Is it safe to do Obalon 5 years after gastric sleeve?

Question

Hello! I did the sleeve surgery almost 5 years ago and lost about 25 kilos. Last year I started gaining weight although I eat well and I exercise. I was wondering if it is safe for me to do the obalon procedure and whether you think it'll help? Many thanks

Ziyad Hammoudeh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Unfortunately, the Obalon intragastric balloon for weight loss is contraindicated after bariatric surgery due to the altered anatomy of the stomach.
Ziyad Hammoudeh, MD

Edgar Serrano, MD · Answer

No, the gastric balloon is not recommended for people who have had gastric sleeve surgery. The gastric sleeve is a type of bariatric surgery that involves removing a large portion of the stomach. This surgery can cause changes to the anatomy of the stomach, which can make it difficult or impossible to safely place a gastric balloon.
In addition, the gastric balloon is not as effective for weight loss in people who have had gastric sleeve surgery. This is because the gastric sleeve has already reduced the amount of food that can be eaten. The gastric balloon is primarily designed to help people with obesity lose weight by reducing the amount of food that can be eaten. However, since the gastric sleeve has already performed this function, the additional restriction provided by the gastric balloon is not as effective.
If you are considering weight loss surgery, it is important to talk to your doctor about your options. They will be able to assess your individual circumstances and recommend the best surgery for you.
Here are some of the reasons why the gastric balloon is not recommended for people who have had gastric sleeve surgery:
The gastric balloon can interfere with the healing of the gastric sleeve incision.The gastric balloon can cause the gastric sleeve to stretch or tear.The gastric balloon can cause discomfort or pain in people who have had gastric sleeve surgery.If you have any questions about the gastric balloon or other weight loss surgery options, please talk to your doctor.

Elysa Fisher, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The Obalon procedure is very effective in assisting with weight loss.  Unfortunately, previous bariatric procedures are absolute contraindications to Obalon.

Christopher E. McGowan, MD · Answer

While Obalon is an extremely safe weight loss option, it is contraindicated if you have had prior stomach surgery, including weight loss surgery (bypass or sleeve), lap band, or hiatal hernia repair. These operations would potentially increase the risk of a complication occurring while the balloons are in place.

Angelina Postoev, MD, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

Unfortunately the Obalon balloon can’t be used if you had previously gastric sleeve surgery. A better choice would be Transoral Outlet Revision with Overstitch.
Good luck.

Is it safe to do Obalon 5 years after gastric sleeve?

Answers (6)