Top 6 Questions I get asked about the Allurion Gastric Balloon

1. How long does the Allurion gastric balloon stay in your body?

The Allurion gastric balloon is a weight loss device that is designed to be temporary and is not meant to stay in the body permanently. The balloon is designed to remain in the stomach for approximately 16 weeks or about four months, after which it deflates (releases the fluid on it’s own) and passes out naturally. During this time it helps individuals to lose weight by reducing the amount of food they can eat and increasing feelings of fullness.

After the 16-week period the Allurion balloon releases all the fluid as it has a self release mechanism. This is what avoids the need for an endoscopy as is typically required for other balloons on the market. On rare occasions if the balloon is creating blockage (<3% cases in studies) an endoscopy or procedure may be required to extract the balloon.

2. Can you exercise with Allurion gastric Balloon?

Yes, it is generally safe to exercise with the Allurion gastric balloon in place. In fact regular exercise is an important component of a healthy weight loss program and can help individuals achieve better results while using the balloon.

However it is important to listen to your body and start with low-impact exercises, gradually increasing the intensity and duration as your body adapts. It is also important to avoid exercises that place too much pressure on the stomach or cause discomfort (such as jumping or skipping) as this could potentially cause damage to the balloon or cause other digestive issues.

Before starting any exercise program with the Allurion gastric balloon it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider and/or a certified personal trainer to develop a safe and effective exercise plan that is tailored to your individual needs and fitness level. Deep sea diving is not recommended while the balloon is in place.

3. How much weight can you lose with an Allurion balloon?

The amount of weight an individual can lose with the Allurion gastric balloon can vary depending on several factors, including the starting weight, dietary habits, exercise regimen and individual metabolism.

Clinical studies have shown that on average individuals who use the Allurion gastric balloon can lose between 10-15% of their total body weight, which can be equivalent to about 10-30 pounds or 4.5-14 kg during the 16-week period that the balloon is in place.

It’s important to note that the balloon is not a standalone solution for weight loss, but rather a tool to help individuals jumpstart and maintain a healthy lifestyle. In order to achieve the best results, individuals should follow a healthy diet and exercise program both during and after the use of the Allurion Balloon. The Health Tracker (Smart watch) and the Smart Scales, that come with the Allurion Balloon allow you to measure your progress and can motivate you to develop a healthy lifestyle for good.

It’s also worth noting that weight loss can vary greatly from person to person and some individuals may experience more or less weight loss than the average. The most important factor is to commit to healthy lifestyle changes and to work with a healthcare provider to develop a safe and effective weight loss plan.

4. Do you feel hungry with the Allurion gastric balloon?

The Allurion gastric balloon is designed to reduce feelings of hunger and help individuals feel full more quickly, which can make it easier to stick to a healthy diet and achieve weight loss goals. The balloon takes up 550mls (approx.) of space in the stomach, which can help individuals feel fuller with smaller meals.

However it’s important to note that the degree to which the balloon reduces hunger can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience a significant reduction in hunger, while others may still experience some hunger pangs or cravings. Additionally it’s common to experience some discomfort or nausea in the first few days after the balloon is placed, which can make it difficult to eat.

It’s important to work with a healthcare provider and/or a registered dietitian to develop a personalized meal plan that takes into account individual preferences and dietary needs and to follow their recommendations for adjusting the diet as needed to minimize hunger and maximize weight loss. Staying well-hydrated and eating small frequent meals throughout the day can also help reduce feelings of hunger and discomfort.

5. What are the risks of Allurion Gastric Balloon?

Like any medical procedure the Allurion gastric balloon procedure does carry some risks. Fortunately with the newer version of the balloon the risks of these side effects has reduced significantly. Some of the potential risks and side effects associated with the use of the Allurion gastric balloon include:

1. Nausea and vomiting: These are common side effects in the first few days after the balloon is placed and can be managed with medication and dietary changes. If not managed properly it can lead to dehydration.
2. Abdominal pain and discomfort: Some individuals may experience abdominal pain, bloating or discomfort due to the presence of the balloon in the stomach.
3. Balloon rupture or deflation: While rare there is a risk of the balloon rupturing or deflating which could potentially cause complications such as blockages or bowel perforation.
4. Oesophageal or stomach irritation: The presence of the balloon in the stomach can cause irritation or inflammation of the stomach lining or oesophagus.
5. Bowel Blockage: This is something that can rarely happen when the balloon is passing out. It is more common if one has had previous abdominal surgery.

It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the Allurion gastric balloon procedure with a healthcare procedure and to carefully consider whether it is the right choice for your individual needs and medical history.

6. On which side should I sleep after having the Allurion Gastric Balloon?

After having the Allurion gastric balloon it is generally recommended to sleep on your left side. This will help prevent the balloon from moving and potentially causing discomfort or intolerance.

Sleeping on the right side may cause the balloon to shift and put pressure on the stomach which can potentially cause discomfort. Lying on your back might give you a heavy sensation which can again feel uncomfortable.

Walking briefly can usually help in resettling if you have been feeling uncomfortable in the first few days after balloon placement.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for post-procedure care, including sleeping positions, dietary changes and activity restrictions, to ensure a safe and successful outcome. Additionally if you experience any unusual symptoms or discomfort such as severe abdominal pain or vomiting, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.