Gastric Balloon

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The BIB™Intra-Gastric Balloon.

The BIB™ intragastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical weight loss device consisting of a soft silicone balloon that sits in your stomach taking up space to reduce your appetite and encourage portion control. This results in fast weight loss (usually over 2-3 months), with the average total weight loss experienced by patients around 15kg.

Who should consider using BIB™?

The BIB™ intragastric balloon is a great option for anyone who is a little overweight and looking to kick-start their weight loss. It is ideal for patients with a BMI of greater than 30 and with the goal of losing around 15kg quickly. It is suited to patients who are motivated to embark on a new healthy way of living with regular exercise and a focus on a healthy eating and nutrition. It can be beneficial to patients who have not had success with diets alone, or weight loss medications and who are seeking a little more assistance.

What does the BIB™ procedure involve?

The insertion of an BIB™ intra-gastric balloon is a simple and fast procedure, taking approximately 20 minutes to complete. It is performed with light sedation and is completely painless. The balloon is inserted via the mouth into the stomach using a camera called a gastroscope for guidance. Once in position, it is inflated with sterile salt water to about the size of a mango. Most patients do not require an overnight stay in hospital and will be able to go home the same day.

After insertion some patients may experience a feeling of nausea for up to 3 days, and it important to work with your allied health care team to manage these symptoms at home.

The BIB™ balloon can remain in your stomach for up to 6 months, before it is deflated and removed.

How much weight do people lose using BIB™?

The average weight loss is around 10-15kg, depending on the patient’s starting weight and how well they adapt to a healthy lifestyle. This means that with regular exercise and commitment to a healthy diet it is possible to lose much more, but without any change in lifestyle the weight loss will be much less.

Are there any other expected benefits?

With the insertion of the BIB™ balloon, we offer a 12-month dietary regime and regular contact with our surgeons and dietitian. This is combined with a structured exercise routine to maintain weight loss after the balloon is removed and help manage any health issues that may have arisen due to obesity.

How do I need to change my life using the BIB™ balloon?

It is important to remember that the BIB™ balloon is a tool to kick-start your weight loss journey and not the whole solution. The BIB™ is in place for a maximum of 6 months, and after that your weight loss is dependent on the lifestyle changes you have made. Maintaining contact with the dietitian and medical team, following your dietary plan and participating in your structured exercise regime are all key tools in your weight loss journey. Omitting any of these will reduce your chances of long-term success.