What is the Orbera® Gastric Balloon?
Orbera® is a removable gastric balloon that is inserted non-surgically through the mouth for weight loss. While only recently FDA approved in the US, it has been available outside the states for several years and has a proven track record. There are numerous other gastric balloons besides Orbera available outside the US, and they all have an excellent safety profile. The FDA approved Orbera with indications to be offered to patients with a BMI of 30-40.
The Orbera Managed Weight Loss System is designed for patients that need to lose 30-60 lbs, which in many cases is enough weight loss to resolve type 2 diabetes. It is a unique device for the treatment of obesity in America as it’s not a diet, not surgery, and not a weight loss pill!
A simple endoscopic procedure is performed to place the Orbera gastric balloon, which is then filled with saline. The balloon takes up space in the stomach and helps you feel full earlier. It also delays gastric emptying which can help to reduce hunger. The Orbera is left in place for up to 6 months to provide the patient with hunger reduction and portion control. Combined with a healthy diet and exercise with a multi-disciplinary team approach, physicians monitor patients closely for weight loss and side effects. After 6 months, the device is removed but the patient remains enrolled in the program for another 6 months to ensure that they have developed healthy eating habits and are exercising regularly. No incisions are required for this procedure!
Reversible, minimally invasive anti-obesity procedures such as Orbera are arming physicians with new weapons to treat Obesity. Excess weight is a leading cause of co-morbidities such as diabetes, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
Learn more by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Trace Curry or Dr. James Augusta in Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, Columbus or Dayton. Virtual telehealth consultations are also available!
