Am I suitable for a gastric balloon?

The qualifications for a gastric balloon are similar to that of other weight loss surgeries. The patient must be 18 years or older and without any psychological or medical problems that could make the procedure hazardous to the patient’s health. Additionally, the patient must have tried conventional forms of weight loss, such as dieting and exercise with little to no results.

The gastric balloon is not a viable option for patients who do not wish to maintain a healthy diet before and after the insertion of the balloon. The gastric balloon will not cause any long term changes to the shape or size of the stomach. It is a temporary solution that can jump start weight loss, but should not be relied upon as the only means of maintaining a healthy weight.

The gastric balloon may be suggested as a preparatory step for other weight loss procedures in order to lower the risk of complications, especially in cases of invasive surgeries for patient’s with high BMI’s. The balloon may not be an option, however, for those who have already had another form of weight loss surgery, especially gastric bypass.

Treatments for a variety of diseases may also prevent patients from qualifying for the gastric balloon. This includes any treatment that has caused damage to the stomach. Disorders that effect the stomach or digestive system may also prevent qualification.

The gastric balloon will not be inserted into women who are pregnant or breast feeding, those with diseases which prevent blood clotting, or those who have a history of substance abuse. The gastric balloon could be dangerous to individuals who fit any of the above criteria.

In healthy patients, there is very little risk of complications associated with the gastric balloon. Although rare, leakage or deflation of the balloons could occur. A patient with a gastric balloon experiencing abdominal pain or bleeding should contact their surgeon right away.

Additional risks include gastric problems, ulcers, and damage to the digestive system, windpipe, or stomach due to poorly inserted gastric balloons. The risks associated with the gastric balloon are minimal and side effects from insertion and removal are rare.

Long term effects of the procedures are unknown, but there has yet to be any serious complications associated with the gastric balloon.