Intragastric Balloon Weight Loss Programme

The intragastric balloon is a smooth silicone sphere which is filled with liquid and stays in the stomach for 6 months. Fitting the balloon takes about 15 minutes and the procedure is done under sedation - so there is no general anaesthetic needed.  Removal of the balloon is also done under sedation and takes about 20 minutes.

It works in 3 ways:

~ it takes up space within the stomach which restricts how much you can eat

~ it slows down the time it takes to digest food which means that a small amount of food satisfies you for longer

~  the presence of the balloon sends a message to the brain to register that the the stomach is full

The system offers many advantages over conventional diets and weight loss programmes. It involves a visit to hospital to have a soft, silicone balloon fitted in the stomach and filled with sterile saline. The procedures to fit and remove the balloon are carried out by a consultant surgeon or physician. The balloon will be removed after 6 months. With the balloon you will have a feeling of satiety, or lack of hunger and with the help of the balloon you can work on adopting the lifestyle changes needed to lose weight. 

The balloon is not a miracle cure for excess weight, but it is a very powerful tool to help you achieve your health goals.

One of the most important aspects of this weight loss treatment is the support programme.  Gateway's unique 12 month support and aftercare programme provides our patients with the attention, care and support they need and deserve while they achieve their health goals.

Making lifestyle changes can be challenging and our team of dedicated professionals will be there with you every step of the way.  Our programme leaders understand your journey and many have been through weight loss treatment programmes themselves.

So, the balloon programme offers a non-surgical weight loss treatment and is most suitable for patients who*:

• Are at least 18 years old
• Have a BMI greater than 27
• Are ready to comply with a serious medically supervised weight loss  programme

There are certain medical conditions that would mean you are not suitable for an intragastric balloon and these are*:

• Previous history of gastro-intestinal surgery, obstruction,adhesive peritonitis or a large hiatus hernia
• Severe kidney, liver or lung disease
• Chronic, long term steroid treatment
• Unwillingness to adopt the dietary habits critical to the success of the treatment
• Drug or alcohol dependency in the last 12 months
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

*Full assessment of your suitability is always carried out with your health care team

If you have had a gastric balloon fitted abroad and are looking for a UK support programme, call us in confidence to discuss your individual needs.

* loans subject to status and amount

For more information about the intragastric balloon or to book your consultation (assessment) appointment;

email info@gatewayhealth.co.uk or call us on: 0845 9000 339