Gastric Balloon
A non-surgical weight loss procedure placing a soft balloon in the stomach.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
A gastric balloon is a soft silicone balloon placed in your stomach through your mouth (no surgery needed). It takes up space so you feel full with smaller meals. It stays for 6-12 months.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Intragastric balloon therapy is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure. The balloon occupies gastric volume, inducing early satiety. Average excess weight loss is 25-35% over 6 months.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Gastric balloons offer a reversible, non-surgical alternative for patients with BMI 27-40 who have not responded to lifestyle and medication alone.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.
