Weight reduction through endobariatric therapy: losing weight without surgery with the gastric balloon.

What is a gastric balloon and how does it work? A gastric balloon is an inflatable medical device that is inserted endoscopically into the stomach to promote satiety and reduce food intake. It offers a non-surgical option for people who want to lose weight.

Depending on the manufacturer, the gastric balloon can remain in the stomach for between 6 and 12 months and help with successful weight loss. In the meantime, you will make dietary adjustments with an interdisciplinary team and increase your physical activity so that you have the best possible starting conditions for a healthier life once the balloon has been removed.

The procedure with a gastric balloon:

Preliminary examination: An interdisciplinary assessment is carried out to check suitability for a gastric balloon. Placement of the balloon: Under light sedation, the empty balloon is inserted into the stomach through the mouth and then filled with liquid. Feeling of fullness: The balloon takes up space in the stomach, which leads to a faster feeling of fullness and reduced food intake. Accompanying measures: An individualized diet and exercise program is recommended to optimize weight loss.

Advantages of the gastric balloon:

Non-surgical: the gastric balloon is inserted and removed without surgery.
Quick placement: The procedure usually only takes about 20-30 minutes.
Weight loss support: The balloon promotes a feeling of fullness, making it easier to switch to a healthier lifestyle.

Disadvantages of the gastric balloon:

Like endoscopic gastric sleeve surgery in Switzerland, the gastric balloon is a self-pay procedure, as it is not usually covered by health insurance despite its effectiveness and low cost. Although the widespread epidemic of obesity with all its associated secondary diseases places a heavy burden on the entire healthcare system and patients, insurance companies prefer to pay for globules rather than for genuine preventive services that would be for the benefit of their policyholders.

Are there different types of gastric balloons?

• Adjustable gastric balloon (SPATZ3): While other types of gastric balloons can be used for weight loss, the Spatz3 is the only one that can be adjusted after placement in the stomach.
  In the early stages, the adjustable design can help patients who experience discomfort or balloon intolerance to easily remove a portion of the saline solution without having to remove the balloon itself.
  If weight loss stagnates during balloon treatment, the device can be readjusted by adding more saline to create a greater sense of satiety and improve weight loss results. The balloon is usually removed after 8-12 months with no permanent changes to your anatomy.

• Obera 365 Gastric Balloon: The ORBERA® Managed Weight Loss System is a non-surgical procedure that helps patients initiate and maintain long-term weight loss. The procedure involves inserting a small silicone balloon into the stomach under light sedation. Once the balloon is placed in the stomach, it is filled with saline solution. The inflated balloon takes up space in the stomach so that you feel fuller more quickly, eat smaller portions and lose weight. The balloon is usually removed after 12 months. While other types of gastric balloons can also be used for weight loss, the ORBERA® balloon differs in that it is completely smooth and contains no extra parts, which helps to minimize irritation in the stomach.
  Who is Orbera suitable for? ORBERA® is well suited for moderately overweight individuals 18 years and older who have not had success with diet and exercise alone, but still want to reduce their weight without surgery. The ORBERA® balloon offers an alternative to invasive surgical weight loss procedures and may be a good option for those who are reluctant to undergo surgery or do not want to take expensive medications such as Wegovy/Ozempic/Semaglutide or Mounjaro/Tirzepatide in the long term.

Is the gastric balloon the right choice for you? The decision to have a gastric balloon should be made on an individual basis. Consult your doctor to discuss your specific situation and evaluate the best options for your health.

Conclusion: The gastric balloon offers a gentle and non-surgical way to support your weight loss goals. If you would like to find out more or would like a personalized consultation, please contact us. Our team of experienced experts are on hand to guide you on your journey to a healthier lifestyle.