Overweight is a growing issue worldwide, and it is linked to various health complications such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. While nutrition and physical activity are the key approaches for weight loss, some individuals may require additional help to achieve their objectives. Balloon surgery is a non-invasive treatment that has acquired fame in modern years as a secure and effective way to lose weight. In this post, we will discuss what balloon surgery is, how it works, and its advantages and threats.

What is Balloon Surgery?

Balloon surgery, also known as intragastric balloon surgery, is a non-surgical weight loss operation that includes placing a soft, silicone balloon in the stomach. The balloon is loaded with saline solution, which creates a sensation of fullness and lowers hunger. The treatment is executed under sedation and takes about 20-30 minutes to finish.

How Does Balloon Surgery Work?

The balloon takes up space in the stomach, which decreases the amount of food that can be consumed. This leads to a decline in calorie intake, which results in weight loss. The balloon is left in the stomach for six months, after which it is removed. During this time, patients are advised to follow a healthy diet and physical activity regimen to maximize weight loss.

Benefits of Balloon Surgery

Balloon surgery has several benefits, including:

  1. Non-surgical: Balloon surgery is a non-invasive treatment, which means that there is no cutting or incisions involved. This reduces the risk of complications and allows for a quicker recovery time.
  2. Effective: Balloon surgery has been shown to be an successful way to lose weight. Studies have shown that patients can lose up to 15% of their body weight within six months of the treatment.
  3. Safe: Balloon surgery is a protected operation, with a low danger of complications. The most frequent side effects are nausea and vomiting, which usually resolve within a few days.
  4. Reversible: The balloon can be removed at any time, which means that the treatment is reversible. This is an important consideration for patients who may change their minds about the procedure or experience complications.

Risks of Balloon Surgery

While balloon surgery is typically safe, there are some risks associated with the operation. https://non-surgicalweightloss.com/alternatives-to-weight-loss-surgery/ include:

  1. Nausea and vomiting: The most common side effects of balloon surgery are nausea and vomiting. These usually resolve within a few days, but in some cases, they may persist.
  2. Infection: There is a minor risk of infection associated with balloon surgery. Patients are given antibiotics to reduce this risk.
  3. Balloon deflation: In rare cases, the balloon may deflate or rupture. This can lead to abdominal pain and discomfort and may require surgical intervention.
  4. Gastrointestinal problems: Some patients may experience gastrointestinal problems such as acid reflux, bloating, and constipation.

Who is a Candidate for Balloon Surgery?

Balloon surgery is recommended for patients who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher and have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. It is also recommended for patients who are not candidates for other weight loss procedures such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.

Preparing for Balloon Surgery

Before undergoing balloon surgery, patients will need to undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure that they are healthy enough for the procedure. They will also need to follow a pre-operative diet and exercise regimen to prepare their body for the procedure.

Conclusion

Balloon surgery is a secure and efficient way to lose weight for patients who have not been able to achieve their weight loss goals through diet and exercise alone. While the procedure has some dangers, it is typically well-tolerated and has a low risk of complications. Patients who are considering balloon surgery should talk about the procedure with their doctor to determine if it is the right option for them.

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Pub: 26 May 2023 07:25 UTC

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