Gastric balloon treatment is a non-surgical, temporary weight loss solution designed to help patients lose weight by occupying space in the stomach, creating a prolonged feeling of fullness. A soft, medical-grade balloon is inserted into the stomach and filled with sterile saline, reducing appetite and limiting food intake.
This procedure is ideal for individuals who are overweight or mildly obese and looking for a less invasive alternative to bariatric surgery.
The balloon is inserted into the stomach endoscopically or swallowed as a capsule, depending on the system used
Once in place, the balloon is inflated with saline or air
The procedure takes 15–30 minutes and is done without incisions or general anesthesia
Patients return home the same day
The balloon remains in the stomach for 6 to 12 months, depending on the model, and is then removed or deflates naturally if swallowable.
• Reduces stomach volume, limiting food intake
• Slows gastric emptying, keeping you full longer
• Encourages smaller portion sizes and better eating habits
• Helps improve hormonal regulation of hunger and satiety
•Serves as a tool for behavioral change and nutrition education
Non-surgical and incision-free
Reversible and temporary
Minimal downtime—return to daily life in 1–2 days
Can help patients lose 10–25 kg, depending on lifestyle adherence
Useful for preparing for future bariatric surgery
Improves overall health markers (blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure)
Gastric balloon may be right for individuals who:
Have a BMI between 27 and 40
Have not succeeded with diet and exercise alone
Want a non-surgical weight loss option
Are not eligible for or not ready for bariatric surgery
Are willing to follow medical and nutritional guidance
A full medical evaluation will determine your eligibility and which balloon system is best for your needs.
Several FDA-approved and CE-certified balloon systems are available:
Endoscopic Balloons: Inserted and removed via endoscopy
Swallowable Balloons: Swallowed as a capsule and deflates on its own Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate option based on your goals, anatomy, and medical history.
• Mild nausea, bloating, or cramping may occur as your stomach adjusts
• These symptoms usually subside within 3 to 7 days
• Medication may be provided to reduce discomfort
• Patients follow a liquid diet initially, gradually transitioning to soft and then regular foods
The gastric balloon is most effective when combined with:
Customized meal plans from a registered dietitian
Behavioral therapy or coaching to manage emotional eating
Exercise guidance tailored to your fitness level
Regular check-ins with your medical team for motivation and monitoring
These services are essential to promote long-term results and prevent weight regain after balloon removal.
If an endoscopic balloon is used:
It is removed via endoscopy under light sedation after 6–12 months
The procedure takes 10–20 minutes, with same-day discharge
Patients continue their weight maintenance program after removal
If a swallowable balloon is used, it deflates and passes naturally through the digestive system.
Sustained weight loss requires:
Ongoing dietary discipline
Maintenance of regular physical activity
Follow-up care even after the balloon is removed
Understanding that the balloon is a tool, not a cure
Patients who actively engage in their post-balloon care often keep off 50–70% of their lost weight long term.
One
Local anesthesia
Immediately
7 days
None
* For informational purposes only, be sure to consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Most patients lose between 10 and 25 kilograms, or 10–15% of their body weight, depending on adherence to diet and lifestyle changes.
The procedure itself is painless. Some patients experience temporary nausea, cramping, or bloating during the first few days, which subsides with medication and time.
Yes, but you'll need to reduce portion sizes, avoid high-fat and sugary foods, and follow the dietary plan provided by your care team.
Modern balloons are designed to be safe even if deflated. Endoscopic balloons are removed after 6–12 months. Swallowable balloons pass naturally and safely.
Yes. Patients may repeat treatment after a rest period, or transition to a more permanent procedure if necessary.
The balloon is temporary, but the lifestyle changes it supports can lead to long-term weight control. Ongoing support and follow-up are key.
Yes. Light walking is encouraged immediately. As your body adapts, you can gradually return to regular physical activity.
Yes. When placed and monitored by experienced professionals, the procedure is low-risk and well-tolerated by most patients.
Yes. Gastric balloon is a popular medical tourism procedure due to its simplicity, short recovery, and non-surgical nature. We are typically offer full packages including post-procedure support.
Medipol University Hospital, being the justifiably proud of Medipol Education and Health Group in Turkey and in the world, resulting in this spirit, is a health complex having JCI standards accepting patients from all over the world.
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