A gastric balloon is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive treatment that promotes a feeling of fullness and helps control portion sizes. It is an excellent option for those not eligible for more invasive bariatric surgeries or who prefer a temporary solution.
The procedure is becoming popular among individuals seeking a noninvasive alternative to weight loss surgery. However, the process has its associated costs.
Insurance
The gastric balloon is a nonsurgical, FDA-approved weight loss device that helps patients lose and keep off excess weight. Insurance usually does not cover this procedure. However, it can be less expensive than bariatric surgery and has a lesser risk of bleeding or infection. In addition, significant gastric balloon weight loss can result in improved or resolved obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes and sleep apnea. This can decrease a patient’s need for medications and associated healthcare costs.
The gastric balloon cost can vary depending on several factors, including geographic location, surgeon, and type of balloon system chosen. The size and shape of the balloon can also impact price, with more advanced models often carrying a higher price tag. The experience and reputation of the doctor can also influence the cost, with renowned specialists often charging a premium for their expertise.
In addition to the initial cost of the device, patients will need to consider the cost of additional services such as nutritional counseling and follow-up medical appointments. These expenses may not be included in a package, but they should be regarded to ensure prospective patients make an informed decision regarding their treatment plan.
Cost of the Balloon
A gastric balloon is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive treatment that helps patients lose and maintain weight. It works in multiple ways to promote weight loss, including filling space in the stomach and reducing appetite. It also slows the passage of food from the stomach to the intestines, creating a feeling of fullness with smaller meals. The result is a reduced calorie intake and increased healthy eating habits.
When comparing prices for the gastric balloon procedure, prospective patients should remember that there are many different factors to consider. The first thing to ask is whether the quoted price includes the insertion and removal costs. Many clinics offer the procedure as a package, saving patients money in the long run.
Another critical factor is the type of balloon being used. Some types of balloons are made from a more expensive material, which can increase the cost of the procedure. In addition, the specific model of the balloon will influence how effective it will be and how long it will remain in place.
Finally, patients should also consider the possible costs of dietary supplements and follow-up medical appointments. While these expenses are not typically covered by insurance, they are essential for ensuring successful outcomes and maintaining a healthy lifestyle after removing the gastric balloon.
Pre-Operative Tests
Various tests may be required to ensure you are a suitable candidate for gastric balloon treatment. These include a history and physical exam, blood work, chest X-ray, and cardiovascular and pulmonary function testing. You may also need a psychological evaluation. The cost of these pre-procedure tests may add to the overall expense of your procedure.
Once approved for the procedure, the gastric balloon will be placed in your stomach in a minimally invasive surgery. The process takes a few minutes, and no incisions are required. The balloon will occupy your stomach, making you eat smaller meals and feel full more quickly. This is an effective weight loss tool for people who struggle with a poor diet and who have difficulty losing weight with regular exercise and dietary changes alone.
Patients must follow a restricted diet after the surgery for about six months while the balloon is in place. In addition to promoting weight loss, this diet will help improve patients’ health by improving conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure and reducing symptoms of sleep apnea, dyslipidemia, and fatty liver disease.
As with any medical procedure, the price of a gastric balloon varies widely by region and clinic. The experience and reputation of a surgeon may also influence the cost, with well-established specialists commanding a premium. Moreover, some countries may have higher prices because of the expenses of running a hospital. In addition, it is essential to factor in the potential for follow-up care, which includes nutritional counseling and lifestyle modification programs, into the initial cost of the procedure.
Post-Operative Care
Once inserted, the gastric balloon helps promote weight loss in multiple ways. First, it occupies space in your stomach, so you can only consume small amounts of food at a time. Additionally, the balloon slows the food’s journey from your stomach to your intestines, making you feel satisfied sooner and eat less between meals.
You’ll be on a liquid diet while your stomach adapts to the balloon, which you’ll gradually transition to a soft foods diet, then a long-term meal plan designed by your nutritionist. You’ll also take medication while the balloon is in place (usually lansoprazole to prevent stomach ulcers).
Because the gastric balloon is nonsurgical and doesn’t require incisions, it has fewer risks than more invasive weight loss surgery options. However, it’s important to remember that the procedure isn’t a cure for obesity and may not be adequate for every patient.
In addition to the costs associated with gastric balloon placement, you’ll want to consider other pre- and post-procedure expenses, such as nutritional counseling, follow-up medical appointments, and potential dietary supplements. While these aren’t included in the package price of the gastric balloon, they’re essential to the success of your weight loss journey.
