What Is a Gastric Balloon and How Does It Work?

aliza khan
Jul 1
4 min read

For individuals struggling with weight loss, especially those who have tried diets and exercise with limited success, medical weight-loss interventions offer a new ray of hope. Among the most talked-about non-surgical procedures is the gastric balloon. If you’ve been exploring safe and effective weight loss options and searched for the Gastric Balloon in Muscat, this guide will walk you through what it is, how it works, and whether it might be the right choice for you.

With obesity on the rise in Oman and the wider Gulf region, the gastric balloon is gaining popularity as a less invasive, yet highly effective alternative to weight-loss surgery.

What Is a Gastric Balloon?

A gastric balloon is a soft, expandable medical device inserted into the stomach to promote weight loss. The balloon is filled with saline or gas to occupy space in the stomach, reducing the amount of food it can hold. This makes you feel full faster and helps reduce overall calorie intake.

The procedure is non-surgical and temporary, typically lasting six to twelve months depending on the type of balloon used. It’s designed for people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 27 and 40 who haven’t achieved success with diet and exercise alone.

In Muscat, the procedure is offered by several specialized bariatric clinics and hospitals known for their advanced technologies and patient-centered approach.

How Does a Gastric Balloon Work?

The gastric balloon aids weight loss in a multi-step, integrated way. Here’s how it works:

1. Space Occupation in the Stomach:

Once inserted into the stomach, the balloon is inflated to occupy a significant volume—roughly 400 to 700 milliliters. This leaves less space for food, which means a person feels full with smaller portions.

2. Slows Gastric Emptying:

The balloon delays how quickly the stomach empties food into the intestines. As a result, satiety is prolonged and hunger is reduced between meals.

3. Behavioral Change Support:

The balloon is most effective when combined with a medically supervised diet and lifestyle program. Many clinics offering the gastric balloon in Muscat also provide access to nutritionists, fitness experts, and psychologists to help patients build healthier habits during the balloon period.

The Procedure: What to Expect:

One of the reasons why the gastric balloon is appealing is that it requires no incisions, anesthesia (in many cases), or hospitalization. Here's a step-by-step overview:

Initial Consultation:

Patients begin with a detailed consultation where the doctor assesses medical history, current weight, lifestyle, and fitness for the procedure. Blood tests and imaging may be ordered to rule out contraindications.

Balloon Placement:

Endoscopic Balloons: Most types (e.g., Orbera) are inserted via endoscopy while the patient is under mild sedation. The balloon is placed into the stomach and then filled with sterile saline.
Swallowable Balloons: Newer innovations like the Elipse balloon don’t require endoscopy or anesthesia. The patient swallows a capsule attached to a thin catheter, and once in place, the balloon is inflated and the catheter is removed.

The placement takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and patients are usually discharged the same day.

Adjustment Period:

It’s normal to feel nausea, bloating, or stomach cramps in the first few days as the body adjusts to the balloon. Medications are prescribed to ease discomfort.

Ongoing Follow-Up:

Regular follow-ups with the medical team help monitor weight loss, nutritional intake, and physical activity. This phase is crucial for long-term success.

Balloon Removal:

After 6 to 12 months, the balloon is removed via endoscopy or passed naturally (in the case of some newer models). By this time, most patients have lost a significant portion of their excess weight and developed new eating habits.

Advantages of the Gastric Balloon in Muscat:

Non-surgical: No cuts or permanent alterations to the digestive system.
Short recovery: Most patients return to work and normal activities within a few days.
Clinically proven: Patients typically lose 10–15% of their total body weight within 6 months.
Reversible: Unlike bariatric surgeries, the balloon is temporary and removable.
Comprehensive care: Many centers in Muscat provide multidisciplinary support including dietitians and behavior therapists to ensure lasting change.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate?

The gastric balloon is best suited for people who:

Have a BMI between 27 and 40
Are not suitable candidates for surgery or prefer a non-surgical solution
Struggle with portion control or emotional eating
Are committed to following a structured medical weight loss program

It may not be recommended for individuals with prior stomach surgeries, ulcers, hiatal hernia, or certain gastrointestinal conditions.

FAQs:

1. How much weight can I lose with a gastric balloon?

On average, patients lose between 10–25 kilograms, depending on their starting weight and commitment to dietary and lifestyle changes. Most of the weight is lost in the first 3 to 4 months.

2. Is the gastric balloon safe?

Yes, when placed by trained professionals, the gastric balloon is considered a safe and FDA-approved procedure. Side effects like nausea and vomiting are temporary and manageable with medication.

3. Can the balloon burst inside the stomach?

This is extremely rare. Most balloons are filled with colored saline or gas, so in the unlikely event of leakage, patients would notice a change in urine color or bloating. Immediate medical attention would be required.

4. What happens after the balloon is removed?

After removal, patients continue with their weight management program to maintain results. This includes regular check-ins, dietary guidance, and possibly transitioning to other forms of support like medications or continued counseling.

5. How much does a gastric balloon cost in Muscat?

Prices vary depending on the type of balloon, clinic reputation, and package inclusions. On average, the cost of gastric balloon in Muscat ranges from OMR 1,200 to OMR 1,800, which typically includes placement, removal, and 6–12 months of follow-up.

6. Can I have another balloon after the first one is removed?

Yes, some patients choose to undergo a second balloon procedure, especially if they have more weight to lose. This is assessed case-by-case by the medical team.

Final Thoughts:

The gastric balloon in Muscat offers a modern, non-invasive solution for people looking to lose weight effectively without undergoing surgery. With dedicated clinics offering expert supervision, customized support programs, and a range of balloon options, residents of Muscat now have access to world-class weight-loss interventions right at their doorstep.

Choosing to undergo the procedure is a personal decision and should be made in consultation with a qualified medical team. With the right suppo