What is a gastric balloon?

A gastric balloon is a soft silicone balloon that is surgically inserted into your stomach. The balloon is then inflated with air, or saline solution, taking up some of the space in your stomach. This serves to limit food intake, helping you to lose weight.

The procedure is a short-term weight loss treatment and provides an alternative to invasive weight loss procedures. This procedure is only a temporary measure, and the balloon is usually removed after 6-months. The balloon is removed in the same way it was inserted.

This procedure is not recommended for patients who are within the healthy BMI range.

What happens during the surgery?

You will have an initial consultation with your surgeon to discuss the suitability of the procedure, to communicate your desired goal, discuss options, and discuss the details of the procedure. Your surgeon will usually request for you to undergo some tests to determine your suitability for the procedure. Your surgeon may also require you to follow a diet and activity plan, abstain from smoking and being around second hand smoke (if applicable), and discontinuing certain medications (if applicable). Once all of the details are agreed upon and confirmed, a date for the procedure is set.

Prior to the procedure, a general anaesthetic is usually administered. There are generally two techniques in a gastric bypass procedure – the open surgery technique, or the laparoscopic technique. In the open surgery technique, a large incision, usually 8-10cm long is made into the abdomen to expose the surgical area to enable the surgeon to re-adjust the size of your stomach so that only a small part of the stomach functions. This smaller stomach pouch is significantly smaller in size and is connected directly to the middle portion of your small intestine, bypassing the rest of your stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine. In the laparoscopic technique, a technique which most surgeons utilize, a surgical telescope is inserted through several small incisions, guided by a camera and has surgical instruments attached to perform the procedure. Many patients prefer the laparoscopic technique as it is less invasive than open surgery and has a quicker recovery period.

The procedure usually takes approximately 2-4 hours. If the laparoscopic technique is used for the procedure, most patients are discharged from the hospital after 2-3 days post-procedure. However, you can expect a longer stay in the hospital if the open surgery technique is used.

Post-procedure, you will only be able to consume liquids for the first day or two. You will usually be able to slowly introduce solid foods after the second day. It is common to experience some pain, discomfort, and nausea. Your surgeon would usually prescribe you with a special diet plan post-procedure. You should be able to return to work within 1-2 weeks post-procedure so long as it does not involve any strenuous activity or heavy lifting. You should be fully recovered within 4-weeks post-procedure, and showing signs of weight loss.

How do I find the right surgeon?

The best way is to speak to a few surgeons and find out which surgeon you are most comfortable with. At Holiday Health, we can connect you to reputable and reliable surgeons. We strongly suggest you take into consideration that the surgeon you choose:

• is reputable and trustworthy;
• has a proven track record;
• is registered with or accredited by their local government or the governing medical body or association;
• has never been disqualified from practising anywhere in the world;
• has never been found guilty of endangering a patient’s life; and
• has never been found guilty of malpractice.

You should also include any preferences you might have. For example, you might be more comfortable with a female surgeon, or someone who has more experience.

Important 

Before your procedure, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve with your surgeon. Communication is vital in reaching your goals. Ensure you communicate your vision clearly to your surgeon and re-confirm the intended procedure to ensure there is no miscommunication. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure, and what long-term benefits and side-effects you may experience. Every patient is different, and your specialist will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you.

Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided.

Please note. The information found on this website is purely for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon for its exactness or for its accuracy for your specific situation and/or for your specific procedure. The information provided is not a substitute for advice from your physician / surgeon as it may not contain all the known facts, risks and side effects of this procedure. Please consult with your physician / surgeon about your personal circumstances and about your personal procedure / treatment plan. We take no responsibility for any misinformation, inaccuracies, or for any loss or damage suffered by you in relation to the services we provide to you, or the information provided on our website.