Myths and Facts About Gastric Balloon
The gastric balloon is one solution that frequently appears while exploring the world of confusing weight loss procedures. Gastric balloon which is also known as intragastric balloon is an FDA-approved, nonsurgical treatment for weight loss. Like other weight loss procedures, gastric balloons don’t need to remove any part of your stomach.
The Gastric Balloon is fitted inside a capsule that is about the size of a large vitamin tablet. Most people who undergo this procedure are able to swallow the capsule with just a glass of water, like a vitamin tablet or headache pill. A catheter is attached to the capsule, which helps to inflate it later. This catheter is soft, which makes it a little hard to reach down into your stomach. However, a thin wire called a stylet is used to make the catheter a little harder so that the gastric balloon pill is gently nudged down into place.
With its increasing popularity, it’s crucial to distinguish the facts from myths while making important decisions regarding your weight loss. Here, in this blog, Dr. V. Pareek, added his insights to understand the truth behind misconceptions around the gastric balloon procedure. If you want to consider this procedure as an option for losing your extra weight, know the truth behind the myths.
Consult Dr. Venugopal Pareek, one of the best weight-loss surgeons in Hyderabad, for a clear understanding of what to expect.
Myths and Facts
Myth: Inserting the gastric balloon is a complicated surgery
Fact: The gastric balloon procedure is not a complicated surgery. It is a quick outpatient procedure that involves placing the deflated balloon inside your stomach without anesthesia. This is called endoscopy, and once the balloon reaches its position, it is inflated and filled with a saline solution. The gastric balloon procedure doesn’t require making any incisions in the stomach or need to stay in the hospital.
Myth: The recovery time of this procedure is long
Fact: It is not fact; almost all patients can return to their regular activities within three days following the procedure. Patients are able to continue regular, healthy lifestyles after gastric balloon treatment, which is one of its finest advantages.
Myth: People who are extremely obese are the only ones who benefit from this procedure.
Fact: In general, individuals with a BMI above 30 are commonly considered suitable candidates for gastric balloon procedures. However, it can also be a viable alternative for people whose BMI falls below the threshold level for bariatric procedures, especially when controlled diet and exercise (traditional weight loss approaches) don’t improve their condition.
If you are looking for a non-surgical weight loss solution, consult Dr. Venugopal Pareek, one of the best bariatric surgeons in Hyderabad. He will initiate a screening process to confirm your candidacy for the gastric balloon procedure.
Myth: The gastric balloon has side effects and is not safe
Fact: gastric balloons are completely safe and have been scientifically proven. It is not only safe but also a highly effective method to lose those extra pounds of weight. Frankly speaking, less than one or two people out of 1000 who undergo gastric balloon surgery may experience adverse side effects.
Myth: My stomach shape changes during and after the procedure
Fact: No, the gastric balloon will not change the shape of your stomach. The gastric balloon is designed in such a way as to adjust to your stomach’s shape. Moreover, our stomach can expand and contract, which can adapt easily to the soft and malleable balloon when it is placed.
It fits tightly in your stomach, which occupies more space in your stomach, allows you to eat smaller portions of food, and also slows down the digestion of food. It means your appetite is reduced, which eventually reduces your weight.
Myth: Gastric balloon procedure is a permanent weight loss solution.
Fact: Gastric balloon indeed helps you lose weight, but it is not a permanent fix. Typically, it is the first step in your weight loss journey, and once the balloon is removed, it is highly important to make some changes in your lifestyle, particularly the food you consume, and your physical activities, to maintain the ideal weight you achieved.
A gastric balloon procedure might be a suitable weight loss option only for specific individuals. However, before you make a choice, it is extremely important to learn everything about the procedure and get clarification regarding any misconceptions you may have heard about this treatment. If you are looking for a weight loss solution, make an appointment with Dr. Venugopal Pareek, the best weight loss surgeon in Hyderabad. For a complete evaluation and to know whether this is a suitable treatment option for you, call +91 91 777 77715 right away.
