What to Expect from a Gastric Balloon in Dubai
If you are considering a Gastric Balloon in Dubai, it is important to understand what this weight loss procedure entails, how it is performed, and what you can expect during the process and recovery. The gastric balloon is a popular non-surgical option to help reduce stomach capacity, curb appetite, and support your weight loss journey.
What Is a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon is a soft, inflatable medical device that is temporarily placed inside your stomach to help you feel full faster. It reduces the available space inside your stomach, so you eat smaller portions and naturally consume fewer calories. This procedure is designed for adults struggling with obesity who want a less invasive alternative to surgery.
There are different types of gastric balloons, including the Elipse balloon, which does not require endoscopy or anesthesia and involves swallowing a capsule instead. Another common type is the Orbera balloon, which is inserted endoscopically and inflated with saline once inside the stomach. Most gastric balloons remain inside the stomach for about six months before being removed or passing naturally.
The Gastric Balloon Procedure in Dubai
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a consultation with a weight loss specialist or bariatric doctor. During this appointment, your medical history, weight loss goals, and overall health will be assessed to determine if the gastric balloon is the right fit for you.
Placement of the Balloon
The procedure itself is minimally invasive and usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Depending on the balloon type, the process may vary:
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For the Elipse balloon, no endoscopy or anesthesia is needed. You simply swallow a capsule containing the deflated balloon, which is then inflated with water in your stomach after confirmation by X-ray.
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For balloons like Orbera, endoscopy is used to place the deflated balloon into your stomach, and it is then filled with sterile saline under mild sedation.
After placement, most patients can return home the same day and quickly resume normal activities, though some rest and observation may be recommended initially.
What to Expect After Placement
Early Days and Side Effects
In the first few days, it is common to experience mild side effects such as nausea, discomfort, or occasional vomiting as your stomach adjusts to the balloon. Your doctor will guide you through a modified diet plan, generally starting with liquids and gradually progressing to soft and then solid foods.
Diet and Lifestyle Adaptations
To maximize the benefits of the gastric balloon, you will usually work closely with a nutritionist or dietitian. They will help develop a personalized eating plan that focuses on smaller portion sizes and healthier meal choices. This adjustment supports steady weight loss and helps you learn long-term habits for better health.
Weight Loss Expectations
Most patients experience a noticeable reduction in appetite and food intake shortly after balloon placement. On average, you can expect to lose about 15% of your body weight within the six months the balloon remains in place. This weight loss can lead to improvements in various health factors, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
Follow-up and Balloon Removal
Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare team are important to monitor your progress and address any concerns. After approximately six months, the balloon is either removed endoscopically or passes naturally (depending on the balloon type), marking the end of this phase of treatment.
Recovery and Long-Term Outlook
The gastric balloon procedure has a short recovery period with no major downtime. After the balloon is removed, continuing with a balanced diet and exercise is essential to maintain weight loss results. Your medical team will typically offer ongoing support to help you sustain a healthier lifestyle.
Choosing a Gastric Balloon Dubai offers a non-surgical, effective way to begin your weight loss journey with medical supervision and support. Understanding the procedure, aftercare, and lifestyle changes helps you prepare for a successful experience and lasting results.
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