What is the intragastric Balloon?

This is an innovative and non-surgical approach to weight loss. A soft silicone intragastric balloon in temporarily placed in the stomach for 6 months. The balloon creates a feeling of fullness and encourages healthy portion control. At NQOSC, the program is combined with a personalised support program of nutrition and exercise. The intragastric balloon is the kick-start to weight loss goals that many people have been looking for.

Who is a candidate?

• To qualify for this procedure you must be overweight with a BMI of at least 27.
• This procedure is designed for patients who do not qualify for surgical weight loss procedures, but still have excess weight to lose.
• Motivated and ready to fully comply with a serious, medically supervised program of diet and exercise.

How much weight will I lose?

• The amount of weight lost depends entirely on how well you adapt to the system, alter eating behaviours, and adopt an exercise regimen
• A good aim is to try and aim for a loss of 1kg per week

How is the balloon put in?

• The balloon is inserted into the stomach through an endoscopic procedure (via the mouth). Placement procedure times can vary between 20-30 minutes
• Light sedation only is required
• Once inside the stomach, the balloon is filled with saline water through a small filling tube
• You are free to go home after 1-2 hours

How is the balloon removed?

• The balloon is removed in the same way it was placed
• It will be punctured and the saline water will be suctioned up through a tube
• Once deflated, the balloon with be removed through the oesophagus under endoscopic observation
• Again, a light sedation will aid this procedure

Will I put the weight back on?

• The aim of the balloon is to assist you in making changes to your lifestyle that will enable you to lose weight and keep the weight off.
• At NQOSC we have tailored a package, which includes close monitoring by both our team and a dietitian and exercise physiologist pre and post procedure. Once the balloon is removed, we continue to support you in making necessary changes to your eating and exercise habits.

What are the side effects?

• Side effects such as nausea and vomiting will be experienced during the first few days as the stomach gets used to the presence of the balloon.
• These side effects can often be managed with regular medication and we will make sure that you are sent home with adequate anti-nausea medication.

What can I eat afterwards?

• Once the balloon is in place, it can take some time for the stomach to adjust to its presence.
• For the first week patients will be on a fluid diet
• After that, it should take about one week to make the transition from puree to soft and soft to normal food.
• This allows you to adjust to the balloon and also helps retrain your appetite for a healthier lifestyle