Insights from Bariatric Surgeon Izzettin Kahraman, MD
Is the Gastric Balloon Safe?
As a bariatric surgeon, I do frequently receive questions about the safety and efficacy of various weight loss procedures. One method that often comes up in conversations is the gastric balloon. Especially for individuals who are not ready for surgical interventions but need an effective tool for weight loss, the gastric balloon offers a minimally invasive option. However, it’s natural to wonder—is the gastric balloon safe?
The Gastric Balloon: What You Need to Know
The gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss procedure that helps you manage your eating by reducing the space available in the stomach. This procedure involves placing a silicone balloon inside the stomach, which is then filled with saline. The balloon occupies 2/3 of the stomach, helping you feel full sooner and thus eat less.
Because the procedure is performed via endoscopy, under mild sedation, it does not involve any incisions, reducing many risks associated with surgery. The balloon is usually removed after six months, giving patients time to establish new eating habits and work toward long-term weight management goals.
Is Gastric Balloon Safe?
In my professional experience, the gastric balloon is a safe procedure when performed on the right candidate and by an experienced medical team. However, like any medical intervention, it is not without its side effects or potential risks.
Common Side Effects
Following the procedure, you may experience nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort. These are normal reactions as the body adjusts to the foreign object. These symptoms are usually temporary and can be managed with medications. I always advise my patients to be prepared for this adjustment phase.
Other side effects include acid reflux and indigestion, which can also be managed with the appropriate diet and medications. Most patients find that these symptoms subside within the first few days to weeks after the procedure.
Potential Risks
While the gastric balloon is generally safe, there are some risks, if it is not properly performed, that you should be aware of:
- Balloon Deflation: The balloon can deflate prematurely, which could cause it to pass into the intestines and result in a blockage. This is a rare occurrence, and most balloons are designed with safety features to alert us if this happens.
- Ulceration and Gastric Perforation: In rare instances, the balloon may cause irritation, leading to ulcers or even a perforation of the stomach wall. This is why we monitor our patients closely, and I stress the importance of reporting any unusual or severe pain immediately.
- Infection: Although very uncommon, improper insertion or handling could introduce infection. Working with an experienced surgeon significantly reduces this risk.
Who Should Consider the Gastric Balloon?
As a surgeon, I always ensure my patients undergo a thorough evaluation before proceeding with any procedure. Not everyone is a suitable candidate for the gastric balloon. People with a history of gastrointestinal issues, severe acid reflux, or certain stomach surgeries may not be ideal candidates.
It’s important to understand that the gastric balloon is most effective when paired with lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular exercise. The balloon is a tool to help initiate weight loss, but maintaining that weight loss requires long-term commitment from the patient.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, when asked if the gastric balloon is safe, my answer is that, for the right candidate and under proper medical supervision, it is generally a safe and effective tool. The risks are minimal when compared to the benefits it can provide in terms of weight loss and overall health improvement.
That said, every patient is unique, and safety always comes down to individual risk factors. As a surgeon, I ensure each patient is well-informed and that we’ve considered every detail of their health history before moving forward. If you’re considering the gastric balloon, I encourage you to have an open conversation with your bariatric team to determine if this option aligns with your weight loss goals and health needs.
Dr. Izzettin Kahraman, MD, Bariatric Surgeon
