Life after gastric balloon removal isn’t as scary as some people think. With portion control and a positive attitude, people can effectively lose weight! Keep reading to discover what to expect following removal.
The Breakdown of Gastric Balloons
A gastric balloon is a nonsurgical solution for weight loss. The balloon is a removable device placed inside the stomach. Patients swallow and capsule (the balloon), and then doctors inflate it to reinforce portion control. This weight loss option is simple, non-invasive, and short-term. In fact, the advantage of gastric balloons for weight loss is that they’re temporary. The balloon remains inside the stomach for up to six months. Afterward, patients must follow a healthy, portion-controlled diet to maintain results.
The Removal Procedure
At the six-month mark, doctors remove the gastric balloon from the patient’s stomach. So 24 to 48 hours before the procedure, patients shouldn’t eat food. Additionally, 12 hours before the procedure, patients shouldn’t eat or drink.
Like insertion, the balloon must exit the stomach through the mouth (and food may induce vomiting). During the process, the doctor will deflate the balloon and remove it through the mouth. The entire procedure takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Slight stomach discomfort and nausea may occur, but these symptoms are mild and temporary.
Navigating Life After Gastric Balloon Removal
Life after gastric balloon removal differs for every patient. The stomach capacity returns to its previous size. Without the reinforced portion control tool (gastric balloon), patients can handle bigger meal sizes. However, portion control is still a critical factor for maintaining results. While the balloon is inside the stomach, people typically lose 20 to 50 pounds because they eat less. So it’s important to stick with a calorie deficit to continuously lose weight.
Is Weight Regain Possible?
The stomach capacity returns to its previous size after gastric balloon removal. With the extra room, patients can eat large portions and meals. And without careful monitoring, weight gain is possible. Fortunately, bariatric doctors suggest a weight management program to help patients maintain results or continue progress.
Beneficial Tips
To maintain results and live a healthy lifestyle, it’s essential to pre-portion healthy meals. This prevents you from eating too much (or too little). Staying hydrated and drinking water is also important throughout the day because water prevents dehydration and stomach cramps. For additional help, patients can join weight loss groups to connect with people and learn tips for post-gastric balloon life!
