Thanks for the question. The balloon is removed with an endoscopy procedure. You will be given sedation and a special cathether is used to remove the fluid in the balloon to decompress it. Following this it is retrieved with a special device. The whole procedure takes 10 minutes or so and you go home the same day.
Thank-you for the question. I would say that if you are not interested in any surgical procedures such as lapband or sleeve gastrectomy, then the Orbera Balloon would be a reasonable option. That being said, it is important to recognize that it is a tool to help kick start your weight loss journey and it must be removed at 6 months. In addition, weight loss require lifestyle change and increased physicial activity. Ensure that your balloon clinic provides good follow-up care. In my opinion, if you are not interested in surgery the Orbera Balloon is a reasonable option to help you acheive a healthy weight.
I would recommend after your first balloon is removed, to wait at least two months to see if your weight loss maintains or even continues. Furthermore, this gives time for you stomach to recover prior to insertion of a second balloon.
Yes, there is a diet to follow after the Orbera Gastric Balloon is placed. This is reviewed in detail prior to your procedure with the physician and dietician. In addition, prior to band removal certain dietary restriction are placed a few days before the balloon is removed to minimize any complications.
The Orbera Gastric Balloon must be removed at 6 months. The integrity of the balloon can potentially be compromised at this point in time. This can lead to leakage and balloon migration causing a blockage in your intestine. In addition, after 6 months there is potential for the wall of your stomach to be damaged.
