Obalon Balloon System Specialist

What Is the Obalon Balloon System?

The Obalon Balloon System is the first and only swallowable intragastric balloon system intended for temporary use to promote weight loss in adults. This nonsurgical and fully-reversible device consists of a balloon folded inside of a capsule. This capsule is swallowed by the patient without the need for sedation or anesthesia. Once the balloon reaches the stomach, it is remotely pumped with gas via a microcatheter which is then removed, leaving the lightweight balloon to float in the stomach. The procedure itself usually takes less than 10 minutes and the balloon is about the size of a small orange.

How Does the Obalon Balloon System Work?

Usually, 3 balloons are placed slowly over 3 months to maximize patient tolerability and aid continuous weight loss throughout the 6-month treatment period. At the end of the treatment period, all three balloons are removed via an outpatient endoscopy under light conscious sedation. All balloons have to be removed 6 months after the first balloon is placed. The System helps expedite the weight loss process by taking up space in the patient’s stomach so they eat less. During treatment, patients receive professional diet and exercise guidance to help them develop healthy diet and exercise habits.

Am I a Candidate for the Obalon Balloon System?

Men and women are candidates for the Obalon Balloon System if they have a body mass index (BMI) ranging from 30-40 kg/m2 and are over 22 years of age. The procedure can help patients lose weight but their success is also largely dependent on their ability to commit to a healthy lifestyle. Patients should talk to their physician before undergoing the Obalon Balloon System.

Is the Obalon Balloon System FDA-Approved?

In a large clinical study, the Obalon Balloon System proved to help adults experience significant weight loss. Some of the side effects patients reported consisted of mild abdominal pain and nausea. When patients combined the procedure with a healthy diet and regular exercise, they lost an average of 15 pounds and some patients even lost up to 50 pounds. An average of 89.5% of the weight lost was kept off after one year.