Intragastric Balloon (Gastric Balloon) in Cairo
An intragastric balloon is a soft silicone balloon placed in the stomach through the mouth and filled with saline, so you feel full sooner and eat less. It is the least invasive option within bariatric surgery services — there are no incisions and nothing is cut or stapled. The gastric balloon is temporary, usually staying in place for about six months, and works best as a supported start to lasting lifestyle change.
Who is the gastric balloon for?
A balloon is generally suited to adults with a BMI of about 30 to 40 who have not reached their goals with diet and exercise alone, and who do not meet — or do not want — surgery. It can also be used to reduce weight and risk before another operation in people with a very high BMI.
It is not suitable for everyone. A large hiatus hernia, previous stomach surgery, active stomach ulcers, pregnancy, or needing long-term anti-inflammatory or blood-thinning medication usually rule it out. People with a BMI of 35 or more may achieve more durable results with surgery such as a sleeve gastrectomy.
Before the balloon is placed
Preparation is simpler than for surgery: a consultation, basic blood tests, a review of your medications and, in some cases, an assessment by a dietitian. The upper endoscopy that places the balloon also checks the stomach lining first, so ulcers or a hiatus hernia can be identified at that point.
You will be asked to fast for several hours beforehand. A plan for the weeks after placement — eating, anti-sickness medication and follow-up — is agreed before you begin.
How the balloon is placed and removed
Under sedation, a thin flexible camera (endoscope) is passed through the mouth into the stomach. The deflated balloon is guided into place and filled with saline, then the endoscope is withdrawn. Placement usually takes about 20–30 minutes and most patients go home the same day.
At the end of the treatment period, typically around six months, the balloon is deflated and removed in another short endoscopy. Leaving it in longer than its approved time increases the risk of problems.
How much weight can you lose?
Typical results are a loss of around 10–15% of total body weight over the six months, which can meaningfully improve blood pressure, blood sugar and joint pain.
The balloon is a tool, not a cure. Without lasting changes to eating and activity, much of the weight tends to return after removal, which is why dietitian follow-up during and after treatment is part of the programme.
Side effects and risks
The first days are often the hardest: nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps are common as the stomach adjusts, usually settling within a week with medication. A small number of patients cannot tolerate the balloon and have it removed early.
Less common risks include reflux, stomach ulcers, balloon deflation (which can, rarely, cause a blockage if it passes into the bowel) and, very rarely, inflammation of the pancreas or a tear in the stomach. Any severe or persistent pain or vomiting needs prompt review.
Diet with a balloon and what comes next
Eating restarts with clear fluids for a few days, then full fluids, soft food and normal-texture food over about two to three weeks. Small, protein-rich meals, eaten slowly, work best, and a daily multivitamin is often recommended.
After removal, some patients maintain their result with diet and exercise; others go on to surgery. If weight regain is a concern later, your surgeon may discuss options such as a gastric bypass or sleeve, depending on your health.
Recovery timeline
Sedation, 20–30 minute procedure, home the same day once recovered.
Fluids only; nausea and cramps are common and treated with medication.
Soft then normal-texture food in small portions; most people back at work.
Regular dietitian follow-up, exercise, then endoscopic removal at about six months.
Cost & what’s included
The cost of an intragastric balloon depends on the type of balloon, the sedation and endoscopy facility, and the follow-up programme over the treatment period. Dr. Elbasatiny provides a personalised quote after consultation.
A personalised quote
You receive a detailed quote after your assessment, covering the surgeon, anaesthesia, hospital and stay.
Frequently asked questions
Is the gastric balloon surgery?
No. The balloon is placed through the mouth with an endoscope under sedation, without any incisions. It is removed the same way, usually after about six months.
How much weight do you lose with a gastric balloon?
Typical results are around 10–15% of total body weight over six months. Keeping the weight off after removal depends on the eating and activity habits built during treatment.
Is the first week with a balloon painful?
Many people have nausea, vomiting and cramping for the first few days as the stomach adjusts. Anti-sickness medication and a fluid diet help, and symptoms usually settle within about a week.
Balloon or sleeve — which is better for me?
A balloon is temporary and less invasive, suited to moderate obesity, typically a BMI of about 30–40. A sleeve is permanent and gives greater, more lasting weight loss, which usually makes it better from a BMI of 35–40 upwards.
References
- Bariatric Surgery Procedures — American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- 2022 ASMBS and IFSO: Indications for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery — ASMBS / IFSO — Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases
- Weight loss surgery — NHS
This information is general education and does not replace a medical examination. Treatment decisions are made after assessing your case.
Have a question about your case?
Send your question and the clinic team will contact you to arrange a consultation, usually within the same working day.
- An honest assessment of your case
- A clear plan before any decision
- A detailed quote after examination