Shedding pounds can be a difficult task, but for some people, a unique treatment called the Obalon Intragastric Balloon weight loss procedure can help jump-start the process.
The procedure utilizes three capsules – each containing a special balloon – that you’ll swallow over the course of several months. They’re removed six months after you swallow the first, and during this time, you’ll work with your doctor on a diet and exercise program to help you continue to lose weight.
Why shouldn’t you just use diet and exercise?
The intragastric balloon is a useful tool to help jump-start your weight loss if exercise and diet alone aren’t doing the trick. This weight loss procedure works because as the balloons take up space in your stomach, you’ll feel full faster.
Following a healthy diet and exercise program is an important part of the Obalon procedure, but you’ll have added help from the balloons and your doctor’s counseling, which can make all the difference between a weight loss plan that doesn’t succeed in the long run and one that does.
If you qualify for the Obalon procedure in San Antonio, Texas, you’ll need to have a significant amount of weight to lose. The procedure can help you get – and stay – on the right track, provided you follow the program.
Who is a good candidate for the Obalon weight loss procedure?
The Obalon Intragastric Balloon system is appropriate for patients 22 years of age and older who have a body mass index (BMI) from 30 to 40. Obesity is generally defined as having a BMI of at least 30, so the procedure is suitable for patients who have a significant amount of weight to lose.
You’ll need to be willing to commit to a six-month treatment program and modify your lifestyle to include a diet and exercise plan.
You’ll also need to make a financial commitment, as the procedure usually costs between $6,000 and $9,000 for placement and removal of the balloons, as well as nutritional support.
Who shouldn’t have the procedure?
While the Obalon Intragastric Balloon is appropriate for many patients, it’s not for everyone. Talk to your doctor about your overall health, including conditions you currently have or had in the past, medications you take, as well as any surgeries you’ve had.
You shouldn’t have the procedure if one of the following applies to you:
- You have problems swallowing.
- You take any of the following medications on a daily basis: prescription aspirin, anti-inflammatories (such as Advil or Motrin) or anticoagulants (blood thinners).
- You’ve had surgeries or a condition that may have led to a narrowing or blockage of your gastrointestinal tract.
- You’ve had gastric sleeve or lap-band weight loss surgeries.
- You have an untreated H. pylori infection.
- You aren’t able to take proton pump inhibitor medication.
- You’re allergic to products or foods that come from pigs.
- You have an eating disorder.
- You have a history of structural or functional stomach disorders.
- You have to use anti-platelet drugs or other medications that can affect the normal clotting of blood.
- You have a history of bowel system disease, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or Crohn’s disease.
- You’re taking medications at specified hourly intervals, such as anti-seizure or anti-arrhythmic medications.
- You’re taking medications at specified hourly intervals, such as anti-seizure or anti-arrhythmic medications.
- You’re pregnant or nursing.
For more information about whether you’re a good candidate for the Obalon Intragastric Balloon weight loss procedure, contact BMI of Texas.