What is Gastric Balloon Surgery?
Gastric balloon surgery is a non-surgical, minimally invasive, FDA-approved weight loss procedure. It involves placing a soft, expandable balloon inside your stomach, which reduces the amount of food you can eat at one time.
This smaller stomach space:
- Helps you feel full faster
- Reduces hunger between meals
- Supports steady, sustainable weight loss
Unlike traditional bariatric surgeries, gastric balloon:
- Requires no incisions, stapling, or rerouting of the digestive system
- Is a temporary weight loss tool, usually removed after 6–12 months
- Provides a safe way to kick-start long-term lifestyle changes
Benefits of Gastric Balloon Surgery
Choosing gastric balloon surgery comes with unique advantages:
- Non-surgical and minimally invasive
- No permanent changes to your digestive tract
- Quick, outpatient procedure
- Short recovery time—most patients return to normal activities in 1–2 days
- Effective results with structured diet and lifestyle support
- Helps establish healthier eating habits for long-term success
What to Expect During the Gastric Balloon Procedure
At Houston Surgical Weight Loss, Dr. Wadiwala uses advanced, minimally invasive endoscopic techniques.
Step-by-step process:
- A deflated silicone balloon is gently placed into your stomach through your mouth using an endoscope.
- Once in place, the balloon is filled with a sterile saline solution.
- The balloon partially fills your stomach, leaving less room for food.
Because this procedure is incision-free and performed under sedation:
- It typically takes 20–30 minutes
- Patients go home the same day
- Recovery is fast, with minimal discomfort
Recovery After Gastric Balloon Surgery
Recovery from gastric balloon surgery is generally easier compared to surgical weight loss options.
What to expect:
- Mild nausea or stomach cramping for a few days as your body adjusts
- Gradual return to normal diet, starting with liquids
- Most patients resume work and daily activities within a few days
- Regular follow-ups to monitor weight loss progress and make lifestyle adjustments
Since the balloon is temporary:
- It is usually removed after 6–12 months
- Healthy eating and lifestyle changes are key to maintaining long-term results
- Special dietary phases (liquid → pureed → soft → regular foods)
Managing Your Gastric Balloon
One of the main advantages of gastric balloon surgery is that it acts as a training tool for portion control and mindful eating.
- The balloon is removed after your treatment period (6–12 months)
- Patients continue with diet, exercise, and behavioral strategies learned during treatment
- Ongoing support from Dr. Wadiwala and his team ensures lasting weight management
Is Gastric Balloon Surgery Right for You?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have a BMI between 30 and 40
- Have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone
- Prefer a non-surgical, temporary weight loss option
- Are committed to lifestyle changes that promote long-term health
During your consultation, Dr. Wadiwala will review your medical history and goals to determine if gastric balloon surgery is the best option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does gastric balloon surgery help with weight loss?
The balloon reduces available stomach space, helping you feel full faster and encouraging smaller meal portions.
Is gastric balloon surgery safe?
Yes. It’s FDA-approved, incision-free, and considered one of the safest weight loss procedures available.
How long does the balloon stay in place?
Typically, the balloon is removed after 6–12 months.
Will I need time off work?
Most patients resume work and normal activities within 2–3 days.
What happens after the balloon is removed?
You’ll continue following your nutrition and lifestyle plan to maintain long-term weight loss.