What is Orbera Intragastric Balloon?
These procedure details are being provided for informational purposes only. At this time, we are not currently accepting new patients seeking an Orbera Balloon. All current Orbera patients who are actively in our program may continue to receive care for placement and removal procedures, and extended follow-up care.
The Orbera Intragastric Balloon is a silicone balloon placed inside of the stomach during a 15 minute, outpatient, endoscopic procedure. Once in place and filled with fluid, the balloon restricts the amount of food you are able to eat by taking up space within your stomach. This results in increased satisfaction from smaller portions and an overall feeling of decreased hunger. The FDA has approved the Orbera Intragastic Balloon for patients with a BMI between 30-40.
The Orbera Intragastric Balloon is a temporary procedure and placement should not exceed 6 months. A second endoscopic procedure is required to remove the balloon. Six months after the Orbera is removed, the average excess weight loss is 30.7%.1
Please take note, this procedure is so new that health insurance does not cover the procedure cost, so it is offered as cash pay only.
Orbera Intragastric Balloon Recovery Time
Because the procedure is completed endoscopically, the recovery time for the Orbera Intragastric Balloon is very short. The hospital stay is typically just a few hours. Most patient are able to return to work one day after placement or removal.
Possible Complications1
- Device Intolerance – 5%
- Dehydration – 1.3%
- Gastric Outlet Obstruction – 0.63%
- Gastric Perforation – 0.63%
** Please note – There are many possible complications to the Orbera Intragastric Balloon and Upper Endoscopy. Your surgeon will review these potential risks prior to your procedure.**
