Intragastric Balloon
Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery · Minimally Invasive
Balloon remains in place 6 months; 30 minutes to place/remove
Duration
Outpatient
Setting
There is an initial adjustment period of three to seven days with nausea managed by medication. Dietitian support is provided throughout the six-month placement period to maximize weight loss, the balloon is removed endoscopically after six months, and structured lifestyle changes are needed to maintain weight loss after removal.
Recovery
₹1,00,000+
Cost
📖About Intragastric Balloon
The intragastric balloon is a non-surgical weight-loss procedure in which a soft, deflated silicone balloon is placed in the stomach and then filled with saline, occupying space to promote a feeling of fullness and reduce food intake for a temporary period. It offers a reversible, lower-risk option for patients who do not meet the criteria for bariatric surgery or who wish to lose weight before undergoing a planned surgical procedure to reduce operative risk. Because it is placed and removed endoscopically, no incisions are required and patients typically go home the same day. The balloon is intended as a temporary tool, and long-term success depends heavily on the dietary and lifestyle changes made while it is in place.
Duration
Balloon remains in place 6 months; 30 minutes to place/remove
Setting
Outpatient
Recovery
There is an initial adjustment period of three to seven days with nausea managed by medication. Dietitian support is provided throughout the six-month placement period to maximize weight loss, the balloon is removed endoscopically after six months, and structured lifestyle changes are needed to maintain weight loss after removal.
Cost Range
₹1,00,000 – ₹2,50,000
Specialty
Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery
Success Rate
70-80% achieve meaningful weight loss during placement
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📋Indications — Who Needs This Treatment?
- 1Moderate obesity with a BMI of 27-40 not requiring or not yet eligible for surgery, patients wanting a temporary, reversible weight-loss aid, pre-surgical weight reduction to lower operative risk, patients unable or unwilling to undergo bariatric surgery
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🔬How the Treatment is Performed
- 1Mild sedation is given, and the deflated balloon is passed down the throat into the stomach using a thin tube guided by endoscopy. Once correctly positioned, the balloon is filled with sterile saline solution through the tube, the tube is withdrawn leaving the inflated balloon in the stomach, and it typically remains for approximately six months before being removed endoscopically in a similar manner.
📝Pre-Treatment Preparation
- 1Consult a Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery specialist to confirm suitability for Intragastric Balloon
- 2Complete all pre-treatment investigations as directed — blood tests, imaging, ECG, or specialist clearance
- 3Disclose all current medications, supplements, and allergies to your treating physician
- 4Fast (nil by mouth) for 6–8 hours if the treatment involves anaesthesia or sedation
- 5Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you, especially for procedures requiring sedation
- 6Follow all specific pre-treatment instructions issued by your care team regarding diet or medication changes
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
⚠️Possible Side Effects & Risks
- 1Nausea and vomiting in the first few days after placement, abdominal cramping, acid reflux, rare balloon deflation or migration requiring early removal, gastric ulceration
🩹Recovery & Aftercare
- 1There is an initial adjustment period of three to seven days with nausea managed by medication. Dietitian support is provided throughout the six-month placement period to maximize weight loss, the balloon is removed endoscopically after six months, and structured lifestyle changes are needed to maintain weight loss after removal.
Treatment Journey — What to Expect
Before Treatment
Pre-treatment workup, consent signing, and preparation as instructed by your care team. Baseline tests and imaging completed.
During Treatment
Intragastric Balloon is administered over Balloon remains in place 6 months; 30 minutes to place/remove. Vital signs monitored. Your specialist manages any immediate side effects.
Immediate Post-Treatment
Recovery observation, assessment of initial response, discharge instructions provided. Follow-up appointment scheduled.
Long-term Recovery (There is an initial adjustment period of three to seven days with nausea managed by medication. Dietitian support is provided throughout the six-month placement period to maximize weight loss, the balloon is removed endoscopically after six months, and structured lifestyle changes are needed to maintain weight loss after removal.)
Return to normal activities as tolerated. Monitoring for treatment response and side effects. Ongoing support from your specialist.
Intragastric Balloon Cost in India (2024–25)
| Component | Govt / Budget | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist Consultation | ₹300 – ₹800 | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 |
| Procedure / Session Cost | ₹2,000 – ₹10,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Medications | ₹500 – ₹3,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Follow-up & Monitoring | ₹300 – ₹1,000 | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Rehabilitation / Aftercare | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹25,000 |
* Estimates for India 2024–25. CGHS / Ayushman Bharat may cover eligible treatments. Individual costs vary by hospital, city, and complexity.
Treatment Outcomes
Intragastric Balloon has a documented success rate of 70-80% achieve meaningful weight loss during placement when performed by qualified specialists at accredited facilities. Individual outcomes vary based on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Intragastric Balloon?+
The intragastric balloon is a non-surgical weight-loss procedure in which a soft, deflated silicone balloon is placed in the stomach and then filled with saline, occupying space to promote a feeling of fullness and reduce food intake for a temporary period. It offers a reversible, lower-risk option for patients who do not meet the criteria for bariatric surgery or who wish to lose weight before undergoing a planned surgical procedure to reduce operative risk. Because it is placed and removed endoscopically, no incisions are required and patients typically go home the same day. The balloon is intended as a temporary tool, and long-term success depends heavily on the dietary and lifestyle changes made while it is in place.
Who is a candidate for Intragastric Balloon?+
Intragastric Balloon is recommended for patients diagnosed with specific conditions where other approaches have been insufficient. Your Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery specialist will assess your suitability based on your diagnosis, health history, and treatment goals.
How long does Intragastric Balloon take?+
The typical duration is Balloon remains in place 6 months; 30 minutes to place/remove. This may vary based on the complexity of your case and individual response to treatment.
What is the recovery time after Intragastric Balloon?+
Recovery typically takes There is an initial adjustment period of three to seven days with nausea managed by medication. Dietitian support is provided throughout the six-month placement period to maximize weight loss, the balloon is removed endoscopically after six months, and structured lifestyle changes are needed to maintain weight loss after removal.. Your care team will provide specific instructions based on your response and overall health.
What are the risks or side effects of Intragastric Balloon?+
Side effects vary by individual and are detailed in the section above. Your specialist will discuss all risks and benefits with you before treatment begins. Serious adverse effects are uncommon but are part of the informed consent process.
What is the success rate of Intragastric Balloon?+
Intragastric Balloon has a documented success rate of 70-80% achieve meaningful weight loss during placement at accredited facilities. Outcomes depend on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.
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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified specialist before deciding on any treatment. In emergencies, call 112.