The balloon is introduced into the stomach through the mouth without the need for surgery. The physician conducts an initial examination of the stomach using an endoscopic camera. If no abnormalities are identified, the physician proceeds with placement of the balloon through the mouth, down the esophagus and into the stomach. The balloon is made of a soft and pliable silicone elastomer material and is inserted while in its smallest, deflated form. The passage of the deflated balloon is made easier with the help of anaesthetic applied topically to numb the throat area. Patients may receive medication to enhance sedation and reduce anxiety during the procedure. Patients do not require general anaesthesia or overnight hospitalization.

The gastric balloon system can be left in the stomach for six months before it has to be removed. Longer periods of use are not recommended because over time the acidic content of the stomach will weaken the balloon material and cause the balloon to deflate. Should the physician recommend use of the balloon for longer than six months, it is necessary that the balloon be replaced with a new one when the six-month interval has been met.

The balloon is normally removed in the same way it was placed, via the esophagus and mouth. Prior to removal, our gastric balloon Toronto / Mississauga patients are given sedation, and a topical anesthetic is applied to numb the throat. Using an endoscopic camera, the physician will introduce a catheter through the mouth and into the stomach. The balloon will then be punctured and deflated. Once the balloon is deflated it can be grasped and removed.

This procedure usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes and should be painless. Patients will likely feel some discomfort or pressure as the balloon is withdrawn. Pain killers or analgesics are not required. Once the withdrawal is completed, patients will be monitored for a short time in the clinic and then can be discharged home.

Advice after gastric balloon removal:

• Eat slowly and chew food thoroughly

• Divide food intake into small amounts and use small plates

• Stop eating if you feel acid reflux or heartburn

• Plan to have three meals a day

• Avoid snacking

• Drink at least one and a half litres of water every day

• Do not drink and eat at the same time

• Avoid high calorie beverages such as carbonated drinks and alcohol

• Do not eat for two hours before going to bed

• Continue to increase your daily physical activity

• Continue regular meetings with your dietary counselor