Gastric Baloon

A gastric balloon, also known as an intragastric balloon, is a non-surgical weight loss procedure that involves placing a deflated silicone balloon into the stomach to create a feeling of fullness and reduce food intake. It is designed for individuals who may not qualify for or prefer to avoid invasive surgical procedures.

 

Types of Gastric Balloon

1. Swallowable Gastric Balloon (Elipse)

Swallowable gastric balloon is the newest gastric balloon option that does not require endoscopy, anesthesia and removal procedure, unlike the other conventional gastric balloon options. It uses same mentality of intra gastric balloons by taking up space in the stomach causing decreased appetite and feeling fullness faster that leads weight loss.

After swallowing a capsule attached to a string, it is checked on an x-ray device. Once it is determined that the balloon is in the correct position, the balloon is inflated. This procedure takes 15 minutes in total, and the patient is discharged directly. After the special enzyme (physiological saline) in the balloon expires (4-5 months), it is naturally eliminated from the body without the need for any intervention.This new method, which is especially suitable for patients coming from abroad, attracts a lot of attention among non-invasive weight loss methods.

How does Swallowable Gastric Balloon(Elipse) work in Turkey?

1Swallowing:
A vitamin-sized capsule attached to a string is swallowed with the help of water. When the stimulation point on the string reaches the point of touching the lips, we understand that the balloon has reached the stomach.
2Cheking Under X-Ray:
After swallowing, the balloon is checked under x ray device to determine if its in the right position. If its not in the right position, with the help of the string connected, the balloon position will be corrected.
3Balloon Expansion:
Once the balloon position is ensured, the balloon begins to be inflated. With the help of an air pump, the special liquid of the balloon inflates the balloon through the string attached to the balloon. After the balloon is inflated, the attached string is removed.
4Balloon Retention:
Allurion Program provides a 30-day warranty. If the balloon leaves the body before 30 days, the company is obliged to replace it with a new one. Although the balloon period lasts an average of 16 weeks (4 months), it can last up to 5 months in some patients.
5Balloon removal:
At the end of the retention period, the balloon is typically deflated and removed through a non-surgical procedure. The deflated balloon is passed through the gastrointestinal tract and eliminated naturally. Swallowable gastric balloons offer the advantage of being a less invasive option compared to traditional gastric balloons. They eliminate the need for endoscopy for both insertion and removal, which can make the procedure more accessible and convenient for some individuals. However, it's important to note that the specific details and requirements of the swallowable gastric balloon may vary depending on the manufacturer and the guidelines followed by your healthcare provider. It's recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide you with detailed information and determine if a swallowable gastric balloon is a suitable option for your specific circumstances.

Why Swallowable balloon is very convinient for patients coming abroad?

Gastric balloons are considered the most common and effective method among non-surgical weight loss procedures. The simplest, safest and most effortless option among gastric balloons is definitely the swallowable gastric balloon.

Here are the reasons:

1No Anesthesia;
Unlike the other conventional gastric balloons, swallowable balloon (Elipse) does not require an anesthesia due to its technological advance. The line connected to the capsule allows doctors to locate the capsule and forward it to the stomach without the need of anesthesia or any other invasive method.
2No Endoscopy;
Unlike the other conventional gastric balloons, swallowable balloon (Elipse) does not require an endoscopy. Since that it can be located manually by the doctor, there is no need for endoscopy and its linked tools to locate the balloon in the stomah. This makes it very easy and safe for the patients who are scared to have a procedure in general.
3No Removal Procedure
Unlike the other conventional gastric balloons, swallowable balloon (Elipse) does not require a removal procedure thanks to its technological advance. The special enzyme inside the balloon spontaneously extinguishes after 4 or 5 months and is eliminated from the body naturally, without requiring any intervention. Thus, the patients coming abroad does not have to come back again for the removal procedure. It will be a one time visit, unlike the other balloon procedures.
4Shorter Procedure Time
Thanks to its advantages like not requiring endoscopy or anesthesia, the whole procedure takes 10-15 minutes. Swallowable balloon is basically the most effective and simplest procedure you can get.

 2. 6 Months Gastric Balloon

6-month gastric balloon is a non-invasive and effective weight loss procedure that has been used successfully for years. The procedure is performed with sedation anesthesia and endoscopy. It is removed in the same way at the end of 6 months. It naturally decreases your stomach's absorption capacity, leading to a quicker sense of fullness, aiding in weight loss, and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

 

Here's an overview of the 6-month gastric balloon procedure:

1Insertion:
The deflated balloon is typically placed in the stomach using an endoscopic procedure. During this procedure, a thin tube with an attached deflated balloon is passed through the mouth and into the stomach.
2Expansion:
Once in position, the balloon is filled with a sterile saline solution to achieve the desired size.
3Removal:
At the end of the six or seven month period, the gastric balloon is removed. The removal procedure is similar to the insertion process and is usually performed through an endoscopic procedure. The deflated balloon is grasped with an endoscope and gently pulled out through the mouth. The 6-month gastric balloon is designed to be a temporary weight loss solution, offering individuals support and motivation during the initial phase of their weight loss journey. It serves as a tool to facilitate portion control, promote lifestyle changes, and establish healthier eating habits. It is important to note that the balloon's effectiveness depends on individual adherence to dietary and lifestyle recommendations during its placement.

3. 1 Year Adjustable Gastric Baloon (Spatz)

The 1-year adjustable balloon is a type of gastric balloon designed to aid in weight loss over a one-year period. It is a variation of the traditional saline-filled gastric balloon with an additional feature that allows for adjustment during the treatment period. It offers an excellent solution for patients who has high excess weight or believe that they will lose weight in a longer period of time, but do not want to undergo surgery.

Here's how the 1-year adjustable balloon typically works:

1Insertion:
The deflated balloon is typically placed in the stomach using an endoscopic procedure. During this procedure, a thin tube with an attached deflated balloon is passed through the mouth and into the stomach.
2Expansion
Once in position, the balloon is filled with a sterile saline solution to achieve the desired size.
3Adjustment:
The 1-year adjustable balloon has a small filling port or valve connected to the balloon. This port allows for adjustments to be made while the balloon is still inside of the stomach. Throughout the one-year treatment period, the balloon volume can be increased or decreased by adding or removing saline through the filling port. Thus, it becomes easier to reach the desired weight in the long term.
4Removal
At the end of a year, the gastric balloon is removed. The removal procedure is similar to the insertion process and is usually performed through an endoscopic procedure. The deflated balloon is grasped with an endoscope and gently pulled out through the mouth. The 1 Year Adjustable balloon is designed to be a temporary weight loss solution, offering individuals support and motivation during the initial phase of their weight loss journey. It serves as a tool to facilitate portion control, promote lifestyle changes, and establish healthier eating habits. It is important to note that the balloon's effectiveness depends on individual adherence to dietary and lifestyle recommendations during its placement.

What do expect after gastric balloon in Turkey?

  • After the procedure, patient can be discharged directly.
  • The dietitian will provide a special diet program that patient has to follow for couple of weeks.
  • It should not be forgotten that a foreign substance is entering the stomach and there will be an adoptation process. This process may take 1-3 days and can create some discomfort for the patient like cramps and nausea.
  • Medical team will provide some medications to minimize these symptoms.
  • Medical team will also provide some supplements in order for patient to get enough calories.
  • Drinking enough water is highly important on post procedure process.
  • Throughout the retention period, you will have regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress, discuss any concerns, and receive guidance on diet and lifestyle modifications.

What are the benefits of Gastric Balloon in Turkey?

  • Being suitable for most of the patients.
  • Eliminates the need for invasive surgery and its associated risks.
  • Allows discharge on the same day the balloon is inserted.
  • More cost-effective compared to several surgical options.
  • Offers different options for different needs/wishes.
  • Provides temporary support to aid in lifestyle changes. After the balloon is removed, maintaining the same diet and lifestyle can help you continue losing weight.

What are the disadvantages of Gastric Balloon in Turkey?

  • As being not an invasive procedure the amount of weight loss is less compared to other gastric surgeries
  • Since being a temporary procedure, after its extraction if patient would not be careful on its diet, weight regain is possible.
  • Effective for a shorter period of time compare to gastric surgeries.

Which Gastric Balloon is suitable for me?

  • The suitability of a specific gastric balloon for an individual depends on various factors, including their overall health, body mass index (BMI), weight loss goals, medical history, and preferences. The selection of the most suitable gastric balloon is typically determined through a comprehensive evaluation and consultation with a healthcare professional specializing in weight management.

Is it possible to apply Gastric Balloon after Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey?

The application of a gastric balloon after gastric sleeve surgery is neither recommended nor commonly performed.

Here's why:

1Stomach size reduction:
Gastric sleeve surgery, involves the permanent removal of a large portion of the stomach, resulting in a smaller stomach pouch. This procedure is designed to significantly reduce stomach capacity and restrict the amount of food that can be consumed. The goal is to promote weight loss by creating a feeling of fullness with smaller meal portions.
2 Limited space for additional devices:
After gastric sleeve surgery, the remaining stomach is significantly smaller, and there may be limited space available to accommodate a gastric balloon. The stomach pouch created during the sleeve gastrectomy procedure is already small, and inserting a gastric balloon may not be feasible or comfortable for the patient.
3 Potential complications: 
Combining a gastric balloon with gastric sleeve surgery may increase the risk of complications. The presence of a gastric balloon within the stomach after gastric sleeve surgery could potentially cause irritation, obstruction, or discomfort. It may also interfere with the healing process or alter the anatomical changes made during the sleeve gastrectomy.
4Different weight loss mechanisms: 
Gastric sleeve surgery and gastric balloon function through different mechanisms. Gastric sleeve surgery permanently reduces stomach size, while a gastric balloon is a temporary device that aids in weight loss by promoting a feeling of fullness. Combining these two procedures may not provide additional benefits in terms of weight loss and could introduce unnecessary risks. It's important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to discuss your specific situation and weight loss goals. They will assess your individual circumstances, provide personalized recommendations, and guide you on the most suitable treatment options. However, in general, gastric balloon placement after gastric sleeve surgery is not a common practice due to the reasons mentioned above.

How much weight can be lost with Gastric Balloon in Turkey?

  • The amount of weight lost with a gastric balloon can vary widely depending on several factors, including individual characteristics, adherence to dietary and lifestyle changes, and the specific type of gastric balloon used. On average, individuals undergoing gastric balloon treatment can expect to lose around 10% to 30% of their total body weight.
  • It's important to note that the gastric balloon is not a standalone weight loss solution. It is typically part of a comprehensive weight management program that includes dietary modifications, regular exercise, and behavior changes. The balloon is designed to aid in portion control by creating a feeling of fullness and reducing hunger, which can contribute to calorie restriction and weight loss.
  • While results can vary, many individuals experience significant weight loss during the initial six-month period when the gastric balloon is in place. However, it's essential to understand that long-term success depends on maintaining healthy habits and lifestyle changes even after the balloon is removed. The weight loss achieved with the gastric balloon can serve as a jumpstart or motivation for continued progress toward achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
  • It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in weight management and can provide personalized guidance. They will evaluate your specific circumstances, discuss realistic weight loss expectations, and help you develop a comprehensive plan that includes the gastric balloon and supportive measures for long-term success. 

What are the possible side effects of Gastric Balloon in Turkey?

  • Cramps
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue 
  • Over satiety

Its important to mention that these side effects level may show differences on each patient.

You will be guided by the doctors for medication consumption in order to minimize these possible side effects.

How much does Gastric Balloon cost in Turkey?

• Price Range in Turkey: 1.500-3.000 EUR

• Price Range in UK: 4.000-6.000 GBP

• Price Range in US: 7.000-10.000 USD

Why choose Elan to have Gastric Balloon in Turkey?

When you choose Elan for Gastric Balloon procedure, you can expect:

  • Access to renowned and experienced surge ons who specialize in Bariatric procedures.
  • State-of-the-art medical facilities equipped with advanced technology.
  • Personalized assistance with travel arrangements, accommodation, and post-operative care.
  • Affordable and transparent pricing options.
  • A dedicated team committed to ensuring your comfort, safety, and satisfaction.

Quick facts of Gastric Balloon in Turkey

  • Procedure: Depending on the option, through endoscopy or through swallowing the deflated balloon or capsule is inflated in the stomach after making sure of its position in the stomach.
  • Duration: 15 to 30 min
  • Stay: 2 Nights Hotel Accomodation.
  • Anesthesia: Sedetaion or No anesthesia depending on the option.
  • Recovery: Immidiate discharge, 2-3 days after, ready to go daily routine.
  • Clothes to Wear: Comfortable clothes (sweatshirts, button-down or zipped shirt etc.)
  • Side Effects: Nausea, Gas, Fatigue, Dehydration, Cramps
  • Exercise: After 1-2 weeks
  • Scars: No
  • Pain: No
  • Results: Average of 15-20 kg of weight loss
  • Combined Procedures : Hair Transplant,Plastic Surgeries (Few days apart),Dental Treatments