Gastric Balloon in Turkey

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Getting a gastric balloon procedure in Turkey is a great solution to assist with weight loss.

  • The intragastric balloon cost is cheaper in Turkey than anywhere else in the world, which allows you to resolve any medical issues you may have, while saving money in the meantime.
  • BIB intragastric balloon systems, or a Bioenteric Intragastric Balloon, is a less invasive method of achieving restriction of gastric intake in obese patients.

What Is a Gastric Balloon Procedure?

A gastric balloon, also known as an intragastric balloon, is a non-surgical method for treating obesity. It is endoscopically inserted into the stomach and acts as a space-filler, allowing only a small part of the stomach to be available for food intake. This leads to the patient being able to consume only small meals since the stomach is quickly filled. The vagus nerve, which runs over the stomach wall, signals the brain earlier that enough food has been consumed, thereby inducing a feeling of satiety sooner​​.

Gastric Balloon Cost

The cost of a gastric balloon ranges from €2500- 2700 depending on the balloon type and the location of the procedure.

Non surgical gastric balloon

The insertion of a gastric balloon only requires an outpatient procedure and is generally not a surgical intervention in a hospital. The treatment takes place under light anesthesia (sedation) and lasts about 30 minutes. A gastroscopy is performed first, followed by the insertion of the empty gastric balloon through a tube that goes through the mouth and esophagus into the stomach, where it is then filled with colored fluid​​.

A gastric balloon is typically suitable for individuals with a BMI between 27 and 40 who have difficulty losing weight with traditional methods. It’s important that the person is willing to adjust their diet and lifestyle, as the gastric balloon is only a temporary solution and must be removed after six to twelve months​​​​.

Who Is A Gastric Balloon Procedure For?

To be eligible for an intragastric balloon, there are several factors that will determine whether or not you are a suitable candidate. We usually only permit patients who have a body mass index (BMI) between 30 and 40, and we will need to know you are willing to commit to a healthier lifestyle following the procedure. You also should not have had any prior stomach or oesophageal procedure, as this can cause complications in the future, if you were to have an intragastric balloon system installed. An intragastric balloon can help with several weight related conditions and illnesses, and vastly improve your quality of life. Ailments an intragastric balloon can help to improve include:

  • Heart disease or stroke
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Obstructive sleep apnoea
  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastric Balloon: The Procedure

  • Prior to your gastric balloon procedure, you will need to be assessed by our specialist team so they can run some tests on you and prepare you for the procedure.
  • You may need to restrict what you eat and drink prior to having the gastric balloon placed in your stomach and may also be asked to start some form of exercise or physical activity regime beforehand, just to make sure you are in the best condition you could possibly be in when it comes to recovery.
  • The gastric balloon procedure itself is usually done as an outpatient procedure, with general anaesthetic administered to ensure as much comfort as possible.
  • One of our specialist surgeons will attach a catheter containing the gastric  balloon down your throat, and into your stomach.
  • We will then advance an endoscope down your throat, in order to visually monitor the procedure, as we begin filling the gastric balloon with saline.
  • Gastric balloon procedure is completed relatively quickly, only taking about 30 minutes in total, and you should be allowed to leave our hospital an hour or two after the procedure is complete, although patients can spend one night at the hospital after the doctor’s evaluation.

Gastric Balloon Side Effects: How Serious?

Common Side Effects: The most frequently reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and discomfort. These symptoms are typically most intense during the first few days following the procedure and usually subside as the body adjusts to the balloon​​. Although rare, serious complications can occur. These include the risk of the balloon bursting, which can lead to the need for emergency procedure. There’s also a risk of the balloon causing a blockage in the digestive system​. However, these risks are low as long as the non-surgical gastric balloon procedure is performed in a professional clinical setting by a physician who is an expert in this field.

Gastric Balloon: Recovery Time

  • Following your non surgical gastric balloon procedure, you can begin the first steps to enjoying the gastric balloon results.
  • You may drink clear liquids, such as water, 6 hours after the gastric balloon procedure, continuing this for the next 2 weeks that follow.
  • Following this, you may begin to eat soft foods for about a week, until week 3, where you can begin enjoying a normal diet once more.
  • The gastric balloon is left in place for 6 months, before being removed with an endoscope.
  • At this point, either a new balloon is reinserted, or the balloon is removed entirely, depending on your personal circumstance.
  • Usually, there are very few side-effects related to this procedure, and you should be able to enjoy the gastric balloon results in no time at all.

What can you eat after gastric balloon procedure?

After undergoing a gastric balloon procedure, patients are typically guided through a gradual dietary progression:

Initial Days (Liquid Diet): Immediately after the procedure, patients are advised to consume a liquid diet, which may include water, clear soups, broth, and vegetable juice (without pulp).

Soft Foods (Days 6-14): Over the next 6-14 days, individuals can transition to soft foods such as soft-cooked eggs, mashed potatoes, flaky fish, minced meat with couscous or mashed potato, omelettes, risottos, thick soups, and stews.

Regular Foods (From Day 15 Onwards): After approximately two weeks, patients can begin reintroducing regular-textured foods. It’s recommended to prioritize protein, followed by vegetables and salads, and finally carbohydrates in their meals.

In addition to dietary considerations, there are specific eating guidelines to follow, including:

  • Eating three regular meals a day without long gaps.
  • Consuming 1.5-2 liters of fluid daily, while avoiding drinking large quantities at once.
  • Limiting alcohol intake to 1-2 glasses on social occasions only.
  • Avoiding high-fat, high-calorie foods, and sugary drinks.
  • Practicing mindful eating by chewing thoroughly, eating slowly, and avoiding simultaneous eating and drinking.

Intragastric Balloon Surgery – FAQs

How much is a gastric balloon procedure?

The cost of a gastric balloon in the UK, for instance, is around £4000-£8000. US prices start from $6000-$10000, but Turkey’s prices are much lower than that. Turkey’s average gastric balloon price is £1999. It is advisable to contact us to arrange a consultation, so we can assess your personal requirements and thoroughly determine the right price for you and your specific needs.

Is a gastric balloon safe?

Yes, a gastric balloon is generally considered a safe and non-surgical weight loss method, especially when administered in a professional clinical setting by experienced medical practitioners. 

How long does a gastric balloon last?

The duration of a gastric balloon varies depending on the specific type of balloon used and the individual’s unique condition. Typically, gastric balloons remain in the stomach for a period of 6 to 12 months. However, this duration should be determined on a case-by-case basis by a healthcare professional.

How painful is a gastric balloon?

The pain associated with a gastric balloon can vary from person to person. The placement of a gastric balloon is considered to be a minimally invasive procedure, which may cause some discomfort or mild pain during and after the placement. The discomfort is generally temporary and can be managed with medications prescribed by healthcare professionals.

Is a gastric balloon a good idea?

The gastric balloon procedure can be considered as a potential option for individuals looking to manage overweight and obesity. When combined with proper nutritional and behavioral management, as well as regular physical activity, it can contribute to weight loss and reduce associated risks such as cardiovascular, metabolic, and musculoskeletal risks.

How much weight can I lose with a gastric balloon?

The amount of weight you will personally lose with an intragastric balloon will depend on your personal circumstance. You could lose 3lbs, or you could lose 25lbs, it all depends on whether you are willing to make personal lifestyle changes in order to assist with a successful procedure. If you are thoroughly committed and apply one or more methods such as diet, sports, and medication, you can easily lose 20lbs. This will also depend on your weight when you get the balloon installed, and how long you have the intragastric balloon installed for. People who apply balloons for periods that extend up to 7-8 months can naturally lose more weight.

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