Weight-Loss (Intragastric) Balloon | Conditions & Treatments

Overview

A weight-loss balloon, also called a double-balloon enteroscopy or intragastric balloon, is a simple procedure that kick-starts weight loss by inserting a soft yet durable balloon comfortably into your stomach.

By taking up space in the stomach, the weight loss balloon gives you the sensation of being full, reducing the desire to eat. This makes portion control easier and weight loss more manageable when coupled with proper diet and exercise.

Over the six months the balloon remains in the stomach, patients typically experience weight loss between 20 and 35 pounds, as well as improved diabetic and blood pressure control. Once the balloon is removed, a healthy diet and exercise become critical to your continued success. Our team will provide ongoing support to help you stay on track and feel great.

Video: How the Orbera Intragastric Balloon Enteroscopy Works

The weight-loss balloon is available to patients who:

Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30 and 40
Consult with the provider and dietitian on proper nutrition
Meet physical, medical, and psychological criteria

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain during the first few weeks after insertion. Rare complications can include a balloon rupture or balloon migration. Before the procedure, it’s important to talk about risks and benefits with your provider.

The double-balloon procedure is not currently covered by health insurance. Patients who are interested in the procedure will be responsible for the cost.

UR Medicine's Approach

Double-balloon enteroscopy is offered by the UR Medicine Bariatric Endoscopy Program. We are partnered with the Bariatric Surgery Center at Highland Hospital.

Step 1. The first step is a consultation. Our providers will discuss your weight loss goals and expectations and provide a detailed outline of the process.

Step 2. Diagnostic tests will ensure that you’re qualified for the procedure, and that it’s the right weight loss solution for you.

Step 3. The balloon is placed into your stomach through a simple, non-surgical outpatient endoscopic procedure that typically takes 30-40 minutes. The balloon will stay in your stomach for 6 months.

Step 4. Through a similar outpatient procedure to insertion, the balloon is removed from the stomach and ongoing support is provided by the team for up to 6 months.

What Sets Us Apart?

UR Medicine Gastroenterology and Hepatology provides the same state-of-the-art treatments that are available at other world-class academic centers across the country.

Our Bariatric Center at Highland Hospital, which partners in offering this service, is a pioneer in the region. The center introduced laparoscopic bariatric surgery to the region in 2000, and its director teaches his techniques internationally.