Gastric Balloon: Procedure, Benefits, Requirements

A gastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical weight-loss treatment designed to help patients eat smaller portions, reduce hunger, and build healthier eating habits without undergoing surgery. The procedure involves placing a soft silicone or polymer balloon inside the stomach, either endoscopically or by swallowing a capsule, where it is then inflated with saline or gas to create a feeling of fullness. Because it occupies space in the stomach, the balloon naturally slows eating, encourages mindful habits, and supports a structured transition into long-term weight management.

Most gastric balloons stay in place for 4 to 12 months, depending on the brand, during which patients lose 10–20% of their total body weight (not excess weight) when combined with nutritional guidance. Unlike bariatric surgeries, a gastric balloon does not involve incisions, anatomical changes, or malabsorption, making it an ideal option for individuals seeking a reversible, low-risk, and step-by-step approach to weight loss.

A gastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical weight-loss treatment designed to help patients reduce their food intake and develop healthier eating habits. Unlike bariatric surgeries, it does not require incisions, stitches, or permanent anatomical changes. Instead, a soft silicone or polymer balloon is placed inside the stomach and then filled with either saline or gas, creating a sense of fullness with smaller portions.

Gastric balloons are available in two main forms: endoscopic balloons, which are inserted and removed using an endoscope, and swallowable balloons, which are taken as a capsule and self-inflate once inside the stomach.

Because the device occupies space in the stomach, patients naturally eat less and slow down their eating pace, two key behaviors that support long-term weight management.

Most gastric balloons remain in the stomach for 6 to 12 months, depending on the brand. Common examples include Orbera (6 months), Spatz3 (12 months and adjustable), and Allurion (4 months, swallowable). Once the balloon is removed or naturally deflates (in the case of swallowable options), patients are expected to maintain their results through continued lifestyle modifications.

A gastric balloon works by taking up space inside the stomach, which helps patients feel full sooner, eat smaller portions, and reduce overall calorie intake. Unlike bariatric surgeries, it does not change anatomy, does not affect nutrient absorption, and does not involve cutting or stapling. Its primary mechanism is volume restriction, which naturally slows down eating and promotes mindful habits.

The balloon remains inside the stomach for several months, giving patients enough time to build sustainable dietary routines and adjust their relationship with food. Although the effect is milder than surgical options, it provides a structured, step-by-step pathway into weight loss, especially for individuals who are not ready for or not eligible for bariatric surgery.

Yes, but only mildly. A gastric balloon can cause small hormonal changes. A modest decrease in ghrelin, the hormone responsible for hunger, and a slight increase in GLP-1, which improves satiety and early glucose control

However, these changes are much weaker than those seen after gastric sleeve or gastric bypass, since the balloon does not remove stomach tissue or reroute intestines. Its primary effect remains restrictive, not metabolic.

No, it does not affect nutrient absorption. A gastric balloon only occupies stomach space; it does not alter the digestive tract. This means that the food is digested normally, vitamins and minerals are absorbed normally, and patients do not require lifelong supplementation.

Any supplements recommended during the balloon period are for comfort and support, not due to malabsorption, unlike gastric bypass. 

The steps of the gastric balloon placement depend on whether the patient chooses an endoscopic balloon (such as Orbera or Spatz) or a swallowable balloon (such as Allurion). Both methods are quick, outpatient procedures, but the process differs slightly in preparation and placement.

Endoscopic Gastric Balloon Placement (Orbera, Spatz)

This is the most widely performed method worldwide. It requires a short endoscopy but no incisions and usually takes 15–20 minutes.

1. Sedation: Patients receive light sedation similar to a gastroscopy. They remain comfortable and do not feel the insertion.
2. Endoscopic Insertion: A thin endoscope is guided into the stomach, and the deflated balloon is placed safely inside.
3. Balloon Inflation: Once positioned, the balloon is filled with saline (usually 400–700 ml). A blue dye is often added so the patient can detect rare leaks through urine discoloration.
4. Observation: After the procedure, patients stay in the clinic for 1–2 hours for monitoring before being discharged.

Swallowable Gastric Balloon Placement (Allurion Balloon)

This method is completely non-endoscopic and does not require sedation. Placement takes about 10–15 minutes.

1. Swallowing the Capsule: The balloon is contained inside a small capsule attached to a thin tube. The patient swallows it with water while a specialist guides the process.
2. X-Ray Confirmation: An X-ray ensures the capsule has reached the stomach.
3. Balloon Inflation: Through the thin tube, the balloon is filled with nitrogen gas. Once filled, the tube is gently removed.
4. Natural Disintegration: After approximately 4 months, the balloon’s valve opens automatically, it deflates, and the empty shell passes naturally through the digestive system.

A gastric balloon is fully reversible because it does not alter the stomach permanently. All endoscopic balloons can be safely removed at the end of their intended lifespan. The lifespan is 6 months for standard models and up to 12 months for adjustable balloons. Removal is performed endoscopically under light sedation, where the balloon is deflated and retrieved through the mouth.

Swallowable balloons such as the Allurion Elipse are an exception. They naturally deflate after about four months and pass through the digestive system without the need for endoscopic removal.

Removal is done with a short endoscopic procedure under mild sedation. The clinician inserts an endoscope into the stomach, punctures the balloon, aspirates its contents, and gently extracts the deflated shell through the esophagus. The entire process takes 10–20 minutes, and patients can go home the same day.

On average, patients lose 20–30% of their excess weight (EWL) within 6–12 months. Some achieve even higher results when combining the balloon with structured nutritional coaching and exercise.

Because the balloon is temporary and restrictive only, the total weight loss depends heavily on lifestyle changes, diet quality, and follow-up support.

Weight loss also varies depending on balloon type (Allurion deflates at 4 months; Orbera stays 6 months; Spatz is adjustable and stays up to 12 months), eating behavior and portion control, metabolic profile, and physical activity levels.

A gastric balloon offers several important advantages for individuals seeking a non-surgical, temporary, and structured approach to weight loss. 

• Non-surgical: A gastric balloon requires no incisions, stitches, or permanent anatomical changes, making it one of the least invasive weight-loss options.
• Quick procedure: Placement takes only 10–20 minutes, and patients can return home the same day.
• Temporary: The balloon stays in the stomach for 4–12 months, allowing weight loss without long-term anatomical alteration.
• Ideal for patients not ready for surgery: It is a suitable option for individuals who want support with weight loss but do not meet, or prefer not to undergo, the requirements of bariatric surgery.
• Helps jump-start weight loss: By promoting early fullness and portion control, the balloon helps patients lose weight rapidly in the first months.
• Improves early metabolic markers: Many patients see improvements in blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure, and liver health during treatment.

On average, gastric balloon procedures cost €2,000–€4,500 depending on the balloon brand, clinic, and country. Prices vary widely across regions due to differences in healthcare costs, technology, and package inclusions.

Country	Price Range (€)
USA	€6,000–€10,000
UK	€3,500–€7,000
Europe (General EU Range)	€3,000–€6,000
Turkey	€1,800–€3,500
Thailand	€2,500–€4,500
India	€1,600–€3,000

Prices may differ based on balloon type (Orbera, Allurion, Spatz), whether endoscopy is required, and the level of follow-up support included.

A gastric balloon is ideal for individuals who need a non-surgical, temporary, and structured weight-loss solution. It works best for patients who want to lose weight but are not ready or not eligible for bariatric surgery.

• BMI 27–40: Suitable for patients who are overweight or moderately obese but do not qualify for bariatric surgery.
• Failed Previous Diet Attempts: Good for individuals who have tried diet and exercise programs without long-term success.
• Not Ready for Surgery: Ideal for patients who want a reversible, incision-free option before considering bariatric procedures.
• Emotional & Behavioral Readiness: Patients who can follow a structured diet and lifestyle program during and after balloon placement.
• Short-Term Weight Loss Goals: Useful for individuals preparing for orthopedic surgery, fertility treatment, or other medical procedures requiring weight reduction.

Not everyone can safely receive a gastric balloon; certain medical or anatomical conditions make the procedure unsuitable or risky.

• Severe GERD: Uncontrolled acid reflux can worsen with balloon placement.
• Previous Bariatric Surgery: Altered anatomy may prevent safe balloon insertion.
• GI Ulcers: Active stomach or duodenal ulcers can increase the risk of complications.
• Pregnancy: Balloon placement and medications are not recommended during pregnancy.
• Eating Disorders: Conditions such as bulimia or binge-eating disorder require specialized treatment, not a gastric balloon.
• Significant Hiatal Hernia: Large hernias may interfere with balloon positioning and increase discomfort.

Although gastric balloon complications are rare, it is important for patients to understand the potential risks associated with having a device inside the stomach for several months. Most issues are manageable when detected early and monitored by a bariatric specialist.

• Balloon Deflation: A balloon may lose volume prematurely; blue dye in saline-filled balloons helps patients detect leaks quickly.
• Migration: If a deflated balloon moves into the intestines, it can cause discomfort or blockage and may require removal.
• Pancreatitis: Very rarely, pressure from the balloon can irritate nearby organs such as the pancreas.
• Intestinal Obstruction: An improperly positioned or migrated balloon can block the intestinal tract, requiring urgent medical attention.

Most gastric balloon side effects occur during the first few days as the stomach adjusts to the device. These reactions are expected, temporary, and typically improve within a week with proper medication and hydration.

• Nausea: The stomach reacts to the new device by increasing muscular contractions, often causing nausea.
• Vomiting: Common during the adjustment period; anti-nausea medications help reduce frequency.
• Cramps: Stomach spasms may occur as the body adapts to the balloon’s presence.
• Acid Reflux: Increased pressure inside the stomach can trigger heartburn, usually controlled with acid-reducing medications.
• Bloating: A feeling of fullness or pressure is normal and decreases after the first week.

Recovery after a gastric balloon is quick compared to surgical procedures, but the body still needs several days to adapt to the device. 

Most discomfort, such as nausea, cramps, or reflux, occurs during the first 24–72 hours and gradually improves as the stomach adjusts. 

Patients return to normal daily activities within a few days and follow a structured diet progression over the next weeks. Full adaptation usually occurs within 1–2 weeks.

Most patients notice a significant reduction in appetite, especially in the early weeks. However, hunger patterns change over time as the body adapts to smaller portions and slower eating habits.

The purpose of a gastric balloon is to occupy space for a satiety feeling. This will directly help patients to eat less and more slowly and thus change their eating habits.

A mild increase in hunger can occur after several months as the stomach gets used to the balloon, but portion control and dietary habits continue to play the main role.

The gastric balloon diet is designed to help the stomach adapt, minimize nausea, and support steady weight loss. It progresses through four structured phases, each focusing on gentle digestion, portion control, and gradual reintroduction of textured foods. Most patients move through these stages over 2–6 weeks, depending on comfort and clinical guidance.

Liquid Phase (Days 1–5)

Patients begin with clear and full liquids to allow the stomach to calm after balloon placement.

Recommended foods are: water, broth, herbal teas, electrolyte drinks, protein shakes, and thin soups.

Pureed Phase (Days 5–14)

Smooth, blended foods are introduced once nausea and cramps settle.

Recommended foods are: yogurt, blended vegetables, pureed soups, mashed potatoes, and soft scrambled eggs.

Soft Foods Phase (Weeks 2–4)

Soft, easy-to-chew foods help transition toward more regular eating.

Recommended foods are: soft fish, minced chicken, steamed vegetables, oatmeal, cottage cheese, and ripe fruits.

Regular Healthy Diet (Week 4 and onwards)

Patients gradually return to a balanced, solid-food diet focusing on lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and controlled portions.

Recommended foods are: spicy, greasy, carbonated, and high-sugar foods should still be limited to avoid discomfort.

A gastric balloon differs from bariatric surgeries in several essential ways, starting with how they work. A balloon is a restrictive-only treatment, meaning it reduces stomach capacity but does not alter hormones, anatomy, or nutrient absorption. In contrast, procedures like gastric sleeve and gastric bypass combine restriction with significant hormonal effects, leading to stronger appetite suppression, metabolic improvements, and diabetes remission.

A gastric balloon is temporary, staying in place for 4 to 12 months depending on the brand, while bariatric surgeries are permanent anatomical changes designed for lifelong results. This difference also impacts expected outcomes: balloons typically lead to 10–20% total body weight loss, while bariatric surgeries offer 25–35% or more, making them more effective for patients with higher BMI ranges.

Gastric balloons carry a lower overall risk, while bariatric surgeries, while safe when performed by experts, involve surgical risks, potential long-term complications, and the need for lifelong vitamin supplementation in some cases.