Intragastric balloon

How it works :   The intragastric balloon restricts the stomach capacity enabling you to lose weight while establishing a healthy relationship with food.
Suitable for:   Patients with a weight problem wanting an intense period of fast weight loss before returning to sensible eating habits

Patients with a bmi of 27-40
Cost:   From £4500
Pre-op treatment:   Initial consultation with bariatric consultant surgeon
Pre-assessment by Registered Dietician and Specialist Nurse
If appropriate, additional appointment with Clinical Psychologist
Procedure:   The intragastric balloon is placed into the stomach by an endoscope passed through the mouth.

The inflated balloon restricts the capacity of the stomach allowing you to eat just small amounts before feeling full
Anaesthetic   Local anaesthetic throat spray and intravenous sedation
Operating time   This is a 20 minute procedure
Overnight stay   No, this is a day case procedure and patients are usually discharged within a few hours
Recovery time   1-2 hours
How long before achieving results   Patients usually notice within a week
Post op   Over a two week period, patients can eat normal food – just less of it. Diet sheets are provided to ensure a good balanced diet.
Folllow up   Initial daily contact by Specialist Nurse. Regular appointments with Registered Dietician
Intensive programme of re-education and behaviour modification
The intragastric balloon is removed after 6 months
Post op care continues until the 12 month anniversary
Risks   Balloon deflation or bowel obstruction are extremely rare
Full details of risks will be provided at the initial consultation
In case of emergency   Intragastric balloon will be removed by endoscopy