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A gastric balloon is a temporary weight loss device that can be used to improve eating habits and decrease food intake. The balloon will be removed at the end of the recommended treatment time, unlike permanent bariatric surgery. Understanding what’s going to happen before, during, and after removal can ease your anxiety.
The length of time the balloon is in place and the type of balloon will vary, and so will the timeframe of Gastric Balloon Removal: What to Expect During and After. Patients can talk to a bariatric surgeon like Dr. Tanseer Asghar at Slimthetics and discuss how the procedure will be performed.
Why Does a Gastric Balloon Need to Be Removed?
A gastric balloon is not meant to be left in the stomach long-term. The balloon system may remain in place for several months or more, depending on the specific balloon system. Some systems will stay in place for 12 months. This is based on your medical plan and the device.
Once the treatment period is complete, the balloon needs to be removed. Your doctor might also suggest ongoing nutritional counseling and lifestyle support following removal to help you continue the progress you’ve made during treatment.
What Happens Before Balloon Removal?
Your doctor will check your progress and general health before the removal. The procedure may be preceded by instructions on fasting. This is significant as the extraction is generally done via an endoscope.
Your health care team may also check your medicines and give you special advice on what you can and can’t eat or drink before the procedure.
Dr. Tanseer Asghar at Slimthetics can evaluate your progress and tell you what you can anticipate depending on what type of gastric balloon you’re using.
What Happens During Gastric Balloon Removal?
The removal of the gastric balloon is normally done endoscopically. An endoscope is inserted into the mouth and into the stomach by the doctor. This will provide the doctor with a clear view of the balloon.
It is then punctured and deflated. The material is washed away, and the deflated balloon is gently retrieved via the mouth. An abdominal incision is not necessary for the procedure.
The patient is usually sedated during the procedure to ensure comfort. You will often require a person to drive you home after the sedative has been taken because of its sedative effect.
Is Gastric Balloon Removal Painful?
Sedation is used during the removal, and the majority of patients have little pain during the procedure. You will likely experience a slight sore throat, bloating, nausea, or stomach discomfort after the procedure.
These are typically temporary side effects. Your doctor will let you know how to deal with any discomfort and when you can go back to your normal diet.
What to Expect After Removal?
One of the most significant changes following gastric balloon removal is the absence of the balloon in the stomach. Changes in fullness and appetite may be noticed.
Once you have deflated the balloon, though, your weight-loss journey isn’t over. Habits formed through treatment are a factor that is important for maintaining the results.
All of these, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, portion control, and continuous medical advice, can help in maintaining weight in the long term. Medical sources also stress that weight may be regained following balloon removal if lifestyle changes are not sustained.
When Can You Return to Normal Activities?
Gastric balloon removal is done endoscopically and is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, making the recovery period relatively quick. The exact period, however, will depend on each person’s condition and the type of sedation that is administered.
Your doctor may recommend taking it easy for the rest of the day. Eating and exercising guidelines from your health care team are important, and you shouldn’t return to your usual routine.
Cost of Gastric Balloon Treatment in Islamabad
The cost of gastric balloon in Islamabad starts at around PKR 400,000 to PKR 500,000, depending on the treatment plan and balloon system.
The final cost may depend on:
- Types of gastric balloons
- Doctor’s expertise
- Pre-treatment assessments
- Procedure and facility charges
- Sedation requirements
- Follow-up and nutritional support
- Additional medical care, if required
Dr. Tanseer Asghar can evaluate your case, explain the treatment plan, and provide an accurate cost estimate based on your individual needs.
Why Follow-Up Matters After Removal?
The following is part of Gastric Balloon Removal: What to Expect During and After. Follow-up can be useful as the balloon is just one component of weight loss.
Patients will be advised by Slimthetics on proper nutrition, exercise, portion control, and healthy lifestyles after the balloon is removed. It can be helpful to have continuous support for long-term goals.
Final Thoughts
The removal of a gastric balloon is usually an easy endoscopy procedure. The balloon is deflated and removed from the mouth, typically without cuts or incisions into the mouth. Keeping up good habits is particularly important afterward.
If you are considering gastric balloon treatment, consult with Dr. Tanseer Asghar at Slimthetics regarding your removal process, recovery, and plans for maintaining your weight loss.
