Intragastric Balloon Procedure

An intragastric (also called gastric or stomach) balloon placement is a non-surgical weight loss procedure that offers built-in portion control for more effective weight loss. It is a great option for those who struggle with traditional dieting and exercise programs and can deliver twice the weight loss. The gastric balloon typically remains in the stomach for six months but can be reversed sooner. During this six-month period, patients receive in-office progress tracking, diet and coaching sessions.

Why Choose Intragastric Balloon Procedures?

Intragastric balloon placement might be your next step if you have a BMI between 30 to 40 and no previous stomach or esophageal surgery. If you need an option beyond medication but not as intense as surgery, an endoscopic balloon is exactly that. It’s more affordable than surgery, it’s temporary, and available to more patients than may be eligible for other weight loss surgery.

The ORBERA™ Gastric Balloon

The Bariatric Weight Loss Center at Northeast Georgia Medical Center offers ORBERA™, a safe and effective non-surgical solution for weight loss. It is a single, deflated balloon inserted through the mouth to be expanded in the stomach. The ORBERA™ balloon has the most research supporting its results. It is a global leader for gastric balloon procedures and is a proven option to maximize weight loss outcomes.  

How Gastric Balloon Procedures Improve Health Issues

Weight loss is the primary goal of an intragastric balloon, and losing weight can help improve patient’s overall health by lowering your risk for weight-related health conditions including:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
  • Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Heart disease or stroke
  • Osteoporosis

What To Expect with the Intragastric Balloon Procedure?

Gastric balloon placement is an outpatient procedure. During the procedure, you will be sedated and unaware while the doctor advances a catheter from your throat into your stomach. They will follow this thin tube with an endoscope to monitor your balloon and then inflate the balloon with saline which will occupy space in the stomach making patients fuller sooner with a smaller amount of food aiding in weight loss. This procedure lasts approximately half an hour, and you’re able to go home following a few hours of recovery time. You will be able to drink sooner after surgery and slowly return to regular food.

Your intragastric balloon will be endoscopically removed after six months. Before and after the procedure, you will stay in close contact with various members of your medical team who will provide support and guidance to you whenever needed.

Why NGMC?

The board-certified Bariatric specialists at NGMC have knowledge and experience in using evidence-based medicine to help people lose weight and keep it off. Patients can be screened for both surgical and non-surgical weight loss options, with the goal of creating a customized plan while maximizing weight loss outcomes and improving their overall health.

Begin Your Journey Today

There are three ways to get started:

  1. Watch our patient education video to learn about the options offered at NGMC.

  2. Connect with us using our short online form.

  3. Call 770-219-0446 to speak with a member of our team.