This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

What is a weight loss balloon?

A weight loss balloon, sometimes called an intragastric balloon, is a soft silicone device placed into the stomach through the mouth using an endoscopic technique. Once positioned, the balloon is filled with saline or air to reduce available stomach volume. The reduced space can promote earlier satiety during meals, which may help lower calorie intake. Typical placement periods range from several months up to a year depending on the device type and clinical plan.

How a gastric balloon works in the stomach

The gastric balloon sits in the stomach and takes up space that would otherwise be available for food. This physical presence can slow gastric emptying and increase the feeling of fullness. When combined with structured nutritional guidance, many patients find they eat smaller portions and adopt more mindful eating habits. The mechanism is mechanical rather than metabolic; it supports behavior change rather than altering hormones permanently.

Who may be suitable: obesity and candidate criteria

Gastric balloons are generally considered for adults with obesity who have a body mass index (BMI) typically in a range specified by providers (for example, moderate obesity or those who do not qualify or prefer to avoid bariatric surgery). They may also be offered to people who need preoperative weight loss before other procedures. Suitability depends on medical history, digestive tract anatomy, prior surgeries, and the ability to participate in follow-up care. A thorough assessment by a qualified clinician is essential to determine if the procedure is appropriate.

Risks and recovery of the medical procedure

Although the placement is minimally invasive, the medical procedure carries risks. Common, usually temporary side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and reflux during the first days to weeks after placement. More serious but less frequent complications can include balloon deflation, obstruction, or gastric ulceration, and these require prompt medical attention. Removal is also performed endoscopically and typically takes place after the approved treatment period. Recovery involves short-term monitoring and adherence to dietary progression from liquids to solids as recommended by the care team.

Lifestyle changes and expected outcomes after balloon

The gastric balloon is an adjunct to — not a substitute for — comprehensive lifestyle changes. Best outcomes occur when patients engage in structured dietary counseling, physical activity, and behavioral support during and after the treatment period. Clinically observed weight loss varies by individual, device type, and program intensity; some people achieve significant short-term reductions, but maintaining those losses requires ongoing effort. Long-term success is associated with sustained changes in eating patterns, activity, and follow-up care.

Conclusion

The weight loss balloon is a temporary, minimally invasive tool intended to support calorie reduction and behavior change in people with obesity when used alongside professional support. It can help create initial momentum for weight loss, but it requires careful patient selection, awareness of potential risks, and commitment to lifestyle changes for lasting results. For personalized assessment and to explore options that are appropriate in your area, consult a qualified healthcare professional.