Weight loss, by conventional dietary changes and exercise programs is not always successful for patients in achieving their target weight loss goal. For patients who need an extra boost of help in addition to these lifestyle changes without undergoing any permanent changes to their gastrointestinal tract, the gastric balloon may be a good option.
Gastric balloons have been used internationally for many years to help patients lose weight. Multiple modifications and technological enhancements have been made to the balloon to improve its safety profile and effectiveness. The ORBERA® gastric balloon placement is a temporary, non-invasive and reversible procedure in which a balloon is placed endoscopically into the stomach. This soft silicone balloon will occupy space in the stomach and “trick” your stomach into feeling full which will allow you to eat less and feel full longer. These balloons remain in the stomach for about 6 months allowing patients to lose significantly more weight than with just diet and exercise alone and are then removed endoscopically.
What is ORBERA ® Gastric Balloon?
The ORBERA® gastric balloon placement is a temporary, non-invasive and reversible procedure in which a balloon is placed endoscopically into the stomach. This soft silicone balloon will occupy space in the stomach making your stomach feel full faster allowing you to eat less and feel full longer.
Are you a candidate for the ORBERA ® Gastric Balloon ?
To be a candidate, you must be of at least 21 years of age (as authorized by the FDA) with a body mass index (BMI) of at least 30 (calculate your BMI here) and have not been able to lose adequate weight with diet and exercise. ORBERA ® is a great option if you do not want any permanent changes to your gastrointestinal tract and need some extra temporary “help” in losing weight in addition to diet and exercise.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
Estimated weight loss from the ORBERA ® gastric balloon is up to 3x the amount of weight than what would be lost by diet and exercise alone. According to studies, the average amount of weight loss after ORBERA ® gastric balloon placement is 30-50 pounds with some reported to have lost more than 100 pounds. We feel that the placement of the balloon is just the beginning of your weight loss journey as we are committed to giving you the tools you need to maintain your weight loss beyond the time the balloon is in place.
What can I expect after the procedure?
After being closely monitored, you will likely be discharged a few hours after the procedure. You will likely experience symptoms of nausea, bloating and possibly vomiting. These symptoms will usually disappear after your body becomes used to the smaller space in your stomach and you will likely be able to return to work in 2-3 days. There are medications that we will prescribe before and after your procedure to help with these symptoms. Symptoms to be aware of that will require medical attention will be thoroughly discussed at your visit and prior to your procedure. We also offer a 24/7 concierge aftercare service for our patients. This aftercare offers multiple benefits such as individualized meal planning and shopping lists, unlimited texting on weekends and afterhours, therapy and optional counselling with loved ones. We will help you through your recovery while giving you accountability and peace of mind that you are being looked after.
Will I have any dietary or activity restrictions after the procedure?
Yes, now that your stomach has significantly less space due to the balloon, you will not be able to eat the same quantity of food that you did prior to your procedure. You will be given a booklet with dietary recommendations regarding what you should and should not eat for the coming days to weeks after the procedure while your stomach accommodates to its new size. In addition to dietary modifications, we will also assist you in exercise planning with trained experts who will work with you individually to track your progress. These lifestyle changes are aimed to be lifelong to help you maintain the weight loss that you will lose.
Follow-up
Remember, this is not just a one-time visit, but is rather a long-term journey. You will return the next day to receive IV fluids at our infusion center. We will check in at this time about how you are feeling. You will also have scheduled follow up in the office soon after your procedure and then once every couple months until you are scheduled to have the balloon removed 6 months from the date of placement. You will also have access to interactive and personalized lifestyle coaching with a trained professional to provide you with the tools you need in this next chapter of your life.
How much does ORBERA ® cost?
The ORBERA ® procedure costs $8,999. This cost not only covers the procedure but also your journey to wellness consisting of post procedure follow-up appointments and lifestyle coaching/support available to you for up to one year. These procedures are not currently covered by insurance companies. We understand financial limitations can be a barrier to undergoing elective treatments to improve your health. We have finance options available including CareCredit to help you move 4ward in your wellness journey.
*These costs do not reflect any lab work and/or fees as outlined in your consultation.
Out of Town?
We at 4ward Wellness welcome patients from anywhere, and we know it is crucial to have the right accommodation when visiting us. Located 20 minutes from Albany International Airport, 4ward Wellness have partnered with these hotel(s) (Hyperlink). If you wish to stay elsewhere, our friendly staff will help you find accommodation that is suitable for your needs.
When travelling, all patients must have a responsible adult accompanying them. Let us know how we can help.
