloon is inserted, side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain may occur. These symptoms manifest as the body adapts to the balloon and typically subside within a few days.

Gastric balloon is not a permanent solution. To continue weight loss after the balloon is removed, it is important for patients to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise and balanced nutrition ensure sustainable weight loss.


Gastric balloon is an effective non-surgical treatment option for those seeking moderate weight loss. It can be preferred as an alternative to more invasive procedures like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. However, this method is not suitable for every individual. A medical evaluation and doctor's recommendation are necessary to determine whether gastric balloon is appropriate. Understanding how gastric balloon works can help individuals make more informed decisions on their weight loss journey.

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