What Is a Gastric Balloon?
While sometimes called gastric balloon surgery, a gastric balloon is actually a non-surgical weight loss option designed for individuals seeking an alternative to traditional bariatric surgeries. It is a temporary weight loss device that is placed in the stomach to occupy space, promoting a feeling of fullness with less food intake and thereby assisting with weight reduction.
This minimally invasive procedure is known by several names, including the intragastric balloon, stomach balloon, or weight loss balloon. No matter how you refer to it, a gastric balloon offers patients the opportunity to kick-start their weight loss journey with significant initial results.
How a Gastric Balloon Works
The gastric balloon is a revolutionary tool for non-surgical weight management. Approved by the FDA for patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30-40, it is neither a diet, a pharmaceutical, nor a surgical procedure. It’s a unique approach that fits well into the lifestyle of those seeking a less invasive yet effective solution for weight control.
A gastric balloon functions by occupying space in the stomach. This limits the amount of food one can eat and creates an early sense of fullness during meals. Additionally, by residing in the stomach, it continuously stimulates the stomach walls, which helps reduce feelings of hunger.
Gastric Balloon Procedure Details and Duration
Many people are looking for solutions to their weight issues that do not involve surgery. Gastric balloons have been in use word-wide for many years, and have an excellent safety profile. Additionally, the procedure does not involve any incisions. Learn how it works below.
Step 1: Consultation and Eligibility
- Determine if the gastric balloon is appropriate based on BMI (30-40) and overall health.
Step 2: Pre-Procedure Preparation
- Undergo a brief pre-procedure assessment to ensure readiness for the balloon placement.
Step 3: Balloon Placement
- A deflated balloon is inserted endoscopically through the mouth and into the stomach.
Step 4: Balloon Inflation
- Once in place, the balloon is filled with a saline solution to the correct size to ensure it occupies the right amount of space in the stomach.
Step 5: Monitoring and Adjustment
- After the procedure, patients are monitored for a short period to ensure stability and comfort.
Step 6: Follow-Up Program
- Patients participate in a 6-month follow-up program involving dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes supported by medical professionals.
Step 7: Balloon Removal
- The gastric balloon is removed in a similar non-surgical, endoscopic procedure after 6- 8 months.
Step 8: Post-Removal Support
- Post-removal, the JourneyLite team will work with you, creating a plan to maintain the weight loss and encourage healthy habits.
Benefits
The gastric balloon is an innovative approach to weight loss, and with FDA approval for the Spatz 3 and Orbera systems, it has become an even more attractive option for those with a BMI of 30-40. Here’s how these systems stand out:
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- Non-Surgical and Minimally Invasive: The balloon is placed via an endoscopic procedure under sedation—no surgery, no incisions, and it involves a faster and easier recovery.
- Customizable Weight Loss with Spatz: Spatz 3 is the only adjustable gastric balloon on the market, allowing for personalized treatment. If a patient experiences intolerance, the volume can be adjusted to alleviate discomfort without removing the balloon. Alternatively, fluid can be added to the balloon to increase its size and improve weight loss.
- Effective weight Loss: Gastric Balloons have been shown to help patients lose an average of 25-50 lbs, with a 40% excess body weight loss. Patients using Orbera lost over three times more weight compared to those with diet and exercise alone.
- Support for Lasting Change: At JourneyLite, this procedure comes with a comprehensive follow-up program to support the patient’s journey, fostering sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term weight management.
- Proven Safety Record: Gastric balloons have been used worldwide for many years with an excellent safety profile.>
- Health Benefits Beyond Weight Loss: Weight loss with gastric balloons is associated with improvements in obesity-related health issues, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, and high cholesterol.
Risks
As with any medical intervention, the gastric balloon procedure comes with potential risks and side effects. While the gastric balloon has a strong safety profile, it’s important to consider the following:
- Nutritional Deficiency: Since the gastric balloon limits food intake, there’s a potential risk of not getting enough nutrients from the reduced food portions. At JourneyLite, experienced dietitians are available to work closely with patients, ensuring they receive a well-balanced diet tailored to their new dietary needs.
- Tolerance Issues: Some individuals may experience discomfort or intolerance to the balloon’s presence, leading to nausea or vomiting. The Spatz balloon’s adjustable nature allows for modifications in size to improve tolerance.
- Perforation: Any time an instrument or device is passed down the esophagus, there is a very small risk of perforation of either the esophagus or stomach. Although we have not experienced this complication at JourneyLite, there have been some reports of it occurring.
- Weight Regain: As with any weight loss treatment, there is a risk of regaining weight after the balloon is removed, particularly if long-term lifestyle changes are not maintained.
Types of Gastric Balloons
Orbera
What it is: The Orbera Intra-Gastric Balloon is an intra-gastric balloon that helps with portion size, fullness, and hunger. It’s a soft, flexible, expandable device that is placed non-surgically with an endoscopy under sedation. An intensive follow-up program for the next six months will help patients lose, on average, 25-50 lbs.
Duration: Six months into the program, the Orbera intragastric balloon is removed, again, with a non-surgical procedure. Medical weight loss options are available after removal to ensure the development of necessary behaviors to keep the weight off.
Results:The US Orbera clinical trial showed 40% excess body weight loss, and Orbera patients lost 3.1x more weight than patients in the medical weight loss arm of the trial. After the procedure, your hunger will also be reduced because your stomach feels like it has food in it when it is actually empty, except for the gastric balloon.
Spatz
What it is: The Spatz 3 adjustable gastric balloon, approved by the FDA in 2021, is designed for individuals with a BMI of 35-40 or a BMI of 30-35 with an obesity-related medical issue. Distinguished by its adjustability, Spatz 3 offers a flexible approach to non-surgical weight loss.
Duration: Unlike traditional balloons with a 6-month limit, the Spatz balloon can remain in place for up to 8 months, providing an extended period for more significant weight management and lifestyle changes.
Results: In FDA trials, the Spatz adjustable balloon demonstrated superior weight loss and higher success rates than any other gastric balloon, whether saline or gas-filled.
Expected Weight Loss After Gastric Balloon
Gastric balloon results vary based on factors including lifestyle changes, diet, and initial body weight, but patients typically experience significant weight loss.
- Average Weight Loss: Patients can lose anywhere from 12% to 40% of their excess body weight within six months of having the balloon placed.
- Long-Term Success: The success of the gastric balloon also depends on the commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Comprehensive support including dietary guidance, physical activity recommendations, and behavior modification strategies are crucial and provided as part of the program. This holistic approach helps sustain weight loss beyond the initial period after the balloon is removed.
Patients considering the gastric balloon should be committed to lifestyle changes that will support their long-term weight management goals.
Gastric Balloon Surgery Pricing
Investing in a gastric balloon procedure at JourneyLite is an investment in your future health, happiness, and well-being. We are dedicated to making these life-changing procedures as accessible as possible.
The gastric balloon procedure at JourneyLite costs $6,500. We offer self pay options and a range of financing plans you can explore here.
Why Choose JourneyLite?
Selecting the best facility for your gastric balloon procedure is essential for achieving your weight loss goals. Here’s why patients choose JourneyLite:
Highly Experienced Surgeons: Our team is renowned for their expertise in the gastric balloon procedure, having successfully helped thousands of patients on their journey to weight loss.
Accredited Excellence: We are proud to be an MBSAQIP-Accredited Bariatric Surgery Outpatient Center of Excellence, as designated by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. This accreditation recognizes our commitment to providing the highest standards of care in weight loss procedures.
Conveniently Located: JourneyLite serves patients across Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, with accessible locations in Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Indianapolis, and Northern Kentucky. Our centers are strategically placed to ensure comprehensive and compassionate weight loss care is never far away.
Book Your Gastric Balloon Consultation
Don’t wait to transform your life. Schedule your gastric balloon consultation with JourneyLite today and discover how we can help you take control of your health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gastric Balloon
Navigating the options and understanding the nuances of gastric balloon procedures can be challenging. Below, we address some of the most common questions to help clarify the process and ease your decision-making.
Does insurance cover this procedure?
Gastric balloon procedures are not commonly covered by insurance. JourneyLite has encountered instances of coverage through specific employers, but these cases are rare. To make this procedure accessible, we offer self-pay and financing options.
How painful is a gastric balloon?
Patients may experience discomfort and nausea in the days following the gastric balloon placement as the body adjusts to the device. However, these symptoms are typically manageable and subside after the initial procedure. Unlike weight loss surgery, a balloon is minimally invasive and
What is the minimum weight to qualify for a gastric balloon?
The minimum weight to qualify for a gastric balloon typically requires a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above. You can use our BMI calculator to find out yours. However, eligibility can also depend on other health factors and obesity-related conditions. If you’re unsure about your qualifications, contact the JourneyLite team.
Kyle Litteral says
I was wanting more information about the gastric balloon.
Dr. C says
Ok I will have someone email you Kyle.
Dr. C
Tara Whitcomb says
That would be fine. Thank you
Angela combs says
I would love to lose the weight can you send me more information. Thanks
Dr. C says
Sorry for the delay – I will have someone contact you with more info!
Dr. Curry
Aliciyana says
Wanting to find out more about what this is also how much it would be … it’s important to me to know, Thank you
Trace Curry says
Hi there, currently our gastric balloon program is $7000, which includes insertion, removal, and 12 months of dietitian care.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Dina Maxwell says
Does insurance pay for the balloon
Trace Curry says
There is one policy that some AT&T employees have that covers gastric balloon, but other than that no unfortunately. We do have self pay options though, you can call 513-259-2555 for more info.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Carol says
How many “Gastric Balloon” procedures has Dr. Curry done to date?
Dr. C says
We have done about 20 so far, seeing great results too!
Dr. Curry
Jennifer says
If you have 20-30 pounds to lose is this an option?
Dr. C says
Yes it should be a perfect option as long as your BMI is over 30. There is a BMI calc on our home page LoseWeightCincy.com
Or if you give me a number and I’ll have someone call you to discuss in more detail.
Dr. Curry
Vonda says
So are you doing the dual reshape balloon now and if so how much is the cost of that one?
Dr. C says
Yes we are now offering ReShape consults, and we are doing our first cases next week. It is currently $500 more than Orbera, so $7000 for the 12 month program. But until Dec 31’st we are running a $500 special. If you would like to make an appointment just call 513-559-1222 option 1.
Dr. Curry
Julie Peek says
I had gastric bypass surgery in 2000. I have gained back 75 of the 110 lbs I lost. Would I be a candidate for the balloon? Does insurance pay any of the cost if you have high blood pressure or other weight related conditions?
Dr. C says
Patients who have had previous bariatric surgery are not candidates for the balloon unfortunately.
Dr. Curry
Julie says
Are you eligible for the balloon if you previously had gastric bypass surgery?
Dr. C says
Unfortunately no, as there would be nowhere for the balloon to fit.
Dr. Curry
stacey says
Im at 33 BMI I have thyroid issues would this be a good choice? I was thinking about a lap band. I would need to loose at least 50lbs
Dr. C says
Yes a balloon could be a great option, just request an appointment online and I’ll have someone call you to discuss.
Dr. Curry
Jason Valente says
Can Balloons be used in teenagers or kids? Seems like that would be a great option?
Dr. C says
Unfortunately at this time neither device has received FDA approval for use in children or adolescents.
Dr. Curry
Lisa valle says
I would love to know more about this
Chris says
I would love to learn more about both surgeries…Can you e mail me some information please…Thank you
Stephonie says
Does insurance pay any of the cost of this procedure?
Dr. C says
Unfortunately not, but we do have financing through Prosper Health (just click on “financing options” to the right). You can also use a flexible healthcare spending account.
Dr. Curry
Lina says
Why affter six month you have to take the balloon off?why you don’t keep in Theri for every ?and how much I have to pay?rigth now weight 135bl because I am on the diet bill for 3year
Dr. C says
You have to take it out after six months because the risk of balloon rupture starts to increase. An Orbera is $6500 and includes a 12 month weight loss program.
Dr. Curry
Sharon says
Hi I had lapband, the band slipped, is this something I could do?
Dr. C says
Yes, if your band has been removed a balloon is a great option.
Dr. C
Donna says
I see that if you had gastic bypass this isnt available….i had the sleeve done…is this also unavailable? I only lost 40 lbs with the sleeve…
Dr. C says
No there is no room for a balloon in someone with a sleeve. The best surgical option would be conversion to a bypass.
Dr. C
Sharon says
Will Insurance be covering this in the near future? I have many health conditions documented by my doctor…diabetes, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, etc…
Dr. C says
Insurance companies are hard to predict Sharon, wish I could tell you more! At the very soonest it would be a couple years I’d say.
Dr. Curry
Sara says
I am 5.0 196lbs tried eveything. What would be a better procedure, lap band or the gastric balloon. Do you have.more information available?
Dr. C says
It depends on many factors Sara, best bet would be to talk to one of our patient service reps. Just call 513-259-2555
Dr. Curry
Melissa Robinson says
Can you do the Orbera Gastric Balloon if you had gastric bypass 12 years ago?
Dr. C says
No Melissa – there would be no room for the balloon!
Dr. Curry
Melissa says
I see alot of comments on here of patients that have had the Gastric Bypass and have gained weight back. Does the stomach eventually stretch causing the weight gain? Is there any kind of re- tightening the stomach that can be done?
Dr. C says
Sometimes the pouch can stretch leading to weight gain. There is a procedure that my partner, Dr. Pitt, dose called Overstitch. Just type it into the search box in the upper right hand corner of the home page and you’ll find more info.
Dr. Curry
Paula burriss says
Was wondering I have Humana health care insurance for people with low income. How can I find out if this insurance covers this procedure. Im 5`3 and weigh 284.e
Dr. C says
Hi Paula,
Unfortunately, since gastric balloon is such a new procedure, it isn’t covered by any insurance companies.
Dr. Curry
kelly masterson says
Is there any doctor in Louisville Ky that does this also thanks
Dr. C says
Try Dr. Vince Lusko’s office.
Dr. Curry
Shirley says
I am 54 yrs old and my son is 30 yrs old. I need to loose 50lbs and he needs to lose 150lbs. Would you recommend this procedure for us he is diabetic but I am not? I was hoping if he lost 50lbs it would encourage him to lose more weight. He is not comfortable with the surgical technique. Once the balloon is removed after the 6 months can another one be inserted after the six month follow up for further weight loss?
Dr. C says
50 lbs is reasonable for a balloon, 150 lbs is unlikely. Serial balloons can be inserted, this has been done outside the US.
Dr. Curry
shirley says
I think my son would be encouraged to continue his weight loss if he could lose the 50lbs. Would that be an option?
Tammy says
Do you currently offer a payment plan.
Dr. C says
We offer Prosper Health Lending – just go to https://journeylite.com/index.php/financing-options/ or click on “Financing Options” on the right hand side of your screen.
Dr. Curry
Amy says
My BMI is 42, am I still eligible for the balloon procedure? I am 5’6 264 and really have no other health issues other than asthma.
Dr. C says
Yes Amy, the balloon can be used in patients with a BMI over 40. It is considered off-label use so the patient just needs to be informed that the FDA approved the device for patients with a BMI of 30-40, so using it outside of that is not FDA approved. Would you like to make an appointment for a consult?
Dr. Curry
Vicki says
Is age and/or diabetes a contraindication for the balloon procedure? I am 65, 5 foot and weigh 196. I am miserable!
Dr. C says
No Vicki, age nor diabetes are contraindications. If you would like to set up a consult just call 513-259-2555.
Dr. Curry
Shawna says
I would like mote information please
Dr. C says
Hi Shawna – there is a ton of information on the site. If you’ve already looked at it, call 513-259-2555 to speak to someone who can answer any remaining questions.
Dr. Curry
Shirley says
I am 55 year old ,i have high blood pressure, along with bad chlosteral I have had lipo done 8 years ago ,I am 4’11 weight 164 lbs,I would like to lose 45-50lbs,will the balloon be good for me?
Dr. C says
Yes most likely a balloon would be a great option for you. Just call 513-259-2555 and Marcy, Angie, or Chrysta can talk to you in more details about your options!
Dr. Curry
Teresa says
With the balloon option being non invasive, why is it so expensive?
Dr. C says
It’s half the cost of weight loss surgery, Teresa, yet the device costs over $2000, plus there is a procedure for both insertion and removal, as well as 12 dietitian visits.
Dr. Curry
Betty Gillen says
If I decided to have the Reshape Duo, what is the time frame to having the surgery?
Dr. C says
Hi Betty!
Usually it’s about 2-3 weeks from your initial consultation.
Dr. Curry
Nash Rich says
I’ve never heard of this before. I see how it would help you lose weight though, because less space in the stomach, would mean less hunger! What happens if it collapses though? Can they still get it out?
Dr. C says
Early rupture rate is pretty rare but has been reported. It’s easy enough to remove if it happens, the danger is if it is not removed soon enough it could possibly get out of the stomach and cause a bowel obstruction. This is why most doctors put blue dye in there, so if it leaks the patient would know it as it would turn their urine blue.
Dr. Curry
Amy says
I would like more information regarding this procedure? What if this procedure was being used to treat a chronic condition such as RA.. will insurance assist?
Dr. C says
Hi Amy – insurance won’t assist with gastric balloon regardless of the reason. It will take years, if ever, before they cover. I’ll have someone contact you with more info.
Dr. Curry
nicole says
how long do you have to be off from work after having the procedure?
Dr. C says
Most people take 2-3 days off as nausea and vomiting is pretty common after initial insertion.
Shelly says
Hello Dr Curry
I know the removal of the lap band is ABOUT $3500. My question is, you would pay removal and the cost of the ballon?
Thank You
Shelly
Dr. C says
We can’t do a band removal and balloon placement in the same operation, there would have to be 2-3 months in between.
Dr. Curry
Carmen D says
If serial balloons are inserted for persons with a BMI over 40, does the cost increase since it will be done in the same procedure? Is the Obera inserted twice or would the reshape be what is used or 2 of them? Additionally, the fact that for over a BMI is not FDA approved means what to me? Just that they don’t guarantee the effectiveness or results? or what? Lastly, why wont insurance cover this procedure since it too helps with weightloss?
Dr. C says
There is a slight discount on a 2nd balloon as there is one less anesthetic involved. The companies that make the balloons only requested approval for BMI 30-40. This doesn’t meant that it doesn’t work for patients with a BMI over, just that nobody has asked the FDA yet. Lastly, as you probably know, insurance companies frequently don’t cover obesity related treatments, especially new ones.
Dr. C
Julie says
Is there a way to decrease cost upfront by paying for the dietician and online weightloss access monthly so I could use my HSA? Financing is not available for me.
Dr. C says
Unfortunately no, but you can use an HSA account.
Elizabeth says
Hello Dr. Curry
You do wonderful work by the way my co worker looks amazing after having the gastric sleeve. I have a BMI of 60. I’m extremely scared of surgery and really like the sound of the balloon. I’ve contacted your office several times only to back out because of the scariness of surgery. Would the balloon benefit me at all since my BMI is so high?
Dr. C says
Thanks for the kudos Elizabeth!
While a sleeve would be a better option for a patient with a BMI of 60, losing 30-50 lbs would definitely benefit your health. We do have a BMI limit of 55 at our center however, so we’d have to get some pre-procedure weight loss first.
Dr. Curry
Claudine Andrieux says
I am 260 and wanna lose at least 60 lbs what is my best bet I don’t want any thing surgical like gastric bypass or sleeve ? will I be able to lose the weight without weight loss surgery?
Dr. C says
Claudine if you don’t want surgery, your best bet for losing 60 lbs would probably be a gastric balloon. Just call 513-259-2555 and one of our patient service reps can answer all your questions.
Dr. Curry
Jen says
I have a BMI of 60, I don’t want gastric by pass or lapban, however this balloon procedure looks doable. Can you do this for someone with a BMI of 60?
Dr. C says
I wouldn’t deny you a balloon it would just be considered off-label use and you have to be ok with target weight loss for balloons of 30-50 pounds.
Dr. Curry
Lyn says
Can you do either balloon if you have reflux? If so, is one more preferable? Does the balloon exacerbate the reflux?
Dr. C says
Yes you can have a balloon if you have GERD as long as it is not severe. No particular balloon preference, either one is fine. Sometimes GERD can worsen afterwards, however.
Dr. Curry
Marilyn says
Hello,
I see the target weight loss for the Orbera is 30-50 lbs. What is the target for the Reshape Duo?
After 6 months can you get another balloon/Reshape for an additional 30-50 lbs? If so, would there be any kind of discount?
I have been to several seminars (elsewhere, as You were just recommended to me), I am really interested in the sleeve. I have 80-100 lbs to loose. My BMI is 38-39
If I choose the sleeve how long from the start to the finish procedure?
Thank you
Dr. C says
ReShape target weight loss is the same, 30-50 lbs. Another balloon can be done a month later, typically we see 20-30 lbs with second balloon. For 80-100 pounds I would probably go with sleeve. For an insurance patient it’s usually 3-6 months. For a self pay patient usually 6-8 weeks. If you’d like to make an appointment just click on the right hand side of the screen!
Dr. Curry
Telissa says
Is self pay an option? Payment plan? How much required down for endoscopic procedure?
Dr. C says
Hi there, we do require payment in full prior to the procedure but we offer financing through Prosper, and you can also use flexible healthcare spending accounts.
Dr. C
Megan says
Hi my bmi is 27, I do have a history of thyroid disease. Do you perform off label surgeries? I’m reading that I wouldn’t meet criteria for the surgery
Dr. C says
Hi we do off-label procedures in some cases, but we cannot do a weight loss procedure of any kind on a patient with a BMI under 30.
Dr. Curry
Kristin says
Does your BMI have to be under 40 for the balloon? I’d like to do it but I’m over 40. The other options scare me due to the severity of the procedure and anticipated recovery time.
Dr. C says
We do offer balloons to patients with a BMI over 40. It’s considered off-label use but allowable.
Tracy says
Will insurance cover any of the procedure for the balloon ?
Dr. C says
Unfortunately not, however you can use a flexible spending account.
Beth says
I’ve with the ups and downs of weight gain and weight loss. normally I go to the doctor and he prescribes me phentermine and I get down 15-20 pounds. This time I have only lost 10. I’m 5’5 147-149 could I get the ballon to loose 15-20 pounds? I know it would possibly be considered off label.
Dr. C says
Hi if you’re BMI is over 30 you are most likely a candidate.
Dr. C
Tonya says
Do you accept out of state patients?
Dr. C says
Yes we have many out of state patients Tonya. For more info just send an email to psr@journeylite.com and we can get you set up with a virtual consult.
Dr. Curry
Sarah says
What is the biggest differences between the two types of balloons? Do you feel that one works better than the other?
Dr. C says
Hi Sarah,
We just did an analysis on our patients and found the early removal rate to be lower with ReShape, so that is what we are recommending at this point.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Barbara Garrett says
Hi I have four auto immunes, IBS and high BP. Are there risks with this procedure especially with my auto-immunes? I’m afraid my body would try to fight off the balloon as a “foreign object” and send my already depleted immunity system haywire. What do you think?
Dr. C says
Hi there. The balloon is inside your stomach, your body does not attack foreign objects in there fortunately so it shouldn’t be an issue.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
anna arizaga says
can I get this balloon pill if 8 yrs ago I had the gastic sleeve? I know my stomach has enlarged but need to loose some weight due to medical issues thank you
Dr. C says
Balloons can’t be done on patients who have had prior bariatric surgery. For additional weight loss, conversion to a gastric bypass or SIPS could be a potential option however.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Amy says
Is overs balloon weight loss procedure covered under primary insurance Medicare and secondary united healthcare? Or do you have a payment plan?
Dr. C says
Balloon is not covered by any insurance. We do have financing options, call 513-259-2555 and they can help you more.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Key says
I have my orbera placed in Mexico. Can it be removed at your clinic?
Trace Curry says
We possibly could do that if you can provide documentation that it is actually an Orbera and not a different type of balloon that we haven’t worked with before.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Key says
I can provide documentation. How much is removal?
Key says
How much is the endoscopic sleeve at your location?
Jacqueline Souers says
Would this be covered by insurance??
Trace Curry says
Gastric balloons are not covered by insurance unfortunately.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Priscilla Stewart says
Can you please tell me how putting a balloon in you stomach with no surgery can possible cost so much. That an outrage. He’ll you can have surgery n it cost less.
Trace Curry says
I’m sorry you feel it’s an outrage, but the balloon costs around $3000, there are two procedures performed each requiring a surgeon and an anesthesiologist, and there are 12 registered dietitian visits.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Lorene says
Hello
Can you please tell me how many balloons do I need to lose over 30 pounds in 6 months and the cost for everything with remove it!
Trace Curry says
Many balloon patients lose 30 lbs during the 6 month interval that the balloon is in place. The cost is around $7000 for insertion, removal, and 12 months of office care.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Kelly Steele says
I had the laparoscopic Roux en Y gastric bypass 15 years ago. I had complication of a bleeding ulcer afterward twice and almost died. I have since gained almost all of the weight back in the past couple years. What procedure if any is recommended for me at this time?
Trace Curry says
An Overstitch or medical weight loss are the best options for priro Roux-en-Y patients. If you call 513-259-2555 our patient service reps can help you figure things out.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Max says
My BMI is 56.5, I’m 350 lbs, 5’6 & a 46 year old female. I’ve had the lap band but it was removed last year March. I was 292 at the time of surgery. I rather not have the GSV. Could I get the balloon in my case? I only take water pills for my pressure. The high pressure is due to the weight & poor sleep.
I was also told to lose at least 50 lbs before doing the GSV. If I could do that, I wouldn’t need it. What do you think is best? Thanks.
Trace Curry says
A patient with a band that has been removed could be a balloon candidate, however it would be off-label in a patient with a BMI of 56. 30-50 lbs is usually what we see with the balloon in the best of results, so if that is in the ballpark for what you are looking for then perhaps it would be an option.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians
Jennifer says
Does insurance cover a sleeve if you have high blood pressure?
Trace Curry says
It depends on the plan and the patient’s BMI. Usually if BMI is over 40 no weight related medical problems are required. If BMI is 35-40 some plans require 1 medical comorbidity and some require 2, depending on the plan.
Dr. Trace Curry
Medical Director
JourneyLite Physicians