What is the Obalon 3-Balloon System?
The Obalon Balloon is the only FDA-approved swallowable gastric balloon. The Obalon Balloon System consists of three silicon balloons filled with medical gas which take up space in the stomach to reduce hunger and help patients lose weight. This innovative weight loss solution is quick, non-surgical, reversible and effective for long term weight loss. Together with a diet and exercise program, Obalon is designed to help patients begin their weight loss journey.
How Does the Obalon Balloon Work?
There are several steps in the Obalon Balloon System, placement of the balloons, removal and post-balloon lifestyle habits. To place the balloons, the patient will swallow a capsule containing a single deflated Obalon balloon. The capsule is attached to a thin tube which is used to inflate the balloon with medical gas. The entire procedure usually takes less than 20 minutes and requires no sedation. The two additional balloons will be added over the next few months one at a time to support the weight loss process. Six months after the first balloon is placed, all the balloons are removed endoscopically under light sedation. During the time the balloons are in place, patients feel fuller more quickly and eat less. Weight loss occurs by reduced calorie consumption along with diet and lifestyle changes. After the balloons are removed the patient will be given additional support by our practice to give them motivation and knowledge to maintain weight loss long term.
Benefits of the Obalon Balloon
- Nonsurgical an option for people who don’t want, or don’t qualify for weight loss surgery
- Reversible the balloons can be removed at any time over the 6 months
- Safe there are minimal side effects or risks
- Effective clinically proven to help patients lose, on average, twice as much weight as diet and exercise alone
- Lasting results Most patients participating in clinical trials maintained their weight loss, or lost more weight, after the balloons were removed
Am I a Candidate?
To determine if you are a candidate for Obalon, you must have a consultation with one of our doctors. Patients who have had prior weight loss surgeries are not eligible.
If you meet the following criteria you may be a candidate for Obalon:
- Age between 22-60
- BMI of 30 – 40
- Have tried to lose weight through diet and exercise without success
- Committed to making long term diet and lifestyle changes
Obalon And Your Weight Loss Plan
Patients who have the best results use the gastric balloons as one part of their weight loss plan. Additional changes to lifestyle and diet after the balloons have been removed help maintain long term weight loss. Our practice will provide additional nutrition counseling and support along the way. Forming new habits and being motivated to see results is essential for success with the Obalon Balloon System.
Contact Us
To discuss the Obalon Balloon or other gastric balloons with one of our doctors, contact us. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about the gastric balloon process and support you in making positive change in your life.