orbera
Orbera Gastric Balloon: A Non-Surgical Weight Loss Treatment
The Orbera gastric balloon is one of the most widely used non-surgical weight loss treatments available today. This temporary medical device helps patients reduce food intake, control portions, and develop healthier eating habits without undergoing bariatric surgery.
At our Los Angeles practice, Dr. David Davtyan, MD, FACS, FICS, offers Orbera balloon treatment as part of a comprehensive weight management program. Dr. Davtyan is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Obesity Medicine and has extensive experience treating obesity through both surgical and non-surgical approaches.
Dr. Davtyan received his medical training 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 and metabolic medicine allows patients to safely pursue effective weight loss treatments tailored to their individual health needs.
Patients considering balloon therapy may also want to learn more about the overall gastric balloon procedure and other bariatric weight loss treatments.
What Is the Orbera Gastric Balloon?
The Orbera gastric balloon is a soft silicone balloon placed inside the stomach to help patients feel full sooner and eat smaller meals.
Once placed in the stomach, the balloon is filled with sterile saline, allowing it to occupy space and reduce the stomach’s capacity.
The balloon remains in the stomach for approximately six months before being removed.
During this time, patients work with their medical team to build sustainable eating habits and lifestyle changes.
Patients can learn more about how the gastric balloon works.
How the Orbera Balloon Helps With Weight Loss
The Orbera balloon supports weight loss through several mechanisms.
Reduced Stomach Capacity
The balloon takes up space in the stomach, leaving less room for food and helping patients eat smaller portions.
Earlier Fullness
Patients typically feel satisfied sooner during meals, which naturally reduces calorie intake.
Lifestyle Coaching
Orbera treatment programs often include nutritional guidance and lifestyle counseling to support long-term weight loss success.
Patients can learn more about the recommended gastric balloon diet during treatment.
Who Is a Candidate for the Orbera Balloon?
Doctors may recommend the Orbera gastric balloon for patients who:
- Have a BMI between 30 and 40
• Have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise
• Prefer a non-surgical weight loss option
Some patients may also use the balloon as a bridge therapy before bariatric surgery to reduce surgical risks.
Patients can review bariatric surgery candidate guidelines to better understand eligibility.
Orbera Balloon Placement Procedure
The Orbera balloon is placed using a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure.
The process typically involves:
- A flexible endoscope is inserted through the mouth into the stomach.
- The deflated balloon is placed inside the stomach.
- The balloon is filled with saline until it reaches the appropriate size.
The procedure usually takes 20–30 minutes, and patients return home the same day.
Patients can learn more about gastric balloon recovery and what to expect after placement.
Orbera Weight Loss Results
Patients using the Orbera balloon often achieve meaningful weight loss during the treatment period.
Average results may include:
- 10–15% total body weight loss
• Improved portion control
• Reduced hunger
• Healthier eating habits
Patients can explore gastric balloon weight loss results and view bariatric surgery before and after results.
You can also read inspiring bariatric surgery success stories.
Safety and Side Effects
The Orbera gastric balloon is generally considered safe when placed by experienced physicians.
Common temporary side effects during the first week may include:
- Nausea
• Stomach cramps
• Vomiting
• Bloating
These symptoms usually improve within several days as the stomach adjusts to the balloon.
Patients can learn more about gastric balloon safety before deciding on treatment.
Orbera Balloon Removal
The Orbera balloon is typically removed after six months using an endoscopic procedure similar to placement.
During removal:
- The balloon is deflated
• It is carefully removed through the mouth using an endoscope
After removal, maintaining weight loss depends on continuing the healthy lifestyle habits developed during treatment.
Start Your Weight Loss Journey
For patients seeking a non-surgical weight loss solution, the Orbera gastric balloon may provide an effective way to achieve meaningful weight loss and improve overall health.
A consultation with Dr. David Davtyan allows patients to review their medical history, explore treatment options, and determine whether the Orbera balloon or another gastric balloon treatment is the best option for their weight loss goals.
