What is a Gastric Balloon ?

A gastric balloon is an effective weight loss method that doesn't require surgery and helps with weight management. Inserted into the stomach either endoscopy- assisted or in a swallowable form, the balloon reduces stomach volume, helping people eat less and feel fuller for longer.

What is an Endoscopic Gastric Balloon ?

An endoscopic gastric balloon is a fast and effective method for combating excess weight, requiring no surgery. This procedure, performed under sedation (light anesthesia), involves inserting a balloon into the stomach using an endoscope and inflating it with a special fluid to create volume. This procedure results in a person feeling fuller for longer, while eating less, and thus initiating weight loss.

How is a Gastric Balloon Applied?

Endoscopic Gastric Balloon

• The patient fasts for 8-12 hours before the procedure.
• The procedure is performed under sedation for approximately 15-20 minutes.
• With the help of an endoscopy device, the stomach is reached and the balloon is placed.
• The balloon is inflated with sterile fluid and the procedure is completed.
• The patient is discharged on the same day.

 Swallowable Gastric Balloon (Allurion Balloon)

It doesn't require endoscopy or anesthesia. The balloon, swallowed in capsule form, is inflated with an externally administered fluid once it reaches the stomach. After approximately 16 weeks, it dissolves on its own and is eliminated from the body naturally.

Is Gastric Balloon an Easy Procedure?

Yes, with advancements in technology , gastric balloon placement has become a remarkably easy, safe, and comfortable procedure. The endoscopic gastric balloon procedure is completed in approximately 15-20 minutes under light sedation, and the patient is discharged the same day. Furthermore, swallowable gastric balloon options (like Allurion) eliminate the need for endoscopy or anesthesia, and the procedure is completed by simply swallowing a capsule.

What are the advantages of a gastric balloon?

• No surgical incisions or stitches required
• The procedure time is short and you can return to normal life in 1 day.
• Accelerates weight loss
• Reduces the risks of metabolic diseases (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, etc.)

Who is Suitable for Gastric Balloon?

• Individuals with a BMI (Body Mass Index) between 27-40
• People who cannot lose weight with diet and exercise
• Individuals who do not want to undergo surgery
• Those who want to make a quick and motivating start

How Much Weight Can You Lose With a Gastric Balloon?

Gastric balloon application is an effective method for individuals who want to achieve healthy and permanent weight loss.

What is the Average Weight Loss?

With a gastric balloon, an average weight loss of 10 to 25 kilograms can be achieved in 6 months. This amount is

• Starting weight
• Age and metabolic rate
• Diet and exercise compliance
• It may vary depending on factors such as which type of balloon is used.

After gastric balloon placement, most patients lose 10% to 20% of their total body weight . For example:

A 100 kg individual can lose 10-20 kg with the balloon.

During the time the balloon remains in the stomach,

• If nutrition is arranged with the help of a specialist dietician,
• If exercise becomes a part of life,
• If eating habits are radically changed, the weight loss achieved by the balloon can be much greater and permanent.

When is the gastric balloon removed?

The removal time varies depending on the type of balloon:

Endoscopic gastric balloon: Remains in the stomach for 6 to 12 months . Swallowable gastric balloon (Allurion): After approximately 16 weeks (4 months), the balloon deflates on its own and is eliminated from the body naturally.

The duration of the balloon's stay in the stomach is determined by the manufacturer's recommendations and the patient's needs. It must be removed once the balloon is in place, otherwise it may cause stomach problems.

How is a Gastric Balloon Removed?

 Endoscopic Balloon Removal Procedure

• The patient comes to the hospital on an empty stomach on the day of the procedure.
• The procedure begins with light sedation.
• The stomach is reached with the help of an endoscopy device.
• The liquid in the balloon is evacuated.
• The deflated balloon is removed through the mouth.
• The procedure takes approximately 15-20 minutes and the patient is discharged after a few hours.

How to Remove Swallowable Balloons?

These balloons deflate on their own and are expelled from the body through the intestines. While no additional procedures are necessary, a doctor should always check to ensure the balloon is expelled naturally.

Balloon Removal Process at Magnet Hospital

At Magnet Hospital, gastric balloon removal is performed comfortably and safely by experienced gastroenterology and general surgery specialists using advanced endoscopy systems. Detailed information is provided before the procedure, and the patient is observed for several hours afterward.

Who is at Risk for Gastric Balloon?

A gastric balloon is not recommended in some cases and the risk may increase in the following individuals:

• Those who have had stomach surgery before
• Those with active stomach ulcers
• Severe reflux patients
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Individuals with psychological eating disorders

For this reason, a preliminary evaluation and detailed examination of the gastric balloon is mandatory at Magnet Hospital .

Are There Any Side Effects of Gastric Balloon?

In the first days, temporarily,

• Nausea and vomiting
• Mild stomach pain or cramps
• Throat irritation may occur during endoscopic procedures.

All these effects are managed safely with the support of Magnet Hospital experts.

Which Department and Doctor Should I See to Have a Gastric Balloon Inserted?

Gastroenterology and General Surgery are departments that can be consulted during the gastric balloon placement process.

Gastroenterologists are specialists who specialize in diseases of the stomach and digestive system. Because a gastric balloon procedure involves the stomach, a gastroenterologist can evaluate your stomach health and help determine if you're a candidate for this treatment. If you have a history of stomach problems or digestive issues, a gastroenterologist can further examine the potential impact of a gastric balloon on your health and assess the safety of the procedure.

General surgery is another department that may be consulted during the gastric balloon placement process. General surgeons, particularly bariatric surgeons, specialize in procedures such as gastric balloon placement for obesity treatment.

Your general surgeon will evaluate your suitability for a gastric balloon , perform the necessary medical tests, and plan the placement process. He or she will also consider any complications or risks associated with the procedure and then proceed with the procedure.

Gastric Balloon Prices 2025

As of 2025, gastric balloon prices will vary depending on the type of balloon used, the application method, and the patient's needs. A preliminary consultation is required for the most accurate pricing information.

Gastric Balloon Magnet Hospital

Magnet Hospital offers the most up-to-date methods offered by modern medicine in obesity treatment, with specialist physicians in the field. Gastric balloon procedures are performed with a multidisciplinary approach and individualized follow-up.

At Magnet Hospital, the gastric balloon is not just a procedure but a life-changing process. Comprehensive nutritional monitoring, regular checkups, and motivational support ensure patients achieve maximum benefit.