Trying to lose weight by following a diet and exercise routine but not getting any results can be frustrating. While in such cases, one can always go for weight loss surgeries, invasive bariatric are surgery and irreversible. An alternative to traditional bariatric procedures for patients looking to avoid surgery or for those who are too light for traditional surgery should consider a gastric balloon such as Orbera or Obalon. If you are thinking of either of these minimally invasive procedures, read on to learn all you need to know before going ahead with your decision.

Eligibility for a Gastric Balloon Procedure

Before deciding on the type of balloon procedure, make sure you are eligible for the procedure. If you have a BMI between 30 and 40 and have not been able to reduce weight with exercise and dietary changes, you may be eligible for a gastric balloon procedure. Your weight loss surgeon will access your medical history and may also prescribe some tests to decide whether you are an ideal candidate for a gastric balloon procedure. Patients outside this BMI range can receive a balloon, but would be considered to be off-label.

Obalon vs Orbera: The Differences

Obalon

The Obalon procedure involves swallowing a small pill attached to a very thin tube, which is the deflated Obalon balloon. The doctor will use the tube to fill the balloon with gas, once the pill is placed correctly inside your stomach. The procedure involves swallowing three pills over a period of 3 months, without the need of sedation. This procedure is accomplished in the office with an x-ray and takes about 15 minutes.

Orbera

The Orbera balloon procedure involves the surgeon placing the balloon in your stomach through a tube that goes from your mouth to stomach. Once the balloon is in place, the surgeon will fill it with saline solution send through the tube. You will be under anesthesia during the procedure.

Balloon Removal

Both the balloons may stay up to 6 months in your stomach. You will need to follow a strict diet and exercise regime to maintain weight loss. The removal for both the balloons follows the same procedure. The balloons will be deflated using a tube through your mouth and taken out,  while you are sedated.

Wrap Up

The choice between Obalon and Orbera is not entirely up to you, as your weight loss surgeon will always have the final say. That’s why it is important to consult an experienced weight loss surgeon such as Dr. Kukreja, the leader of DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery in Dallas, Texas. We are a team of reputable weight loss surgeons with years of experience in performing various minimally invasive weight loss procedures including Orbera or Obalon. To schedule an appointment with one of our weight loss surgeons, click here or simply call 469-620-0222.