Gastric Balloon for Weight Loss
The Allurion Intragastric Balloon System, also known as the gastric balloon, offers a gentle way to reduce weight. The Allurion technology involves a balloon placed inside a small capsule, which is swallowed by the patient under medical supervision and introduced into the stomach with the help of water. No endoscopy, surgery, or anesthesia is required. Once the balloon reaches the stomach, it is filled with a saline solution, and its position is verified using an X-ray.
When is a gastric balloon recommended?
The gastric balloon system is recommended for patients with increased body weight and obesity if their Body Mass Index (BMI) exceeds 27 (BMI > 27).
This method can be particularly useful for patients who have managed to lose significant weight, for example, from 130 to 100 kilograms, but then hit a plateau and require assistance.
Additionally, the gastric balloon procedure is suitable for those who find it difficult to follow strict diets or struggle with discipline. With the gastric balloon, weight loss occurs even if discipline is not perfectly maintained. However, better results are achieved when dietary recommendations and the program are followed.
It’s not just a gastric balloon; it’s a six-month program
As part of the program, the patient works closely with a nutritionist and a lead physician. During the initial consultation, the nutritionist develops an individualized nutrition plan for adaptation and weight reduction. Follow-up consultations occur every five weeks to adjust the plan and discuss the patient's progress and questions in person.
The patient also receives the Allurion smart scale, smartwatch, and mobile app. These tools help the patient communicate with specialists daily, receive reminders, and, most importantly, monitor weight changes.
The balloon remains in the stomach for 16 weeks, after which it naturally decomposes and is eliminated through the digestive system. The balloon fills the stomach, reducing hunger, providing a prolonged feeling of fullness, and slowing down food digestion. Combined with a personalized nutrition program, this approach leads to a weight loss of 20-25% of total body weight!
Procedure duration: up to 30 minutes. After the balloon insertion, a rest period of up to two days is recommended.