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Gastric Balloon

What Is Gastric Balloon?

An intragastric balloon is an endoscopic procedure, so not a surgical procedure but still requiring an anaesthetic and short admission to hospital.
Under a light anaesthetic, the balloon is placed through a patient’s mouth into their stomach using a flexible endoscope and inflated to fill up the mid-part of the stomach, in the same way a large meal would fill it. The device is left in place for up to six (and sometimes 12) months.
We've learnt a lot about what works and what doesn't and we've got a real feel for how the different procedures work long-term.

Am I a Candidate for a Gastric Balloon?

This gastric balloon procedure is ideal for people who:

  • are perhaps not heavy enough to be considered for regular bariatric surgery
  • are heavy enough to undergo regular bariatric surgery but do not wish to commit to something permanent.
  • need to lose weight quickly for medical reasons (such as for a joint replacement) but find it hard to do so.
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How Gastric Balloon Causes Weight Loss

Very similar to a gastric band, it is designed to slow you down when eating and suppress your appetite so you can stop eating after a very small amount of food.
e balloon itself does not make you lose weight – you have to make the choice to stop eating on your own, the gastric balloon causes weight loss by suppressing appetite and causing fullness after a few mouthfuls of food.

Effectiveness Of Balloon In Causing Weight Loss

Because the balloon is removed after six months, its effect is not permanent.
It is hoped that the intensive retraining that occurs after balloon placement can help the patient keep weight off in the long term. Of the patients who undergo this treatment, 25% will maintain their weight loss.

Advantages of Gastric Balloon

  • Very low risk of long-term complications.
  • Rapid initial weight loss for most patients.

Drawbacks of Gastric Balloon

  • Between 2 – 5% of people do not tolerate the balloon and need to have it removed before it has had any useful effect.
  • Nausea is common for the first few days.
  • Average weight loss (10-20 kg) is less than that achieved through surgery, and the risk of weight gain is high unless significant lifestyle changes can be maintained after balloon removal. More than 75% of people will regain weight by 2 years post-procedure. Heavier people can find it especially hard to maintain weight loss after the balloon has been removed.

Do you know this procedure can be performed using a surgical robot ?

This advanced technology allows surgeons to operate with enhanced precision and visualisation.
Learn more about robotic surgery

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Why Choose Upper GI Surgery?

12 Months of Follow-up Appointments
Our patients benefit from having access to follow-up appointments with a Bariatric Specialist for the year after surgery, which is included in the clinic fee.
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Over 25 Years of Experience
Our Bariatric surgery expertise is second to none. We have Australian-leading experience in many procedures, including the less commonly performed complex revision and robotic surgery.
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Our Dedicated Support Team
Our welcoming and committed team is comprised of Nurses, Dietitian and Psychologist, as well as Admin support staff, making sure you are in the best hands for the duration of your treatment and the crucial aftercare period.
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Ongoing Care Program (OCP)
Our Ongoing Care Program provides continuous support, offering access to helpful resources and expert guidance to ensure you stay on track and achieve lasting success in your weight loss journey.
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Bariatric Centre of Excellence
Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) accreditation is achieved by providing the highest quality of care to patients as determined by an independent, external process of evaluation.
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Bariatric Surgery Registry (BSR) Leading Contributors
We have contributed data since the BSR was first available in NSW and are pleased to report that our audit results are excellent. Audit is part of the “quality mindset” driving us towards excellence.
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Ready to take the next step?

If obesity is affecting your quality of life, book a consultation to discuss targeted testing and a treatment plan tailored to your symptoms and goals.

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Upper GI Surgery
Suite 3 Level 5 1 South St,
Kogarah NSW 2217

P: 02 9553 1120
F: 02 9553 7526
E: info@uppergisurgery.com.au

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