Intragastric Balloon

An intragastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss device placed in the stomach to take up space, helping patients feel full with smaller meals. It’s a temporary option to aid weight loss before considering more permanent solutions.

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What is Intragastric Balloon?

An intragastric balloon is an inflatable medical weight loss device that is temporarily placed into the stomach of patients who are overweight or obese. The weight loss mechanism of intragastric balloon therapy is restrictive. This helps you lose weight by limiting how much you can eat and making you feel fuller faster. Another possible mechanism of action that may also contribute to weight loss is by delaying gastric emptying. The intragastric balloon procedure may be an option if diet and exercise have been unsuccessful and surgery is not an option.

Like other weight-loss procedures, an intragastric balloon requires commitment to a healthier lifestyle. You need to make permanent healthy changes to your diet and get regular exercise to help ensure the long-term success of the procedure. There are a number of different intra-gastric balloons available worldwide. Most intragastric balloons are placed via endoscopy and will require sedation.

A new ‘swallowable balloon’ – The Elipse Intragastric Balloon developed by Allurion represents an innovative option for weight loss that does not require surgery, endoscopy or anesthesia. The Elipse was launched in Malaysia in May 2020 and the 1st patient who underwent the procedure in Malaysia and the Asia Pacific Region.

How Does Intragastric Balloon Works?

Preparation:
- You’ll undergo a medical evaluation to ensure you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
- Fasting is usually required for several hours before the procedure.
Sedation:
- The procedure is typically done under mild sedation or local anesthesia to ensure comfort.
- You may also receive a mild sedative to help you relax.
Balloon Insertion:
- A flexible tube (endoscope) is inserted through your mouth and down into the stomach.
- The deflated balloon is passed through the tube into your stomach.
Balloon Inflation:
- Once in place, the balloon is inflated with saline (a sterile salt solution) to fill up space in your stomach.
- The balloon is usually inflated to about the size of a grapefruit.
Completion:
- After inflation, the endoscope is removed, and the procedure is complete.
- The balloon remains in your stomach for 6 months to help you feel fuller with smaller meals.
Recovery:
- The procedure is minimally invasive, so recovery time is usually short.
- You may experience some discomfort, nausea, or bloating initially, but these side effects often resolve in a few days.
Post-Procedure Care:
- You’ll follow a specific diet plan to adjust to the balloon and aid in weight loss.
- After 6 months, the balloon is removed via a similar endoscopic procedure.

This procedure is generally safe and helps patients with weight loss by promoting portion control.

The Elipse Balloon

The Elipse balloon is a non-surgical weight loss solution that comes in a vegan capsule, which is swallowed in the clinic. Once in the stomach, the balloon is filled with up to 550ml of liquid. After confirming its position with an X-ray, the catheter is removed, and the patient can go home. After about 4 months, the balloon deflates and naturally passes through the digestive system.

This option is suitable for individuals aged 18-65 with a BMI over 24, who have struggled with previous weight loss methods and can follow the Elipse program. A study of 1770 patients showed the balloon’s safety and effectiveness, with a mean weight loss of 14.2% and a 4.9-point BMI reduction after 4 months. Most patients maintained 72% of their weight loss 12 months after the balloon was excreted.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does an intragastric balloon cost?

An intragastric balloon typically costs between MYR 12,000 to MYR 20,000, depending on the clinic and the type of balloon used.

2. How much does it cost to get a gastric balloon fitted?

The cost to get a gastric balloon fitted ranges from MYR 12,000 to MYR 20,000. This price usually includes the procedure, consultation fees, and some follow-up appointments.

3. How much does a balloon treatment cost?

A complete balloon treatment, including the initial procedure and follow-up services, can cost between MYR 12,000 to MYR 25,000, depending on the clinic and the duration of the treatment.

4. How much weight can you lose with a 12-month gastric balloon?

With a 12-month gastric balloon, patients can typically expect to lose between 10% to 25% of their starting body weight, depending on their adherence to a prescribed diet and lifestyle changes.