A recent review of the available data on gastric balloons for weight loss reported in Healio found that the treatments have led to significant improvements in weight loss and other health outcomes resulting from the efforts of obese patients, when compared to unassisted efforts. It also noted very few problematic results relating to the treatment. This study provides further proof of what BHP’s physicians have seen while using the Orbera Gastric Balloon: it is a safe treatment that dramatically increases the effectiveness of weight loss efforts.

Gastric balloon treatments are non-surgical procedures that fill an important gap for people who are dealing with medically significant weight problems. This is because, while weight loss surgeries have been highly beneficial to numerous individuals, they are not available to people who do not meet the medical definition of severe obesity. The Orbera weight loss system is primarily intended for individuals with weight problems who nevertheless do not qualify for weight loss surgeries such as sleeve gastrectomies. Typically, people who receive gastric galloons have BMIs (body mass index) of between 30 and 40. In most cases patients lose approximately 10 percent of their body weight on average, roughly three times more than individuals who attempt to lose weight without a procedure.

The procedure is performed in under an hour and involves the balloon being inserted endoscopically while the patient is under anesthesia. Once inserted, the balloon is inflated so there is significantly less room in the stomach for a period of six months. As with other weight loss procedures, the reduction of available room in the stomach makes overeating uncomfortable and reduces the patient’s appetite, making weight loss significantly less difficult. As with all weight loss procedures, the balloon should not be regarded an “easy way out” and, to be successful, patients must learn to properly manage their food intake and make permanent changes to their eating and exercise habits.

Orbera Gastric Balloon, still relatively new in the United States, has been popular in Europe for a number of years, where it has produced consistently positive results. Individuals, who would like to learn more about the various weight loss options available from BHP, as well as a range of health and beauty treatments for both women and men, are welcome to contact us.