Gastric balloon removal
Follow-up care for an intragastric balloon
After up to six months of weight loss, your gastric balloon will need to be removed with a non-surgical procedure
Having a gastric balloon
The balloon works by taking up space inside of your stomach, helping you to feel full faster.
The gastric balloon lasts for up to six months before you'll need to have it removed.
Need to know
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What happens during the removal of the balloon? icon plus
The process for removing your gastric balloon is similar to having it inserted. Your consultant will use a local anaesthetic spray to numb your throat before inserting a thin flexible telescope (endoscope) through your mouth and into your stomach.
They'll then puncture the balloon to deflate it before removing it through your mouth. The procedure only takes around 15 minutes and shouldn't be painful, but you may be given a sedative to help you relax. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. They'll let you know what you need to do to prepare, including how long to avoid eating and drinking beforehand.
Along with fasting immediately before the procedure, you may need to avoid solid food for a few days. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. As you may be having a sedative, you should arrange for someone to help you get home after your procedure. -
After your balloon has been removed icon plus
Depending on your weight-loss goals and health needs, you may have another gastric balloon inserted at the same appointment.
Your consultant will recommend the best option for you. They can also offer dietary and lifestyle advice to help you reach and maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI). You should be able to go home the same day as your procedure. You may feel some discomfort or nausea for a few days, but this shouldn't last longer than that.
Your consultant will let you know what to expect and when you can get back to normal activities, including work.
Don't wait, pay for yourself
Our gastroenterology consultants
Our locations
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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London Digestive Centre
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
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London Digestive Health
2nd Floor
41 Welbeck Street
London W1G 8DU
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London Digestive Surgery
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344