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The Obalon Balloon System is an effective weight loss alternative for people who either don’t want or don’t qualify for weight loss surgery. Please note that the Obalon Balloon System is only offered in some gastroenterologists. FIND A GASTROENTEROLOGIST NEAR YOU
What Is the Obalon Balloon System?
The Obalon Balloon System is the first and only FDA-approved, swallowable balloon system designed to aid in weight loss. It offers a non-surgical approach for patients looking to lose weight and improve their health. The system involves placing a series of up to three lightweight, gas-filled balloons in the stomach over a period of three months, allowing for gradual adjustment and maximizing patient comfort.
The treatment lasts for a total of six months and is paired with a comprehensive, professionally supervised nutrition and exercise program to help patients achieve sustainable, long-term weight loss.
Key Benefits of the Obalon Balloon System
- Convenient and Non-Surgical Placement: The balloons are swallowed in capsule form and do not require sedation or endoscopic procedures for placement, making it a quick and easy process for patients.
- Safe and Effective: The Obalon system has been shown to be safe, with most reported side effects being mild, such as temporary abdominal discomfort and nausea. Serious side effects occurred in less than 0.3% of patients during clinical trials.
- Supports Progressive Weight Loss: The step-by-step balloon placement helps the body adjust, reducing the risk of side effects and supporting gradual weight loss. The system is most effective when combined with a moderate-intensity lifestyle modification program, including a tailored diet and exercise plan.
The Obalon Balloon System is an excellent option for patients seeking a non-surgical, less invasive approach to weight loss, providing a supportive pathway for achieving healthier weight goals.
Who Is a Candidate for the Obalon Balloon System?
The Obalon Balloon System is designed for adults who are looking for a non-surgical approach to weight loss. You may be a good candidate if you meet the following criteria:
- Body Mass Index (BMI): You should have a BMI between 30 and 40 kg/m², which generally falls into the category of moderate obesity. This system is ideal for patients who need assistance in losing weight but are not eligible or ready for more invasive procedures like bariatric surgery.
- Age Requirement: The Obalon Balloon System is approved for use in adults aged 22 years and older.
- Commitment to a Comprehensive Program: Successful weight loss with the Obalon Balloon System requires a 12-month commitment. This includes:
- Initial Placement Phase: The program starts with the gradual placement of up to three Obalon balloons in your stomach over a period of three months. The balloons remain in place for up to six months to help you feel fuller and eat less.
- Lifestyle Modification: During the time you have the balloons, you will participate in a medically supervised diet and exercise program. This is designed to help you develop healthy habits that continue even after the balloons are removed.
- Follow-Up Phase: After the balloons are removed, you will continue to follow the nutrition and exercise plan for an additional six months to help maintain your weight loss.
The Obalon Balloon System is intended for patients who are ready to make a commitment to lifestyle changes and follow a structured plan for long-term weight management. It is not suitable for everyone, so it’s important to discuss your medical history and weight loss goals with your healthcare provider to determine if this treatment is right for you.
What Weight Loss Results Can Be Expected with the Obalon Balloon System?
Clinical Study Results
- The Obalon Balloon System has been shown to deliver significant weight loss results for patients who follow the complete program, including balloon placement, dietary guidance, and exercise. In a large clinical study, adults using the Obalon Balloon System achieved clinically meaningful weight loss, demonstrating its effectiveness as a non-surgical weight loss option.
- Clinical Study Results
- On average, patients lost 15% of their total body weight after completing the 6-month treatment period with the Obalon Balloon System, combined with a medically supervised diet and exercise program.
- Many patients experienced a weight loss of 20-50 pounds, depending on their starting weight and commitment to lifestyle changes.
- In addition to total weight loss, patients also saw improvements in body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and overall health markers such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Sustained Results
- The Obalon Balloon System is designed to support long-term weight management. While the balloons are removed after six months, patients who continue to follow the recommended diet and exercise plan often maintain or continue their weight loss for another six months or longer.
- Success with the Obalon Balloon System depends largely on the patient’s commitment to sustained lifestyle changes, including healthy eating habits and regular physical activity.
- Realistic Expectations
- Individual results may vary based on factors such as starting weight, adherence to the program, and overall health. The best outcomes are achieved by patients who actively engage in the 12-month program, which includes continued support even after balloon removal.
- It is important to set realistic goals and work closely with your healthcare provider to track progress and make any necessary adjustments to your weight loss plan.
- The Obalon Balloon System provides a safe and effective path to clinically meaningful weight loss, especially for those who are ready to make lasting changes in their lifestyle.
Sustained Results
- The Obalon Balloon System is designed to support long-term weight management. While the balloons are removed after six months, patients who continue to follow the recommended diet and exercise plan often maintain or continue their weight loss for another six months or longer.
- Success with the Obalon Balloon System depends largely on the patient’s commitment to sustained lifestyle changes, including healthy eating habits and regular physical activity.
Realistic Expectations
- Individual results may vary based on factors such as starting weight, adherence to the program, and overall health. The best outcomes are achieved by patients who actively engage in the 12-month program, which includes continued support even after balloon removal.
- It is important to set realistic goals and work closely with your healthcare provider to track progress and make any necessary adjustments to your weight loss plan.
What Is the Recommended Follow-Up for the Obalon Balloon System?
To achieve the best possible results with the Obalon Balloon System, consistent follow-up care is essential. The follow-up program is designed to provide patients with ongoing support, guidance, and accountability throughout their weight loss journey and beyond.
Regular Follow-Up Appointments
- It is recommended that patients schedule follow-up visits 1-2 times per month. These appointments are crucial for monitoring progress, addressing any concerns, and ensuring adherence to the weight loss plan.
- During these visits, you will meet with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider who will:
- Track your weight measurements and assess changes in body composition.
- Review your dietary intake, including food choices, portion sizes, and overall adherence to the prescribed eating plan.
- Evaluate your physical activity, discussing exercise routines and offering tips to help increase activity levels if needed.
- Make necessary adjustments to your nutrition and exercise plan based on your progress and individual needs.
Ongoing Support and Coaching
- The follow-up program provides a structured environment for patients to receive personalized coaching and feedback, which is a key component in achieving and maintaining long-term weight loss.
- Regular check-ins help patients stay on track, identify potential obstacles, and make proactive changes to their lifestyle habits.
Long-Term Success
- Even after the balloons are removed at the end of the 6-month treatment period, continued follow-up for an additional 6 months is highly recommended. This extended support helps reinforce healthy behaviors and improve the likelihood of maintaining your weight loss.
- The goal of the follow-up care is to guide you towards sustainable lifestyle changes that will support your health and weight management well beyond the treatment period.
By attending regular follow-up visits and actively engaging in the program, patients are more likely to achieve successful, long-lasting weight loss with the Obalon Balloon System.
How Are the Obalon Balloons Removed?
At the end of the 6-month treatment period, the three Obalon balloons are removed during a brief, outpatient procedure. The removal process is straightforward and typically takes about 15-20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Removal Process
- Conscious Sedation: You will receive light, conscious sedation to help you relax and ensure comfort during the procedure. Unlike general anesthesia, conscious sedation allows you to remain awake but in a calm and drowsy state.
- Endoscopic Removal: The removal is performed using an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera. The endoscope is gently inserted through the mouth and into the stomach.
- Deflating the Balloons: Each balloon is carefully deflated and then removed one at a time. The process is safe and efficient, with minimal discomfort for most patients.
- Quick Recovery: Since the procedure is non-surgical and minimally invasive, patients can typically go home shortly after the removal and resume normal activities the same day.
Important Safety Information
- It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s pre-procedure instructions, which may include fasting or avoiding certain medications to ensure a smooth and safe removal process.
- For a complete list of contraindications, risks, and safety information, please refer to the official Obalon website: www.obalon.com/safety-information.
By the end of the treatment period, the Obalon Balloon System aims to help you establish healthier eating habits and achieve sustainable weight loss, setting the foundation for continued success after the balloons are removed.