Gastric Balloon: A Non-Surgical Solution for Weight Loss

Struggling with weight can feel overwhelming, especially when diets and exercise alone don’t give the results you hoped for. Today, many people are turning to gastric balloon treatments; a safe, non-surgical, and effective method for kick-starting weight loss. At Via Premium Travel, we help patients from around the world access world-class obesity treatments in Turkey with comfort, safety, and transparency.

What Is a Gastric Balloon?

A gastric balloon is a soft, silicone medical device that is placed inside the stomach and filled with a sterile liquid or air.

It takes up space in the stomach, helping you:

• Feel full faster
• Eat smaller portions
• Build healthier eating habits

It is a temporary weight-loss tool — usually staying in the stomach for 6–12 months, depending on the balloon type.

Key Benefits

• No surgery required
• No scars or incisions
• Quick procedure (usually 15–20 minutes)
• Fast recovery — same-day return to normal activities
• Helps patients lose 10–25 kg on average, depending on lifestyle changes

How the Procedure Works

Consultation & Assessment: Your doctor will  review your medical history, weight goals, and any existing conditions to determine if a gastric balloon is suitable for you.

Placement (15–20 Minutes): The balloon is inserted through the mouth using an endoscope. Once in the stomach, it is filled with liquid or air. You stay awake but comfortable during the procedure with light sedation.

Recovery: Most patients go home the same day. Mild nausea or cramps in the first 2–3 days is completely normal and usually fades quickly.

Follow-Up Support: Nutritional guidance and regular check-ins help you learn healthier eating habits, ensuring long-term success.

Balloon Removal: When the treatment period ends (6–12 months), the balloon is removed endoscopically; again, a quick, non-surgical process.

Healing Process After a Gastric Balloon: What Patients Can Expect

Although the gastric balloon is a non-surgical procedure, your body still needs time to adjust. Understanding the healing process helps patients feel calmer, more prepared, and more confident during their weight-loss journey.

Day 1–3: Adjustment Phase

These first days are the hardest, but completely normal.

What You May Feel

• Nausea
• Stomach cramps
• Bloating
• Occasional vomiting
• Loss of appetite

These symptoms happen because your stomach is learning to tolerate the new balloon.

What Helps

• Hydration (small sips)
• Anti-nausea medications
• Rest and calm breathing
• Clear liquids only

Most patients feel 70–80% better by Day 3.

Day 4–7: Early Recovery

Your body begins to adapt, and discomfort decreases significantly.

What You May Feel

• Mild nausea
• Quick fullness
• Increased burping or gas

Diet Progression

• Shift from clear liquids → pureed foods
• Very small portions
• Eating slowly

This phase teaches your stomach its new limits.

Week 2–4: Stabilization Phase

By now, the balloon feels “normal” in the stomach.

What Improves

• Appetite becomes steady
• Energy levels rise
• Daily activities feel easier

Diet Progression

• Transition to soft foods
• Introduction of gentle, protein-focused meals
• Start of light exercise (walking)

This is when initial weight loss becomes noticeable.

Month 2–3: Lifestyle Shaping Phase

Your body has fully adjusted to the balloon.

What Happens Now

• Steady, controlled weight loss
• Better eating habits
• Improved portion control
• Reduced cravings

Patients begin to feel:

• Lighter
• More energetic
• More motivated to stay active

This is the most important phase for building long-term healthy habits.

Month 4–6 (or 12): Maintenance Phase

Depending on your balloon type, it stays in for 6–12 months.

Key Changes

• Weight loss stabilizes or continues slowly
• Habits become routine
• Hunger becomes naturally more manageable

Your nutritionist helps you:

• Maintain results
• Prevent overeating
• Build a balanced lifestyle

Balloon Removal & Aftercare

Removal is quick and similar to placement — done endoscopically with mild sedation.

After Removal

• You may feel slightly more hunger in the first week
• Following your eating plan prevents weight regain
• Continued support from your medical team helps keep results long-term

Most patients maintain or continue losing weight if they follow the program.

The healing process after a gastric balloon is smooth, predictable, and short. Discomfort is temporary but the results can be life-changing. With proper guidance, most patients feel completely normal within a week and start enjoying steady, healthy weight loss soon after.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Gastric balloon treatment is ideal for:

• Individuals with a BMI between 27 and 40
• People who want to lose weight without surgery
• Patients motivated to make lifestyle changes
• Those who do not qualify for bariatric surgery

It may not be suitable for people with previous stomach surgeries, severe reflux, or certain gastrointestinal conditions — a medical evaluation is essential.

Types of Gastric Balloons

💧 Liquid-Filled Balloons

• Stay in place for 6 or 12 months
• Provide a strong feeling of fullness

🌬️ Air-Filled Balloons

• Lighter and often more comfortable
• Suitable for patients sensitive to nausea

💊 Swallowable (No Endoscopy) Balloons

• Packaged in a small capsule
• No anesthesia, no endoscopy for placement
• Balloon deflates and passes naturally after ~4 months

Expected Results: How Much Weight Can You Lose?

Most patients lose 10–25% of their total body weight.

The exact number depends on:

• Diet and lifestyle changes
• Balloon type
• Your individual metabolism and habits

The gastric balloon is designed to train your body and mind to adopt healthier, long-term eating patterns, not just temporary weight loss.

Why Choose Via Premium Travel for Gastric Balloon Treatment?

Turkey has become one of the world’s leading destinations for obesity treatments thanks to:

• Experienced bariatric specialists
• Modern, internationally accredited hospitals
• More affordable prices compared to the UK, US, and EU
• All-inclusive medical travel packages
• Fast appointment scheduling

At Via Premium Travel, we take care of every detail, from airport pickup and hotel arrangements to pre-op consultations and post-treatment care.

A gastric balloon can be the perfect solution if you’re looking for a gentle, non-surgical way to begin your weight-loss journey. It offers real, noticeable results when combined with healthier 

habits and medical guidance.

Ready to take the first step?
We’re here to support you every step of the way,

safely, comfortably, and professionally.