What is a gastric balloon?

A gastric balloon is a sterile, silicone balloon that takes up space in your stomach, causing you to eat less and lose weight. Under the supervision of Dr. Ibikunle, you swallow a small capsule containing the gastric balloon. Once the capsule has reached your stomach, Dr. Ibikunle inflates the balloon with saline to fill a portion of your stomach. The procedure is painless and only takes about 15-30 minutes.

How does a gastric balloon help you lose weight?

Once the gastric balloon is inflated, it takes up space in your stomach, so there is less room for food. Dr. Ibikunle and his team help you develop healthy eating and exercise habits over the next six months.

As your new habits become routine, you lose weight, and you won’t have to worry about excessive hunger sabotaging your progress. After about six months, Dr. Ibikunle deflates the balloon and removes it under local anesthesia, so you remain conscious and pain-free.

Once the balloon is removed, Dr. Ibikunle monitors your progress over the next six months. He ensures you have the education and support necessary to continue to make healthy lifestyle choices that facilitate your weight loss.

What types of gastric balloons are available?

If you have a BMI over 30 but want to avoid weight-loss surgery, a gastric balloon may be your best choice. Two types are available at Atlanta Body Institute:

Obalon® 3-Balloon System

With the Obalon system, you begin with one smaller balloon in your stomach. After a period of time, Dr. Ibikunle adds two additional balloons, all three of which add up to the size of a grapefruit. This is a more gradual process, so you get used to eating smaller portions over time.

Orbera® Intragastric Balloon System

The Orbera system is a single balloon about the size of a grapefruit. The Orbera immediately takes up a larger space in your stomach so you eat less right away.

What results can I expect from a gastric balloon?

A gastric balloon can help you lose three times the weight you would lose with diet and exercise alone.* During treatment, Dr. Ibikunle teaches you healthy habits for weight loss. Maintaining these healthy habits after you’ve completed treatment enables you to keep the weight off.

Nonsurgical gastric balloons may be your best weight-loss solution. Call Atlanta Body Institute or schedule a consultation online today to learn more.

*Individual results may vary.