A Non-Surgical Approach to Weight Loss: The Swallowable Gastric Balloon
The swallowable gastric balloon has hit the news in recent months, but it might surprise you that the swallowable weight loss balloon has actually been around since the 1980s. Invented in 1985 by two husband and wife gastroenterologists, Lloyd R. Garren and Mary L. Garren, the device didn’t get off to a great start – delivering substandard weight loss results meaning it was taken off the market in 1992.
These days, however, with major advances in science, the swallowable balloon for weight loss is becoming more and more popular and clients are now able to achieve great results when they combine the balloon you swallow for weight loss with our comprehensive weight loss programme.
What is a Gastric Balloon?
The gastric balloon we use as part of the Allurion Programme is a soft inflatable silicone device. It comes in the form of a capsule that can be swallowed easily without any surgical incision needed.
Once the balloon has been swallowed it is then filled with a sterile solution. This allows the balloon to expand to its correct size once inside your stomach. The balloon typically stays within your stomach for around 16 weeks. As you can appreciate, with this gastric balloon in place you will experience a feeling of being full and therefore any hunger pangs will be reduced.
Swallowable Gastric Balloon for Weight Loss
One of the great advances in these new gastric balloons is their ability to pass naturally through your digestive system once they have done their job. Patients can expect to typically lose around 10% – 15% of their total weight. The procedure is carried out without sedation or anaesthesia – meaning you can get on with your everyday life straight away.
Gastric Balloon Benefits and Risks
As with all treatments, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons before you make your final decision. In terms of benefits, you can expect to enjoy –
Potential for long-term weight loss when combined with lifestyle and dietary changes
Minimally invasive procedure
Increase your mobility
Boost feelings of self-esteem
Reduce your risk of diabetes
Address sleep issues
In terms of risks, there are a few things you might wish to consider –
Potential for abdominal discomfort
Possibility of nausea and/or vomiting
Indigestion
Feeling imbalance
If you are worried about any possible risks and want to find out more information on anything in particular – please raise your concerns at the consultation. At Dr SW Clinics, our aim is to make sure all of our clients are as happy and comfortable as possible during whatever procedure they’re having.
Gastric Balloon Questions and Answers
If you’re considering a gastric balloon procedure, we appreciate that you’ll probably have many unanswered questions pressing on your mind. So, let’s answer some of them.
Is a gastric balloon safe? Yes, gastric balloons are safe, well tolerated, and minimally invasive
Can you shrink your stomach? Gastric balloons reduce the volume of your stomach as once they’re inflated they take up a substantial space within your tummy
Do gastric balloons work? Gastric balloons are considered to work well when used in conjunction with a weight loss programme and lifestyle and dietary changes
Do I qualify for gastric balloon? You will need to come in for a consultation to discuss your situation and only once we’ve carried out a thorough assessment will we be able to establish your suitability for this procedure
Can a gastric balloon be removed? Yes! The gastric balloon we use at Dr SW Clinics passes naturally through your gut
How much is a swallowable gastric balloon? The treatment price for this procedure starts at £4500. We will be able to confirm the exact cost for your treatment once you have had your consultation
Non-Surgical Weight Loss Procedures
If you’re wondering, how can you shrink your stomach with an alternative method, then there are things to consider. While it’s not possible to actually shrink your stomach, you can do plenty of things to make sure you feel fuller longer, and get rid of tummy fat. You could –
Reduce your stress
Ditch trans fats (microwave popcorn, frozen pizzas, fried foods)
Eat more soluble fibre (oats, apples, whole grains)
Avoid refined carbohydrates (white bread, white rice, beer, pastries)
Embrace exercise – cardio in particular
Patient Experience with Gastric Balloon
If you’re interested in seeing how some of our clients have found the swallowable gastric balloon treatment, have a watch of Abdul’s procedure here:
As you can see, the procedure is quick and painless and you are guided through the treatment from start to finish. There are no surgical incisions, and no injections, and the whole experience is carried out in a matter of minutes.
Weight Loss for You
Perhaps you’ve struggled with weight loss for years, or maybe you’ve been told you’re at risk of developing diabetes and you know you need to do something about it. You might have tried every diet going and still you’re unable to reach your weight loss goals. Whatever your specific circumstances, with the swallowable gastric balloon and changes to your diet and lifestyle, we are confident you will see a difference to your weight.
Book in for a consultation at Dr SW Clinics and discover this groundbreaking weight loss treatment programme with experts to help and guide you.