Gastric Balloon for weight loss - modern guide
A gastric balloon guide involves a temporary implant in the stomach to aid weight loss through reduced food intake. After insertion, patients follow a liquid diet for a few days, which gradually progresses to soft foods and then a regular diet. The balloon is typically left in place for up to six months and requires significant lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to be effective.
A gastric balloon is a temporary device placed in the stomach to help control hunger and portion sizes while you work on lifestyle changes. It does not involve surgical incisions and is designed to be removed after several months. This modern guide explains how the therapy works, who might benefit, typical results, and what to know about pricing worldwide. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.
What is the intragastric balloon weight loss procedure?
Most fluid-filled balloons are inserted endoscopically: a clinician guides a deflated silicone balloon into the stomach and then fills it with sterile saline. Placement usually takes 15–30 minutes under mild sedation, and most people return home the same day. Some systems are swallowable capsules that are filled and positioned using imaging, avoiding endoscopy for placement; removal requirements vary by system. Balloons are temporary—commonly six months, though some adjustable models stay up to 12 months. After removal, ongoing nutrition, movement, sleep, and behavior support are essential to maintain results.
How much weight can a person lose with a gastric balloon?
Outcomes vary, but many programs report an average of about 10–15% total body weight loss during six months of balloon therapy, especially when paired with a structured lifestyle program. For example, someone starting at 100 kg might lose roughly 10–15 kg during treatment, with further change depending on adherence after removal. Loss can be smaller or greater based on diet quality, activity, alcohol intake, medications, and underlying conditions. Put simply, how much weight can human lose with a gastric balloon depends on engagement with the comprehensive care plan.
Gastric balloon cost
Pricing differs by country, device type, and clinic. In the United States, typical bundled packages (device, placement, sedation, and removal, plus several months of aftercare) often range from about $6,000 to $9,500. In the United Kingdom, private clinics commonly advertise approximately £2,500 to £5,000. In parts of the European Union, ranges of roughly €3,000 to €6,000 are common. In Australia, many programs fall between AUD $5,000 and $8,000. Packages may include nutritional coaching, follow-ups, and complication coverage; always verify what is and is not included in the bundle offered by local services.
Gastric balloon cost without insurance
Many health plans classify balloons as elective and may not cover them, so out-of-pocket costs are common. When insurance does not apply, clinics may offer financing, staged payments, or discounts for upfront payment. Separate fees can include pre-procedure testing (labs, imaging), anesthesia or sedation, facility charges, removal, or early removal if needed. Some regions allow use of health savings or flexible spending accounts for eligible medical expenses. Ask for a written estimate that itemizes device cost, professional fees, facility fees, follow-up visits, and aftercare duration to compare offers in your area.
Below is a practical pricing snapshot showing real products and typical bundle estimates from manufacturers that supply clinics globally. Availability and inclusion of aftercare vary by region and provider.
| Product/Service | Provider | Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|
| Orbera single balloon (6 months) | Apollo Endosurgery (Boston Scientific) | US: $6,000–$9,000; UK: £2,500–£4,500; EU: €3,000–€6,000 |
| Spatz3 adjustable balloon (up to 12 months) | Spatz Medical | US: $7,000–$10,000; EU: €3,500–€6,500; UK: £3,000–£5,500 |
| Allurion swallowable balloon (Elipse) | Allurion Technologies | EU/UK/Middle East: €3,500–€6,000 or £3,000–£5,500; availability varies by country |
| Endoscopic balloon placement package | Local bariatric clinic | Common bundle (consult, sedation, device, removal, 6–12 months aftercare): $5,000–$9,500 equivalent, depending on region |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
Other weight loss options
A gastric balloon is one tool among several evidence-based approaches. Non-procedural options include comprehensive lifestyle programs led by dietitians and behavior specialists, and in some cases, prescription weight-management medications evaluated by a clinician. Minimally invasive alternatives include endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, which reshapes the stomach with sutures to reduce volume. Surgical options—such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass—generally lead to greater average weight loss but involve operative risks and longer recovery. The right path depends on health status, body mass index, past weight-loss attempts, and access to experienced teams in your area.
In summary, a gastric balloon can help reduce appetite and support meaningful, short-term weight loss while you establish durable habits. Results depend heavily on nutrition, activity, and follow-up care during and after therapy, and pricing varies by device and location. Carefully review inclusion details, safety protocols, and aftercare when comparing local services, and discuss suitability with a qualified clinician.
