Overview
Duration of Procedure
20-30 Minutes
Sensitivity Time
1-10 Days
Sleep at the Hospital
0 Days
Anesthesia
Sedation
Healing Time
3-5 Days
weight loss
10-15 kg
Return to Activities"
1-2 Days
Success Rate
100 %
Travel Back
1-2 Days
Results
3-4 Months
Gastric Balloon
Understanding Gastric Balloon
In Turkey, the gastric balloon procedure offers a non-surgical approach to weight reduction by inserting an intragastric balloon into the stomach. This placement restricts food intake, leading to weight loss as the patient feels full even after consuming a small meal.
The gastric balloon procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and typically lasts about an hour. It is notably simpler compared to other bariatric surgeries like gastric sleeve or gastric bypass. There exist three types of gastric balloon operations, with the most suitable type determined by the patient's body weight and body mass index:
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Orbera: Involves the placement of a single deflated balloon in the stomach, which is then filled with saline solution.
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Reshape: Utilizes two balloons similar to Orbera.
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Obalon: Administered through small capsules, this type of balloon is filled with nitrogen gas once inside the stomach.
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The balloon remains in the stomach for a duration of six to nine months, with the specific timeframe determined based on the patient's weight.
Who Is Suitable For Gastric Balloon?
Individuals contemplating gastric balloon surgery as a means of weight loss must recognize that the procedure is not suitable for everyone. Here are some potential candidates for the operation:
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Individuals grappling with obesity and seeking to shed excess fat.
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Candidates should have a fat mass index falling between 30 kg and 35 kg.
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Prospective patients should be free from conditions that might impede the operation, such as gastritis or ulcers.
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Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
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Those who have not undergone prior gastric or esophageal surgeries.
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Individuals who have unsuccessfully attempted to lose weight through conventional methods such as diet and exercise alone.
Pre-Operative Advice For The Gastric Balloon
Before undergoing gastric balloon surgery, it's essential to adhere to specific guidelines and recommendations to ensure a smooth procedure. Here are some key pre-operative tips:
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Refrain from eating and maintain a fasting period of four hours before the operation.
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Provide your complete medical history to the doctor, including any existing medical conditions, medications, or ongoing treatments.
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Undergo any necessary X-rays or diagnostic tests to assess your suitability for the surgery and ensure your safety.
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Avoid the consumption of blood-thinning substances such as certain vitamin combinations, alcohol, and green tea.
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Cease smoking for at least a week prior to the scheduled gastric balloon surgery.
Stages Of Gastric Balloon Operation
The gastric balloon procedure follows a series of straightforward steps, outlined below:
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Initial assessment: The doctor conducts a clinical examination to evaluate the excess fat mass and determine the targeted reduction. Additionally, the doctor identifies the patient's desired outcomes.
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Patient preparation: Medical personnel prepare the patient for the gastric balloon operation. The anesthesiologist administers local anesthesia to numb the area, while the patient may also receive a sedative to promote relaxation during the procedure.
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Gastric balloon insertion: In cases where the Orbera or Reshape method is employed, the doctor places the balloon into the mouth using an endoscope. Alternatively, with the Obalon method, capsules containing the balloon are ingested by the patient.
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Balloon filling: Depending on the chosen method, the balloon is filled with either saline solution (Orbera or Reshape) or nitrogen gas (Obalon) to achieve the desired size and effect.
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Balloon removal: Following a period of six to nine months, during which the patient maintains their regular lifestyle, the balloon is removed from the stomach by the doctor.
Post-Operative Advice For The Gastric Balloon
Following gastric balloon surgery, it's crucial for patients to adhere to specific guidelines provided by the doctor to achieve optimal results and minimize potential side effects. Here are some post-operative instructions:
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Adhere to a prescribed diet plan tailored for the post-surgery period.
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Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water before and after meals once the gastric balloon is in place.
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Refrain from smoking for a minimum of two weeks following the procedure to support healing and recovery.
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Obtain any necessary pain relief medication prescribed by the doctor to alleviate discomfort as needed.
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Avoid lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous activities immediately after the procedure to prevent complications.
