What is allurion gastric balloon?

Allurion gastric balloon with medical tools and gloves
Medically Reviewed
Ashwini Gupta
Team Lead - Health Coach
December 17, 2024


The Allurion gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss solution designed to assist individuals struggling with obesity. It involves placing a soft, inflatable balloon in the stomach, which helps create a sensation of fullness. The balloon is filled with saline and remains in the stomach for about six months, providing a tool for patients to manage their eating habits.

One of the key aspects of the Allurion gastric balloon is its simplicity and ease of use. Unlike traditional weight loss surgeries, this balloon can be placed without the need for general anesthesia. Through a quick outpatient procedure, a healthcare provider uses an endoscope to place the deflated balloon in the stomach. Once in place, the balloon is filled and then left to expand, ultimately limiting the stomach's capacity to hold food.

The primary purpose of this device in weight loss management is to support individuals in achieving their weight loss goals while fostering healthier eating patterns. It’s important for patients to understand that the Allurion gastric balloon is not a standalone solution; rather, it is most effective when combined with a balanced diet and lifestyle changes. For those ready to take control of their weight, the Allurion gastric balloon offers a promising starting point.

How the Allurion Gastric Balloon Works

The Allurion gastric balloon is a non-surgical, minimally invasive weight loss solution designed to assist patients in managing their weight effectively. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the Allurion Gastric Balloon works:

  1. Ingestion of Capsule: The first step is ingesting the capsule that contains the deflated balloon.

  2. Balloon Inflation: Once the capsule is swallowed, it travels down the esophagus and into the stomach. The balloon is inflated using a catheter connected to a saline solution.

  3. Stomach Volume Reduction: The inflated balloon occupies space in the stomach, reducing its capacity, which helps patients feel full with smaller amounts of food.

  4. Gradual Weight Loss: With the balloon in place for approximately 4 months, the person will lose weight due to reduced food intake.

  5. Expulsion of the Balloon: After 4 months, the balloon naturally deflates and is passed through the digestive system.

Who Is a Candidate for the Allurion Gastric Balloon?

The Allurion Balloon is designed for individuals with a BMI of 35 above (conditional) and 40 or above (unconditional), and it is particularly effective for those who are struggling with weight loss through traditional methods. It is suitable for individuals who:

"The Allurion gastric balloon is a powerful tool for weight loss, helping individuals control their appetite and make lasting lifestyle changes. It's not a quick fix, but a step toward healthier habits and sustainable weight management." recommends Health Coach Ashwini Gupta (Post graduation clinical nutrition & food dietetics)

Benefits of the Allurion Gastric Balloon

The Allurion Gastric Balloon offers several benefits over traditional weight-loss treatments. Here are the key advantages:

Benefit

Description

Non-Surgical

Unlike traditional gastric bypass or sleeve surgery, no cuts or stitches are involved.

Temporary

The balloon stays in place for only 4 months, allowing the body to return to its natural state after use.

Minimal Downtime

Patients can resume their normal activities quickly after the procedure, with minimal disruption.

Safe and Effective

It has been clinically proven to help individuals lose significant weight without surgery.

No Long-Term Commitment

Since the balloon is temporary, individuals don’t need to commit to long-term solutions.

What to Expect During the Allurion Balloon Procedure

The Allurion Gastric Balloon procedure is designed to be simple and minimally invasive. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Consultation: Your doctor will assess your weight-loss goals and overall health. If you are a suitable candidate, they will guide you through the process.

  2. Capsule Ingestion: The balloon comes in the form of a swallowable capsule. You will take the capsule with a small amount of water.

  3. Balloon Inflation: The balloon is inflated via a catheter inserted through your mouth into your stomach. This process takes about 20-30 minutes.

  4. Recovery: There is minimal recovery time, and most patients can go back to their normal routine within 1-2 days.

Allurion Gastric Balloon vs. Other Weight Loss Solutions

Weight Loss Solution

Procedure

Duration

Invasiveness

Maintenance

Allurion Gastric Balloon

Swallowable balloon, inflated in the stomach

4 months

Non-surgical, minimally invasive

Requires lifestyle changes in diet & exercise

Gastric Bypass Surgery

Surgical removal of part of the stomach & intestine

Permanent

Highly invasive, requires anesthesia

Ongoing lifestyle changes; potential complications

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Surgical removal of a portion of the stomach

Permanent

Highly invasive

Long-term diet changes and regular follow-ups

Diet Pills

Oral medications

Ongoing until discontinued

Non-invasive

Long-term use; risk of side effects

Liposuction

Surgical fat removal

Permanent (if maintained)

Invasive, requires anesthesia

Requires maintenance of weight post-surgery

Offering by Elevate Now

Allurion Gastric Balloon Program

Why choose Elevate Now

  1. Diagnosis: We offer comprehensive blood tests covering over 80 weight-loss-related factors, conducted through convenient at-home sample collection by accredited labs.

  2. Expert Medical Guidance: Our team, led by Dr. Neeta Deshpande, includes specialists in endocrinology and diabetes, ensuring safe and effective weight loss.

  3. Tailored Weight Loss Medications: We provide personalized GLP-1 protocols and medications like appetite suppressants, fat blockers, and SGLT-2 inhibitors, suited to the Indian diet.

  4. Certified Human Coaches: Our coaches offer personalized support in nutrition, fitness, sleep, and stress management, customized to your local preferences and language.

  5. Affordable, Results-Driven Solutions: We focus on cost-effective, tailored interventions to provide excellent service and results at accessible prices.

Summary

The Allurion gastric balloon stands out as an innovative tool for those seeking assistance in their weight loss journey. This non-surgical solution effectively promotes a reduced calorie intake by occupying space within the stomach, which encourages a feeling of fullness.

It's clear that many patients have experienced significant weight loss and improved overall health after using the balloon. However, it's important for potential candidates to understand that the gastric balloon is just one aspect of a comprehensive weight loss plan. For optimal results, patients should couple the balloon procedure with a structured diet and lifestyle changes.

Moreover, consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial to determine if the Allurion gastric balloon is suitable for individual health conditions and weight loss goals. Factors such as medical history and current health status play key roles in this decision-making process. Ultimately, when approached with careful planning and commitment, the Allurion gastric balloon can be a valuable tool in achieving lasting weight loss.

FAQs

1. Is the Allurion Gastric Balloon a permanent solution for weight loss?

No, the balloon is temporary and stays in the stomach for approximately 4 months. Weight loss is achieved through portion control and behavioral changes during this time.

2. How much weight can I lose with the Allurion Gastric Balloon?

Patients can expect to lose between 10% to 15% of their total body weight within the 4-month duration of the balloon.

3. Is the procedure painful?

The procedure itself is minimally invasive and typically does not involve significant pain. Some mild discomfort and nausea may occur after the balloon is inflated.

4. What happens after the 4 months?

The balloon deflates on its own and is naturally passed through the digestive system. Your doctor will monitor your progress and support you in maintaining your weight loss.

5. Can I eat normally with the Allurion Gastric Balloon?

You will need to adjust your eating habits to smaller, more frequent meals due to the reduced stomach capacity. A healthy diet and exercise plan will be essential for success.

References

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