Beginning a weight loss journey requires determination and perseverance because it can be one of the most challenging experiences you have ever been through. Today, most people are looking for non-surgical weight loss options, and the gastric balloon is one choice that has become more popular.
Some have used a gastric balloon before and were successful in losing weight, but they may be wondering if they can have a second balloon procedure. They may not have lost all the weight they desired before it was time to remove their balloon, or they may have gained some or all of their lost weight back.
Today we are going to talk about the feasibility of having a gastric balloon twice, talk about how gastric balloons work, and provide an overview of the Spatz3 and Orbera gastric balloons that are approved by the FDA for use in the United States.
{{cta_button}}
What Is A Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon is a soft, silicone medical device that looks like a grapefruit-sized balloon, which is placed into your stomach to help you lose weight. The procedure does not require surgery because the balloon is placed through your mouth and esophagus into your stomach using a special tool called an endoscope. Once the balloon is in the right place, it is filled with saline (a saltwater solution) until it expands to be about 5” or so in size.
The balloon takes up space in your stomach, making you feel full even though you are eating much smaller portions.
How Does A Gastric Balloon Work?
The balloon helps you lose weight because it takes up a significant amount of space in your stomach, so you do not feel hungry as often, and eating just a little fills you up faster during meals.
Also, the presence of the balloon in your stomach slows down the time it takes for your stomach to empty, which makes the feeling of fullness last longer.
Gastric Balloons Are Temporary
Gastric balloons are temporary devices and are meant to only remain in your stomach for a limited amount of time, which, depending on the device used, can be anywhere from six to eight months.
Unlike bariatric surgery, there are no permanent changes made to your digestive system when you use a gastric balloon. It is only used as a tool to make it a bit easier for you to develop healthier eating habits and for your body to adjust to eating smaller portions.
Learning Healthy Lifestyle Habits Will Be Essential
While the balloon is in your stomach, you must work on making and implementing healthier lifestyle habits, or you will not be able to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. You need to concentrate on eating a balanced diet, avoiding unhealthy foods, controlling your portion sizes, getting quality sleep, managing stress, staying hydrated, and including regular physical activity in your routine.
The goal is that by the time the balloon is removed, these habits will be a well-established part of your daily routine.
Should You Consider A Second Gastric Balloon Procedure?
Gastric balloons are designed to only remain in your stomach for a specific amount of time. If you have not lost the amount of weight to meet your goals or you have gained weight since your balloon was removed, you will be happy to know that you can have a gastric balloon twice.
Since no changes have been made to your digestive system, as long as you are still in good health and you can tolerate the endoscopic placement and removal procedure, it is possible to use a gastric balloon twice to help you continue or get your weight loss journey back on track.
{{cta_small}}
Benefits Of Having A Gastric Balloon Twice
Gives You More Time To Adjust To Healthy Habits
The first time you use a gastric balloon, it helps you learn and practice healthier eating patterns, but it may not have been long enough for you to make those habits permanent.
Having a second gastric balloon procedure can help reinforce these habits and give you more time to adjust, especially if you found them challenging to maintain after the first balloon was removed.
Additional Weight Loss
If you were unable to reach your weight loss goals during the first balloon placement, a second balloon can give you additional time to reach your desired weight.
Reestablishing Weight Control
If you have regained weight after your first gastric balloon procedure, a second balloon can help you get back on track and reinforce gaining control over your eating habits.
Working with a weight loss professional like Dr. Steven Batash can help you decide whether a second balloon procedure would be beneficial for you. If you have not lost the amount of weight you anticipated with your gastric balloon, a different procedure or strategy may be better for your weight loss journey.
Overview Of Orbera And Spatz3 Gastric Balloons
If you are considering using a gastric balloon and you are located inside of the United States, you will have two choices that have been approved by the FDA: the Orbera and the Spatz3.
Here is a chart that provides an overview of each of these balloons and their benefits.
Deciding to have a second gastric balloon procedure may be a good choice for you because it can often help you continue losing weight or get your weight loss back on track. Since you have already been through the procedure once, you will already understand how it works, what to expect during recovery, and what you need to do to properly use the balloon to your advantage.
Who Can I Talk To About Having A Gastric Balloon Twice?
If you want to achieve sustainable weight loss regardless of the weight loss tools or strategies you use, your lifestyle choices will contribute the most to your success.
Dr. Batash and his team at Batash Endoscopic Weight Loss Center in New York City offer many different weight loss tools that can help you lose a significant amount of weight without having to undergo surgery. They offer both the Orbera and the Spatz3 adjustable gastric balloon as well as other procedures, prescription weight loss medications, and the ongoing support you need to succeed in lowering your BMI and improving your health.
Get started on your weight loss journey today by setting up a consultation and speaking to one of our weight loss experts. For your convenience, we offer both in-person and virtual consultations. We would love to partner with you to help you achieve sustainable weight loss to improve your health and enhance your quality of life.
{{cta_button}}
