What to Expect with a Gastric Balloon Procedure Q&A
The gastric balloon procedure is a non-surgical weight loss option that helps reduce food intake by placing a balloon in the stomach. This procedure aids in achieving long-term weight loss by promoting a feeling of fullness. Dr. Vinay Katukuri, MD, at True Life Wellness, offers personalized care to ensure a smooth experience and ongoing support throughout your weight loss journey. For more information contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 809 E Oak St. Suite #201, Kissimmee, FL 34744.


Table of Contents:
What is an intragastric balloon for weight loss?
How much weight do you lose with a gastric balloon?
Is the intragastric balloon a permanent solution for weight loss?
What should I expect after the gastric balloon insertion?
At True Life Wellness, we provide innovative, personalized weight management solutions to help you achieve your health goals. One such option is the intragastric balloon procedure, a non-surgical approach designed to assist individuals struggling with obesity in their weight loss journey.
The intragastric balloon is a temporary, inflatable silicone device that is placed in the stomach using an endoscopic procedure. Once in place, the balloon is inflated with a sterile saline solution, which reduces the stomach’s capacity to hold food. This results in faster satiety, helping patients eat smaller portions and stick to a calorie-restricted diet, ultimately contributing to successful weight loss.
This procedure is ideal for individuals with a BMI between 27 and 40, who have not had success with traditional diet and exercise, or those who prefer a non-surgical option over bariatric surgery. The procedure is simple and typically takes about 30 minutes. The balloon remains in place for six months to a year and is then removed during a follow-up endoscopic procedure.
At our practice, we provide comprehensive support throughout your weight loss journey. Our team offers continuous guidance to help you build sustainable habits. While generally well-tolerated, side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort may occur. Our team is dedicated to promptly addressing any concerns you may have.
If you’re considering the intragastric balloon or exploring other weight management options, we offer consultations on various strategies to ensure you find the best fit for your needs. Schedule a consultation with our experienced team to learn more about how the intragastric balloon can help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Participants in our program typically experience weight loss of 20-35 pounds (9-16 kilograms) during the six months with the gastric balloon, which represents about 10% to 15% of total body weight. However, results can vary depending on individual commitment to lifestyle changes, and some individuals may continue to lose weight even after the balloon is removed.
Success in our program is supported by personalized dietary guidance, which will help you create a low-calorie, nutrient-rich diet plan. Our tailored fitness programs are designed to boost metabolism and increase calorie burn.
We are committed to providing you with the tools and support to sustain your weight loss after the balloon is removed. By integrating regular exercise and behavioral therapy, we help ensure your long-term success. Let us be your partner in achieving your weight loss and wellness goals.
The intragastric balloon is an ideal solution for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, particularly those struggling with obesity. While the balloon is in place for 6 to 12 months, patients follow a supervised diet and exercise program tailored to their unique goals. However, it’s important to note that the intragastric balloon is not a permanent solution for weight loss.
Adopting lasting lifestyle modifications is critical for long-term success. At True Life Wellness, we work closely with patients to prepare for life after the balloon is removed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity to sustain weight loss. We provide education and support throughout the process to ensure lasting results.
If you’re considering the intragastric balloon, we encourage you to consult with our healthcare professionals to discuss eligibility, understand the risks, and develop a personalized plan that supports your long-term weight management goals. Together, we can help you take the next step toward lasting wellness.
After the gastric balloon insertion, your body will start adjusting to the balloon, and you may experience some initial discomfort, such as mild nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. These symptoms are generally temporary and should subside within a few days to a week. We may prescribe medications to help ease these symptoms and prevent dehydration during this period.
Dietary modifications are crucial in the post-procedure phase. We will provide you with comprehensive dietary guidelines to help your body adjust to the balloon. Initially, you’ll begin with a liquid diet, gradually transitioning to soft foods and, eventually, to a more regular diet, all under our careful supervision. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is essential, and we recommend avoiding carbonated drinks and caffeine to minimize discomfort.
The gastric balloon reduces food intake by creating a sense of fullness, significantly supporting weight loss. At True Life Wellness, we emphasize adopting a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition and regular physical activity, to sustain weight loss and improve overall health. Our team will develop a personalized eating plan and exercise regimen to help you achieve your goals.
Regular check-ups are essential for tracking your development. These visits allow us to adjust your diet and exercise plans as needed to ensure successful weight loss. We may also make adjustments to the balloon if necessary. Additionally, we offer support to help you adapt to lifestyle changes and manage any emotional or behavioral factors related to eating.
The gastric balloon is typically removed after 6-12 months through a simple endoscopic procedure. While the initial adjustment period may be challenging, True Life Wellness is dedicated to making this journey as effective and supportive as possible. By combining the gastric balloon with lifestyle changes, you can achieve significant weight loss, and our team is here to provide continuous support, ensuring your success every step of the way. Your health and well-being are our top priorities. For more information contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 809 E Oak St. Suite #201, Kissimmee, FL 34744. We serve clients from Kissimmee FL, Southchase FL, Meadow Woods FL, Celebration FL, St. Cloud FL, Buena Ventura Lakes FL, Williamsburg FL, Hunters Creek FL, and surrounding areas.


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