Question 1

Is the balloon placement painful?

Accepted Answer

The procedure is performed under light intravenous sedation — you are comfortable and unaware throughout. There is no pain during placement. The first 3–5 days after placement involve nausea and a cramping sensation as the stomach adjusts; this is managed with prescribed anti-nausea medication and typically resolves by day 5–7.

Question 2

Can I eat normally with the balloon in place?

Accepted Answer

Portion sizes are significantly reduced — most patients comfortably eat approximately one-third of their previous meal volume before feeling full. The quality of food is unrestricted (all textures are safe), but the structured meal plan focuses on protein-first eating, avoidance of high-calorie liquids and slow, mindful chewing.

Question 3

What happens to the weight after the balloon is removed?

Accepted Answer

The balloon is a tool to kickstart weight loss and retraining portion habits — it is not a permanent solution on its own. Patients who complete the nutritional programme and maintain lifestyle changes retain the majority of their loss. Those who return to previous eating patterns experience rebound. This is why the post-removal behaviour programme is as important as the balloon itself.

Question 4

Who is not a suitable candidate for the gastric balloon?

Accepted Answer

Contraindications include active gastric ulcers, large hiatal hernia, previous gastric surgery, inflammatory bowel disease, regular NSAID or anticoagulant use, and pregnancy. Patients with severe GERD may experience worsened reflux and are assessed individually. Pre-procedure endoscopy screens for all of these.

Question 5

Can the balloon be combined with a future surgical procedure?

Accepted Answer

Yes — the gastric balloon is frequently used as a bridge for patients who are not yet surgical candidates due to very high BMI (> 55) or significant cardiac risk. Weight loss with the balloon reduces anaesthesia risk, making a subsequent sleeve gastrectomy or bypass safer. It is also chosen by patients who want to trial a non-surgical option before committing to permanent bariatric surgery.