Let's learn more about the Intragastric Balloon (intragastric balloon) for weight loss!

Are you tired of trying to lose weight? Sometimes, no matter how much we control our diet and exercise, we don't get the results we want. This challenge is even greater when we live with a condition called obesity. So, for those of you who are afraid of going for surgery but still want to lose weight, we are going to tell you about a new, relatively low-risk method in medicine. That is the Intragastric Balloon.

Simply put, what is an Intragastric Balloon?

Imagine that you put a small, soft balloon inside your stomach and fill it with a liquid like water. This is what we call the `Intragastric Balloon` system. ``Intragastric`` means ``inside the stomach.`` This is a non-surgical medical procedure for weight loss.

When this balloon is in the stomach, it takes up some space in the stomach. So you feel full even if you eat a little. It's as if the stomach is getting smaller. This limits the amount of food you can eat. But this is temporary . After a few months, the balloon is removed again. During that time, you will get a lot of help in getting used to a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Why do we need this kind of treatment?

Obesity causes several changes in our bodies. One of them is that over time, our stomach gradually increases in size. Just like a rubber band is stretched, our stomach also gets bigger. This means that we have to eat a lot to fill up.

Almost every medical procedure for weight loss involves reducing the amount of space in the stomach in some way. However, compared to other methods, this approach has several distinct advantages:

1. Temporary: This is not permanent. It is removed after about 6 months.

2. Non-surgical: There is no major surgery required to insert the balloon, so there are no scars.

3. No need for general anesthesia: This procedure does not require you to be completely unconscious (general anesthesia). Usually, only a mild sedative is given.

For these reasons, it is a good option for those who are not eligible for bariatric surgery, or who do not want to undergo surgery.

Who is this screening method suitable for and who is it not suitable for?

This is not something everyone can do. A doctor will decide if you are suitable for this. Let's take a look at who is usually recommended for this method and who is not.

How much weight can you lose by jumping?

On average, a person can lose about 10% of their total body weight through this method. That means, if you weigh 100 kg, you will lose about 10 kg. This is enough to make a big difference to your health in a short period of time, like 6 months.

But remember, this is not magic. Results may vary depending on how closely you follow your doctor's instructions, especially your diet. Also, if you go back to your old bad habits after you've taken the pill, you're more likely to gain back the weight you lost .

How does the process of inserting a ballot happen?

This is something that happens in several steps. Let's look at it.

1. Preparation before the process

Once your doctor decides you're a good fit, you'll be assigned a medical team to help you along the way. This team may include a nutritionist, gastroenterologist, psychiatrist, or counselor. They'll create a weight loss plan that's right for you.

For a few days before the procedure, you will be asked to eat only a clear liquid diet. This will help cleanse your stomach. You will also be instructed not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before.

2. Inserting the balloon

The balloon is often inserted using an instrument called an endoscope . This is a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached to it. This tube is passed through your mouth, down your esophagus, and into your stomach. You will be given a mild sedative to help you feel comfortable.

• First, the doctor will examine the inside of your stomach with an endoscope camera to make sure there are no problems that would prevent the examination.
• If everything is fine, the empty balloon is passed into the stomach.
• Then, a saline solution is filled into the balloon through a tube.
• When the balloon is filled to the required size, the tube is removed. The valve in the balloon closes automatically, so the liquid does not come out again.

The entire procedure takes about 20-30 minutes . After that, you will need to stay in the hospital for a few hours under observation. You will be given medication to control things like pain and nausea. You will be allowed to go home after it is confirmed that you can tolerate the procedure.

3. After the process

You can't just go back to eating normally after you get home. You need to give your stomach time to adjust to the new diet.

• Liquid diet in the early days.
• Next are pureed foods.
• Then a soft diet like boiled vegetables and rice.
• Eventually, you can get used to the long-term meal plan your nutritionist provides.

Your medical team will be in constant contact with you during this time.

Removal of the balloon and side effects

The balloon usually stays in your stomach for about 6 months . During this time, you should practice healthy habits. After 6 months, the balloon is removed using an endoscope, just as it was inserted. The doctor punctures the balloon, removes all the fluid in it, and takes out the empty balloon.

After the cast is removed, you will receive support from the medical team for about 6 months to see if you are maintaining your new good habits.

Finally, how successful is this method?

Many people can successfully lose weight with this method of weight loss. And they can also get relief from many health problems caused by obesity. However, as we have said before, this is not a permanent solution . This is just a great "path" that will allow you to live a healthier life.

Some people gain weight back after having their tummy tuck removed. At such times, some people resort to tummy tuck treatment again, while others consider other medical treatments or surgery.

Ultimately, the Intragastric Balloon is a good, relatively low-risk medical option for those battling obesity. However, to get the most out of it, you need to be committed to making long-term changes to your lifestyle, with the support of your medical team.