Weight loss surgery is becoming increasingly popular. As a result, it is now more accessible and affordable. The gastric band procedure is one of the most popular options out there today. Essentially, it means that a band is fitted around the stomach, thereby reducing how big it is. This means that the patient feels fuller quicker. It means the person cannot eat as much anymore, forcing them to finally start eating sensibly sized portions.
What Is the Gastric Balloon?
Essentially, it is a small pouch made from silicone that is inserted into the stomach of a patient. An endoscopic tube is used to achieve this. This tube first passed through the mouth into the stomach and the balloon is then inflated once in position. Inflation is done through air or saline. Further information is available from http://bellyballoon.com/introducing-the-gastric-balloon/what-is-a-gastric-balloon/.
How Does it Work?
Basically, once the balloon is in position in the stomach and it is filled, it takes up a large proportion of the stomach. This means there is less room there for food. Furthermore, the pressure of the balloon itself makes a person feel full. It is very hard to eat too much food with a gastric balloon in place, which should lead to weight loss. It is a temporary option, however, and should only be used for about six months. After that, people should either have learned to eat less and sensibly, or opt for further surgery. A lot of people find that the method is successful for them to make permanent lifestyle changes.
Is it Right for Me?
This type of balloon is not suitable for everybody. Your BMI should be between 26 and 30. If it is higher, you may have to choose a gastric band instead. On the other hand, some morbidly obese people are prescribed this balloon to help them prepare for a more significant gastric operation.
The Benefits of the Gastric Balloon
There are a number of benefits to having a gastric balloon. These are:
- The ability to lose a lot of weight.
- A simple procedure that is non-invasive and doesn’t require extensive surgery.
- Perfect to lose weight quickly in just a six month period of time. In fact, it is becoming very popular with people who are planning a wedding or even a holiday, for instance.
- Readily available, because you don’t have to be morbidly obese to be suitable for this procedure.
The gastric balloon may sound like the perfect solution for quick and easy weight loss. However, you have to understand that it is not an easy solution. Losing weight properly means that you have to be committed to making lifestyle changes. You cannot simply put on weight, fit a balloon for six months to lose it and start all over again. Being overweight has various significant health risks and if you do want to enjoy a long, happy and, most of all, healthy life, you will have to be committed to making the necessary changes to keep the weight off.