Disappointing, Painful, and Misleading Bariatric Balloon Experience

I underwent a Bariatric Balloon procedure on 08/13/2025, and unfortunately, it was one of the worst medical experiences I’ve ever had. From the moment I woke up, I felt horrible—severe stomach pain, nausea, shaking, and chills. Initially, I thought it was from the anesthesia, but once I got home, things only worsened. I began vomiting uncontrollably, and immediately asked my wife to call the doctor. We returned to Dr. Batash’s office the same day requesting removal, but were told the anesthesiologist had already gone home. Instead, I was kept for several additional hours, given fluids and pain medication, and strongly encouraged to keep the balloon in. I was told my body simply needed time to adjust. Reluctantly, I agreed—but that was the worst decision I could have made.

The balloon did not agree with my body, but I was repeatedly told this was normal. For the entire time it was in place, I was miserable—I could barely eat, could only tolerate fluids, suffered from severe acid reflux, constant bloating, and could not comfortably lie on my back or right side. Eventually, I requested removal, but was given the runaround until I insisted on showing up in person. Only then did I learn that Dr. Batash was not even in Florida, but at his New York office. After multiple delays, the balloon was finally removed on 09/01/2025.

Once removed, Dr. Batash told me I had a lot of food stuck at the top of my stomach, even though I had been on a 3-day clear liquid diet prior to removal. This explains why I had been vomiting uncontrollably—the small amount of solid food I consumed simply could not pass through.

What frustrates me most is the lack of transparency. During the consultation, it was never disclosed that the program expects patients to take phentermine and/or Ozempic in addition to the balloon. Coming to Dr. Batash, I wanted a more permanent solution, not to be dependent on additional medications and their side effects. If I had known this, I never would have gone through with the procedure. In my opinion, the balloon is meant for portion control, while phentermine suppresses appetite—but comes with side effects and significant weight regain once you stop. Having used phentermine before, I refused it. After removal, I was then encouraged to start Ozempic, which I also declined.

In addition to the physical suffering, I feel I wasted thousands of dollars and weeks of my time, and overall, I feel like I was misled, misinformed, and even scammed. Because of this, I am requesting a full refund.

For anyone considering this procedure: ask very clearly about all medications, side effects, and the full treatment plan before you commit. Don’t assume the balloon is the only part of the program. Make sure you understand exactly what you’re signing up for, so you don’t end up in the same situation I did—losing time, money, and peace of mind, while experiencing unnecessary pain.