Gastric balloon removal

Need to know

• What happens 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.

• Afterwards 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.