how it works
How the Gastric Balloon Works: A Non-Surgical Weight Loss Treatment
Understanding how the gastric balloon works helps patients determine whether this non-surgical treatment may be the right option for their weight loss journey. The gastric balloon is a minimally invasive medical device placed in the stomach to help patients reduce food intake, feel full sooner, and develop healthier eating habits.
At our Los Angeles practice, Dr. David Davtyan, MD, FACS, FICS, provides comprehensive obesity treatment programs that include gastric balloon therapy alongside surgical and medical weight loss solutions. Dr. Davtyan is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Obesity Medicine and has decades of experience treating obesity and metabolic disease.
Dr. Davtyan received his medical education at the UCLA School of Medicine and completed advanced surgical training at internationally recognized institutions including M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and the John Wayne Cancer Institute. His expertise in minimally invasive procedures allows patients to safely pursue weight loss treatments that fit their health needs.
Patients exploring this treatment may also want to learn more about the gastric balloon procedure and other bariatric surgery options.
What Is a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon is a temporary, soft silicone balloon placed inside the stomach to help patients lose weight without surgery.
The balloon works by:
- Occupying space in the stomach
• Helping patients feel full faster
• Reducing the amount of food consumed during meals
Because the balloon limits stomach capacity, patients naturally eat smaller portions and reduce calorie intake.
Unlike surgical procedures such as gastric sleeve surgery, the gastric balloon does not permanently alter the digestive system.
How the Gastric Balloon Is Placed
The gastric balloon placement procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
The process typically includes:
- The balloon is inserted into the stomach using an endoscope through the mouth.
- Once positioned, the balloon is filled with sterile saline or gas.
- The balloon expands inside the stomach and begins assisting with portion control.
The entire procedure typically takes about 20–30 minutes, and most patients return home the same day.
Patients can learn more about gastric balloon recovery and what to expect after placement.
How the Gastric Balloon Helps Patients Lose Weight
The gastric balloon promotes weight loss through several mechanisms.
Reduced Stomach Capacity
The balloon takes up space in the stomach, leaving less room for food and encouraging smaller meals.
Early Satiety
Patients typically feel full sooner when eating, which helps reduce calorie intake.
Behavioral Change
The treatment period allows patients to develop long-term habits such as portion control and healthier food choices.
These behavioral changes help support long-term weight management even after the balloon is removed.
Patients can explore gastric balloon diet guidelines to understand how eating habits change during treatment.
How Long the Gastric Balloon Stays in the Stomach
Most gastric balloon systems remain in the stomach for approximately six months before removal.
During this time, patients work closely with their medical team to:
- Improve nutrition habits
• Increase physical activity
• Build long-term lifestyle changes
These changes help patients maintain their weight loss after the balloon is removed.
Patients can explore gastric balloon weight loss results to see typical outcomes from treatment.
Types of Gastric Balloon Systems
Several types of gastric balloon systems are available today.
Common systems include:
Each system has unique characteristics, and the most appropriate option depends on the patient’s health profile and weight loss goals.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Gastric Balloon?
Doctors may recommend gastric balloon treatment for individuals who:
- Have a BMI between 30 and 40
• Have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise
• Prefer a non-surgical weight loss solution
Some patients may also use the gastric balloon as a pre-treatment before bariatric surgery to reduce surgical risk.
Patients can learn more about bariatric surgery candidates and determine whether they may qualify for balloon treatment.
Safety and Side Effects
The gastric balloon is generally considered a safe and minimally invasive treatment.
However, some patients may experience temporary side effects during the first week, including:
• Nausea
• Stomach discomfort
• Vomiting
• Temporary digestive changes
Patients can learn more about gastric balloon safety and potential risks before undergoing treatment.
Begin Your Weight Loss Journey
Understanding how the gastric balloon works helps patients make informed decisions about their weight loss options.
A consultation with Dr. David Davtyan allows patients to review their health history, explore treatment options, and determine whether the gastric balloon procedure may be the right solution for achieving sustainable weight loss.
