Weight loss means reducing your body weight, mainly by losing body fat and sometimes muscle. People do this to become healthier, look better, or feel better overall. Successful weight loss usually involves making changes to what you eat, doing more physical activity, and sometimes getting medical help. For example, gastric balloons are a non-surgical way to help people feel full sooner, so they eat less. This helps them control how much they eat and start losing weight. Using a gastric balloon can kickstart healthier eating and lifestyle habits, which can lead to keeping off weight and feeling better for the long term.
What is the Allurion Gastric Balloon?
The Allurion Gastric Balloon is a way to lose weight without surgery. You swallow a deflated balloon in a small capsule. Once it’s in your stomach, it’s filled with saline (a saltwater solution). This makes you feel full, so you eat less and lose weight. The balloon stays in your stomach for about 16 weeks. After that, it deflates and passes out of your body naturally. The Allurion Balloon is used with advice on what to eat and changes to your lifestyle to help you keep the weight off and improve your health in the long run.
Benefits of the Allurion Gastric Balloon
Non-Invasive and Swallowable Technology: The Allurion balloon is unique as it is swallowed rather than placed through endoscopy, eliminating the need for surgical procedures, anesthesia, or sedation.
Self-Deflating and Natural Passage: After approximately four months, the Allurion balloon naturally deflates and passes out of the body through the digestive system, requiring no additional removal procedure.
Proven Safety and Effectiveness: Clinical studies confirm the Allurion balloon’s safety, effectiveness, and high patient tolerance. It consistently results in an average weight loss of around 28 pounds (12.7 kg) and improves health conditions associated with obesity.
High Worth It Rating: Allurion receives a notably higher satisfaction rating compared to other gastric balloons, including the sole FDA-Approved swallowable balloon in the U.S. (Obalon).
Minimal Recovery and Discomfort: Recovery typically involves only about a week of downtime, with manageable initial discomfort such as mild cramping, nausea, or heartburn.
Ideal for Less Invasive Weight Loss Solutions: It is particularly suitable for individuals seeking non-surgical weight loss options or those ineligible for bariatric surgery.
Who is a suitable Candidate?
BMI Criteria:
- Recommended for individuals with a BMI of 30 to 40, indicating obesity or moderate overweight.
- May also be considered for mildly overweight individuals who haven’t achieved significant weight loss through conventional methods.
Previous Weight Loss Attempts:
- Suitable for those who have struggled to lose weight with diet and exercise alone.
- Offers an option when other weight loss methods have not produced desired results.
Non-Surgical Preference:
- Ideal for individuals preferring non-surgical weight loss options.
- Provides a temporary and reversible alternative to invasive surgical procedures.
Medical Considerations:
- Candidates should not have a history of gastrointestinal surgeries.
- Presence of severe acid reflux or other complicating medical conditions should be assessed before considering a gastric balloon.
Pre-Procedure Preparation
Medical evaluation and Acid Reduction:
- Undergo necessary test and evaluations to ensure you’re a good candidate.
- Start taking a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) one week before the procedure.
- PPIs reduce stomach acid, creating a better environment for placing the balloon.
- Continue the PPI for the duration the balloon remains in your stomach.
Dietary guidelines:
- Adhere to a clear liquid diet before the procedure.
- This empties the stomach, ensuring clearer visibility during placement.
- Or you can have normal low-calorie, high protein diet to prepare your stomach.
Consultation and Informed Consent:
- Your healthcare provider Hindivine Healthcare team will discuss the procedure, its benefits, risks, and alternatives.
- You’ll provide informed consent before proceeding with the gastric balloon implantation.
The Allurion Gastric Balloon procedure
The entire process takes less than 20 minutes.
Capsule Ingestion:
● Begin by swallowing a capsule that contains the deflated balloon.
● This capsule is connected to a thin tube.
X-Ray Verification:
● An initial X-ray is conducted to confirm the correct placement of the capsule in your stomach.
Balloon Inflation:
● The doctor uses a catheter to fill the balloon with about 550 ml of water.
Another X-ray confirmation
● Another X-ray is conducted to confirm that balloon is placed correctly and in the desired position.
Thread removal
● Once the balloon is positioned and inflation is verified, the thread used during insertion is carefully taken out.
Immediate Post Procedure Care
- After the gastric balloon placement, you’ll have a short recovery period.
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities.
- Monitor for any signs of nausea or discomfort.
- Mild discomfort and nausea are common but usually subside within a few days.
Dietary guidelines after the procedure
Liquid Diet Immediately After Procedure:
- For the first few days after the procedure, you’ll likely be on a clear liquid diet. This includes broth, clear soups, sugar-free gelatin, and clear juices.
Progression to Pureed and Soft Foods:
- As you tolerate liquids, you will gradually progress to pureed foods and then soft foods. This might include yogurt, pureed vegetables, and mashed fruits.
Avoid Carbonated Drinks and Sugary Beverages:
- Carbonated drinks can cause discomfort due to gas build-up, and sugary beverages can lead to dumping syndrome in some cases.
Portion Control:
- Even after transitioning to solid foods, it’s crucial to practice portion control. Eating small meals throughout the day can help manage hunger and prevent stretching the stomach.
Protein-Rich Diet:
- Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and promoting satiety. Include lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, and plant-based protein sources in your diet.
Hydration:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Avoid drinking liquids with meals to prevent discomfort and to maximize nutrient absorption.
Fiber Intake:
- Gradually reintroduce fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to prevent constipation.
Vitamins and Supplements:
- Depending on your nutritional needs and the advice of your healthcare provider, you may need to take vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent deficiencies.
Physical Activity:
- Engage in regular physical activity as recommended by your healthcare provider. Exercise helps in weight management and overall health.
Follow-Up Care:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with Hindivine healthcare team. They can monitor your progress, adjust your diet as needed, and provide support.
Potential side effects and Complications
Common Issues: Nausea, Vomiting, and abdominal discomfort are common during the initial days post-procedure.
Digestive Concerns: Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) symptoms like heartburn may worsen, and there’s a risk of stomach ulcers or irritation.
When to seek help: After a gastric balloon procedure, promptly seek medical assistance if you have severe and persistent abdominal pain, ongoing nausea or vomiting that disrupts eating or drinking, signs of infection such as fever or swelling around the balloon site, breathing difficulties or chest pain, unexplained weight gain or swelling, worsening heartburn or acid reflux, persistent diarrhea or constipation with discomfort, significant emotional distress, concerns about the balloon’s condition or position, or any other unusual symptoms that cause worry. Seeking early medical attention can help manage potential complications and ensure your recovery progresses smoothly.
Follow up and Monitoring
Regular follow-up appointments after a gastric balloon procedure are essential for monitoring weight loss progress, nutritional health, and overall well-being. During these visits, healthcare providers Hindivine Healthcare Team will adjust your treatment plan by modifying diet, exercise routines, and medications as necessary. They will also address any side effects or complications you may encounter, offering support and guidance on lifestyle changes including diet and exercise. Additionally, plans for the safe removal of the balloon will be discussed at the appropriate time. Attending all scheduled appointments and openly communicating any concerns ensures the procedure’s effectiveness and your safety throughout your weight loss journey.
Success stories and testimonials
Real life Experiences: Many people have effectively shed weight and enhanced their health using the Allurion gastric balloon.
Motivational Stories: Stay inspired and dedicated to your weight loss journey by reading testimonials from others who have achieved success.
FAQs About the Allurion Gastric Balloon
Q: How much weight should I expect to lose?
A: The weight loss you can achieve with a gastric balloon varies based on factors like your starting weight, adherence to diet and exercise plans, and individual metabolic differences. Typically, people lose around 10% to 15% of their total body weight during the usual six-month period the balloon remains in place.
Q: Is the procedure painful?
A: The procedure for inserting a gastric balloon may cause discomfort, which varies among individuals. Anesthesia is typically used to minimize pain during insertion. Afterward, any discomfort can usually be managed with medications prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Q: How long does the balloon stay in the stomach?
A: Balloons placed in the stomach for weight loss are typically removed after a few months. The exact duration can vary depending on the type of balloon used, but generally, it ranges from 4 to 6 months.
Q: What happens if the balloon deflates prematurely?
A: If a gastric balloon deflates prematurely, it poses several concerns. Firstly, its effectiveness in aiding weight loss diminishes as it no longer provides the intended restriction on food intake and satiety. Secondly, there is a risk of complications such as discomfort, obstruction, or migration within the stomach or intestines. Immediate medical attention is necessary to assess the situation and determine the appropriate steps.
Q: Can I exercise with the Gastric Balloon?
A: You can engage in exercise while using a gastric balloon, which is beneficial for overall health and supporting weight loss efforts. Before starting any exercise routine, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance based on your medical condition and specific balloon type. Focus on low-impact activities like walking or swimming initially, gradually increasing intensity as tolerated.
Q: Will my insurance cover the cost of the procedure?
A: Insurance coverage for the allurion balloon varies. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.
Q: Are there any dietary restrictions while the balloon is in place?
A: During the time a gastric balloon is in place, adhering to specific dietary guidelines is important for optimizing its effectiveness and ensuring safety. These guidelines typically include eating smaller, nutritious meals that accommodate the space occupied by the balloon. Emphasis is placed on consuming fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while avoiding high-calorie, high-fat, or sugary foods that can hinder weight loss. Staying hydrated with plenty of water is also recommended.
Q: What happens after the balloon is removed?
A: After the gastric balloon is removed, individuals typically experience a transition period where they gradually reintroduce solid foods and adjust to eating without the balloon’s restriction. Many continue to lose weight as they maintain healthy eating habits and regular exercise.
Conclusion
The weight loss journey with a gastric balloon begins with initial weight reduction achieved through the balloon’s mechanical restriction of stomach volume, which promotes early feelings of fullness and lowers calorie intake. This phase is enhanced by adjustments in diet and increased physical activity, leading to significant initial weight loss.
After the balloon is removed, individuals transition to a solid food diet while maintaining controlled portions and healthy eating habits. Continued weight loss often persists as these habits become integrated into daily life, supported by ongoing medical guidance and lifestyle adjustments.
The gastric balloon acts as a temporary aid to initiate and reinforce behaviors essential for long-term weight management. Its effectiveness lies in jumpstarting initial weight loss and encouraging the adoption of sustainable lifestyle changes crucial for overall health and maintaining a healthy weight.
