Gastric Balloon in Türkiye

What a gastric balloon is

A gastric balloon is a soft, flexible silicone device placed in the stomach to occupy space and create an earlier feeling of fullness. It is a temporary, non-surgical option, usually left in place for around six to twelve months depending on the type, and then removed.

It does not involve incisions or changes to the stomach itself. It is often considered by people who do not meet or do not wish to undergo surgical criteria, or as a first supportive step, but it works best alongside dietary guidance.

How the technique works

The balloon is inserted through the mouth with an endoscope, a thin flexible camera tube, usually while you are sedated. The stomach is inspected first, and the balloon is then positioned and filled with sterile saline, sometimes tinted so that any leak can be recognised.

Some types are swallowed in a capsule and filled afterwards, and some adjustable versions exist. The balloon takes up space and may slow stomach emptying, which helps with portion control while you build new eating habits.

• Endoscopic examination of the stomach
• Placement of the balloon through the mouth
• Filling with sterile saline
• Planned removal endoscopically after the set period

Who is a suitable candidate

A balloon is usually considered for adults with a body mass index in a moderate range who have not achieved sustained weight loss through diet and exercise alone, or for those preparing for another procedure. Your doctor will decide whether it is appropriate after an evaluation.

Certain situations make a balloon unsuitable, and some require careful assessment before it is offered.

• Previous stomach or upper digestive tract surgery
• Large hiatal hernia, ulcers or severe reflux
• Bleeding disorders or use of blood thinners
• Pregnancy, or plans to become pregnant during the treatment period

Procedure day, recovery and results timeline

The placement is usually brief and done as a day procedure, with a short observation period afterwards. Nausea, stomach cramping and vomiting are common in the first days as the stomach adapts, and medication is generally prescribed to ease these symptoms.

Diet is progressed from liquids to soft foods and then regular small meals. Weight loss is typically greatest in the first few months and varies widely. The balloon must be removed at the planned time, and the period afterwards is important for maintaining new habits.

Risks and important considerations

Besides early nausea and discomfort, risks include persistent vomiting, dehydration, reflux, stomach ulcers, balloon deflation or migration, and, rarely, bowel obstruction or perforation. Deflation requires prompt medical attention.

Weight may return after removal if habits do not change. Be sure to understand how the balloon is monitored, how removal is arranged and what to do if symptoms occur once you are back home.

Results and recovery times vary from person to person. Every treatment starts with a medical evaluation by a licensed specialist.