Choose a gastric balloon with the whole program in view.
JourneyLite offers Allurion, Spatz3, and ORBERA gastric balloon programs—three temporary, non-surgical approaches paired with medical oversight, nutrition guidance, and a plan for life after the balloon.
Three balloon paths—one coordinated JourneyLite program
A gastric balloon is not bariatric surgery. It is a temporary device that occupies space in the stomach and can help selected patients feel full with smaller portions. It does not permanently change the stomach or intestine, but it still requires medical screening, preparation, follow-up, and a long-term weight-management plan.
The best option depends on the current FDA labeling for each device, your age and BMI, prior stomach or esophageal procedures, anatomy, medical history, medication use, travel needs, and preferences about endoscopy or sedation. A consultation is the place to compare those factors—not simply to choose the newest device.
Compare JourneyLite’s gastric balloon options
Allurion swallowable balloon
The capsule is swallowed and its position is confirmed with X-ray before filling. Routine placement does not use endoscopy or anesthesia, and the balloon is designed to deflate and pass naturally after a variable stay averaging about four months. Endoscopic or surgical intervention can still be necessary if a problem occurs.
Explore AllurionSpatz3 adjustable balloon
Spatz3 is placed and removed endoscopically with sedation. Its volume can be adjusted during treatment, which requires another endoscopy. Current FDA labeling permits a maximum placement period of eight months for eligible adults.
Review current pricingORBERA intragastric balloon
ORBERA is a saline-filled balloon placed and removed endoscopically with sedation. Current FDA labeling permits a maximum six-month placement period and pairs the device with supervised diet and behavior support.
Review current pricingA gastric-balloon program shaped by clinical research and early adoption
Dr. Trace Curry and JourneyLite have helped advance gastric-balloon care through participation in multiple FDA pre-approval and post-approval studies across different generations of balloon technology. Dr. Curry served as a Cincinnati principal investigator in post-approval study programs and coauthored multicenter research on real-world balloon safety, outcomes, and aftercare. In 2026, Dr. Curry and the JourneyLite team also performed the first commercial Allurion balloon placements in the United States after FDA approval. This experience informs careful device selection and follow-up; it does not mean that every balloon is right for every patient.
What the JourneyLite gastric balloon pathway includes
Compare fit and eligibility
The team reviews your goals, BMI, age, health history, prior procedures, anatomy, medications, and the current indications and contraindications for each available device.
Prepare for placement
You receive device-specific diet, medication, transportation, and procedure instructions, including whether endoscopy, sedation, or X-ray confirmation is part of your plan.
Navigate the adjustment period
Early nausea, vomiting, reflux, cramping, or discomfort can occur. Follow the prescribed medication, hydration, nutrition, and contact plan, and report concerning symptoms promptly.
Build the maintenance plan
Follow-up focuses on eating patterns, activity, behavior, and the next treatment decision so the plan continues after the balloon is removed or passes.
Request a gastric balloon consultation
Send a secure request and the JourneyLite team can help you compare current Allurion, Spatz3, and ORBERA availability, candidacy, pricing, and next steps.
Do not use this form for urgent symptoms. Call your clinical team immediately for severe or worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, abdominal swelling, trouble breathing, chest pain, or inability to keep fluids down. Call 911 for an emergency.
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FDA device records and published research
These records support the device-specific details and research history summarized on this page. Current device labeling and your clinician’s individualized instructions take priority.
Answers before your next step
Is a gastric balloon surgery?
No. Gastric balloons use no surgical incisions and do not permanently change the stomach or intestine. Spatz3 and ORBERA use endoscopy for placement and removal; Allurion is swallowed as a capsule and typically does not require routine endoscopy or anesthesia.
Which gastric balloons does JourneyLite offer?
JourneyLite currently offers Allurion, Spatz3, and ORBERA programs, subject to device availability and individual eligibility. Each has a different placement method, treatment period, labeling, and follow-up pathway.
What BMI qualifies for a gastric balloon?
Eligibility is device-specific. Current U.S. labeling generally includes selected adults with BMI 30 to 40, while Spatz3 also has an indication for certain adults with BMI 30 to 34.9 and a major obesity-related condition. Age limits, prior procedures, anatomy, health conditions, and other contraindications also apply.
How long does a gastric balloon stay in place?
It depends on the device. Allurion has a variable residence time averaging about 15 weeks under current FDA labeling. ORBERA has a maximum placement period of six months, and Spatz3 has a maximum placement period of eight months.
How much weight will I lose with a gastric balloon?
Results vary by device, starting weight, biology, tolerance, follow-up, and engagement with the nutrition and behavior plan. A balloon is a temporary treatment tool, not a guarantee of a specific number of pounds or permanent weight loss.
What are the most common side effects?
Nausea, vomiting, reflux, abdominal discomfort, cramping, and difficulty maintaining hydration are common early concerns. Some patients cannot tolerate the device and need adjustment or early removal, depending on the balloon.
What serious risks should I understand?
Serious complications can include ulceration, balloon deflation or migration, obstruction, pancreatitis, perforation, aspiration, bleeding, or the need for urgent endoscopic or surgical treatment. Your clinician should review the device-specific risks, contraindications, and warning signs before treatment.
Does insurance cover gastric balloon treatment?
Many gastric balloon programs are self-pay, although benefits vary. JourneyLite can explain current package pricing and financing options before you commit to treatment.
