What Is a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon, also called an intragastric balloon, is a temporary device placed inside the stomach to support weight management and help patients feel full sooner. By taking up space in the stomach, it may help reduce the amount eaten at meals. It is not bariatric surgery, but placement is a medical procedure and requires assessment and follow-up.
A gastric balloon does not guarantee lasting weight loss on its own. Nutrition changes, physical activity and support from a healthcare team are important parts of treatment.
Who May Be a Candidate for a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon may be considered for adults seeking temporary, non-surgical support for weight management who meet the criteria for the selected device. In some cases, it may be used to help a patient prepare for a more extensive obesity treatment. Assessment may include BMI, medical history, conditions affecting the stomach or oesophagus, medications and treatment goals.
Eligibility criteria and approved placement duration vary by balloon system and country. There is no single minimum BMI that applies to every device or patient. A specialist can explain which options are available and whether one may be appropriate.
How Is a Gastric Balloon Placed?
For an endoscopic balloon, a thin flexible tube with a camera is passed through the mouth into the stomach. The balloon is positioned and then filled with fluid or air, depending on the system. Sedation or anaesthesia may be used. Some systems are designed to be swallowed in a capsule; the method depends on the device.
Nausea, cramping, stomach discomfort or vomiting can occur after placement, especially during the first few days. Tell your medical team about symptoms that are severe, persistent or getting worse.
How Long Does a Gastric Balloon Stay in the Stomach?
The placement period depends on the balloon system. Many balloons are temporary and must be removed by a planned date; some are designed for around six months, while other systems may have a different approved duration. The removal plan should be made at placement, and follow-up appointments should not be missed.
Endoscopic balloons are usually deflated and removed with another endoscopic procedure. Some swallowable systems are designed to pass through the digestive tract after a set period. Your team should explain the removal or passage plan before treatment.
Gastric Balloon vs Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass
| Feature | Gastric Balloon | Gastric Sleeve | Gastric Bypass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment | Temporary balloon placed in the stomach endoscopically or by a device-specific capsule method. | About 75–80% of the stomach is surgically removed. | A small stomach pouch is created and part of the small intestine is rerouted. |
| Surgery? | Not surgery, but requires a medical procedure and follow-up. | Yes; it permanently changes the stomach. | Yes; it permanently changes the stomach and digestive route. |
| Duration | Temporary; removal or passage is planned according to the device. | Permanent; the removed stomach portion cannot be restored. | Permanent; the digestive system is rerouted. |
| Intestines | No change. | Not rerouted. | Food follows a changed route. |
| Follow-up | Nutrition support and timely removal are important. | Long-term nutrition, vitamin and health follow-up. | Long-term follow-up and supplements because of nutrient-deficiency risk. |
A gastric balloon is temporary and is not surgery. Sleeve and bypass are permanent surgical procedures. These options are not direct substitutes; treatment choice requires individual medical assessment.
Who May Be Considered for a Balloon, Sleeve or Bypass?
A gastric balloon may be considered for:
- People seeking temporary, non-surgical support who meet the selected device’s criteria.
- People ready to take part in a nutrition and lifestyle programme and attend follow-up.
- Some patients who are preparing for another obesity treatment and may benefit from weight reduction first.
Gastric sleeve or gastric bypass may be considered for:
- People who meet medical criteria for bariatric surgery and are considering a permanent surgical treatment.
- Some patients whose type 2 diabetes or significant reflux leads the specialist to consider gastric bypass.
- Some patients for whom sleeve gastrectomy, which does not reroute the intestines, is suitable based on health profile and reflux assessment.
These are general considerations and do not establish which treatment is right for a particular person. Surgical and non-surgical options should be reviewed in light of health, goals and risks.
Nutrition and Lifestyle Support
After balloon placement, diet usually progresses gradually from liquids and soft foods. Your healthcare team will provide an individual plan. Small portions, eating slowly, drinking enough fluids and following recommended activity guidance are important.
Continuing weight-management support after balloon removal may help maintain healthy habits and reduce the risk of weight regain. Follow-up may continue after removal.
Possible Side Effects and Risks
Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, abdominal discomfort and reflux can occur, particularly during the first days. Less common but serious complications may include ulcers, bleeding, balloon deflation or overinflation, pancreatitis, injury to the stomach or oesophagus, and bowel obstruction. Risks vary by device and individual health.
Seek urgent medical advice for severe or worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing or sudden changes in symptoms. Follow the removal plan and attend all recommended check-ups.
Learn More About Gastric Balloon Treatment
Contact our team to find out whether a gastric balloon may be suitable, which systems are available and how balloon treatment compares with surgery. Our specialists can review your health, needs and expectations and provide tailored information.
Medical note: This page is for general information and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Eligibility and treatment choice must be determined by a qualified specialist.
