Hello everyone! Today, I just want to talk about Gastric Balloon information since it shows up in the majority of our searches. So if you’re in the US or a Canadian resident seeking non-surgical weight loss, now you have an effective option with the gastric balloon. This temporary, endoscopically placed device could help you lose 10–15% of body weight in about 4 months while avoiding the risks of surgery. Our Toronto clinic (at 890-A Yonge St) offers personalized gastric balloon programs with support to maximize your results.

• Quick outpatient procedure: 20 minutes on average.

• Minimal downtime: No incisions needed; light monitoring in-clinic post-placement.

• Temporary & reversible: Balloon stays ~4–6 months then removed (or, in the Allurion system, it degrades and passes naturally.

Embark on your weight loss journey locally in Toronto at our weight loss clinic. Call us at 416-962-4444 or book an online consultation today.

What is a Gastric Balloon?

A gastric balloon is a silicone device placed in the stomach to limit food intake and promote fullness. At our Toronto clinic, a trained gastroenterologist inserts the deflated balloon through the mouth using an endoscope, then fills it with saline (sterile fluid). The inflated balloon partially occupies stomach space, causing you to feel full sooner during meals.

Patients often eat smaller portions and feel satisfied, without any cutting or alteration to digestion. Unlike weight-loss surgeries, the balloon does not remove or bypass any part of the digestive tract. Instead, it creates a gentle sense of fullness, helping you break the cycle of overeating. Clinical studies show that after a full program (about 16 weeks), patients typically lose 10–15% of their total body weight.

Key points: Gastric balloons are temporary, reversible devices placed via endoscopy, not surgery. They work by reducing stomach capacity and curbing hunger, leading to significant weight loss when combined with diet and lifestyle changes

What is the difference between a gastric balloon and a gastric sleeve?

The gastric balloon and gastric sleeve are both weight-loss interventions, but they differ greatly:

• Procedure: A gastric balloon is non-surgical and temporary, inserted via endoscopy and later removed A gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy) is a surgical, permanent procedure that removes a large portion of the stomach to limit intake.

• Permanence: The balloon stays in place for about 4–6 months (Orbera/Reshape balloons) or passes naturally (Allurion balloon), after which it is removed or degraded. The sleeve is irreversible – the reduced stomach remains permanently.

• Recovery & Risk: Balloon procedures are outpatient with minimal downtime and no incisions. Gastric sleeve requires general anesthesia, several days in hospital, and longer recovery.

• Weight Loss: A balloon typically yields 10–20% body-weight loss on average, whereas a sleeve often leads to much higher loss (over 50% of excess weight in many cases).

• Digestion: The balloon does not alter digestion or absorption, so nutrient intake remains normal. The sleeve physically shrinks the stomach, which can affect digestion and may require lifelong supplements.

In summary, a gastric balloon may be right for you if you want a less invasive, reversible aid to jump-start weight loss, while a sleeve is a major surgery for long-term weight loss. Both options should be considered carefully with medical advice.

Is a gastric balloon painful?

Most patients find that a gastric balloon is not very painful, especially compared to surgery. The placement itself is usually quick (around 20 minutes) under mild sedation or anesthesia. Immediately after the procedure, you may feel mild discomfort – typically nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramping – as the stomach adjusts to the foreign object.

• Early side-effects (1–4 days): Nausea, occasional vomiting, bloating or crampsThese are normal and generally managed with light medication (e.g. anti-nausea drugs).

• After settling in: Most people feel fine within a week. The balloon then helps you feel full more easily, so you naturally reduce portion sizes.

• Pain level: Any discomfort is usually low to moderate and short-lived. There are no surgical incisions, so you won’t experience surgical pain.

Importantly, our team provides guidance and medications to keep you comfortable during the initial adjustment period. If you feel severe pain, nausea lasting more than a few days, or any unexpected symptoms, you should contact the clinic immediately. Otherwise, many patients tolerate the balloon well and soon resume normal activities within 1–2 days.

How do you prepare for a gastric balloon procedure?

Preparation helps ensure the procedure goes smoothly. At our Toronto clinic, you will meet with a healthcare professional before the procedure to cover these steps:

• Medical evaluation: We will review your medical history, medications, and any conditions. You may need blood tests or clearances to ensure the balloon is safe for you.

• Dietary prep: We often recommend starting a lighter diet or liquid meals a few days before the balloon is placed. In fact, beginning to eat smaller meals even before the procedure can ease the adjustment.

• Fasting: On the day of the procedure, you will fast (no food or drink) for a certain period, usually overnight, as instructed by the doctor.

• Medication adjustments: You may need to pause certain medications (e.g. aspirin or blood thinners) in the days leading up to the procedure. Our staff will advise you on exactly which medications to stop and when.

• Transportation: Arrange someone to drive you home afterward, since you may be sedated.

By preparing with dietary changes and following pre-op instructions, you’ll help your body adapt more easily. We provide a detailed “pre-op” guide (similar to the instructions here) before your appointment. As noted by our clinic: “Starting a diet before the insertion of your balloon will help the body adjust to smaller food portions and alleviate some hunger”.

What can I eat with a gastric balloon in place?

After a gastric balloon is in your stomach, your diet will be staged gradually to allow your body to adapt. Our recommended diet plan (customized to each patient) generally follows this timeline:

• Days 1–3 (Post-procedure): Clear liquids only. Water, broth, clear juices. This allows your stomach to settle without irritation.

• Days 4–14: Pureed and soft foods. Gradually introduce easily digestible foods (e.g. pureed soup, yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed vegetables). Continue to stay hydrated.

• After 2 weeks: Regular diet in small portions. You can return to normal foods, but portions will be much smaller than before. Chew thoroughly and eat slowly. Focus on lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains.

Throughout the program, patients typically feel full faster with smaller meals, thanks to the balloon. We emphasize high protein and fiber to stay satisfied, and suggest limiting caffeine, carbonation, and very sugary or fatty foods. Our weight-loss coaches will guide you with meal plans and tips. Remember: the balloon is a tool to help you change habits. A sensible, balanced diet with portion control is key for success.

Example: After two weeks, a dinner might be ½ cup of lean chicken with steamed veggies (versus much larger portions previously). Over time, most patients eat normal foods in moderation and maintain new healthy eating habits.

How is a gastric balloon removed?

After the treatment period (typically 4–6 months for saline balloons), the gastric balloon must be taken out. The removal procedure differs slightly by type of balloon:

• Saline balloons (e.g. Orbera): The removal is an outpatient endoscopic procedure. Under sedation or light anesthesia, the doctor uses an endoscope (camera tube) to reach the stomach, punctures the balloon to drain the fluid, then retrieves it through your mouth. This usually takes just 10–15 minutes. Patients wake up and can go home the same day.

• Allurion (swallowable) balloon: This newer balloon does not require an invasive removal procedure. It automatically deflates after about 16 weeks and passes naturally in your stool. You simply let it occur, and we confirm the balloon has exited. No endoscopy or sedation is needed for the Allurion balloon.

In either case, you will be monitored briefly after removal to ensure you’re fully recovered from sedation. Most patients leave within a few hours and resume normal activities. Some providers advise a lighter diet for a day after removal (as with any endoscopy).

Overall, removal is typically quick and painless. As one patient guide notes, “The gastric balloon is removed through the mouth. The procedure is done under sedation or under a general anesthetic and is over quickly”.

What should I expect during a gastric balloon consultation?

Your consultation is an important first step. At our Toronto weight loss clinic, expect a friendly, informative meeting with a gastric specialist (like Dr. Lawrence Cohen, our gastroenterologist). During the consultation:

• Medical review: We’ll discuss your health history, previous weight-loss efforts, and any concerns.

• Examination: A physical exam and possibly lab tests will determine if a gastric balloon is safe and suitable.

• Explanation of procedure: We will explain how the balloon is placed and removed, including benefits and risks. You’ll learn that “the gastric balloon partially fills the stomach causing an early feeling of eating satisfaction,” meaning you can feel full with smaller portions.

• Lifestyle program: Learn about our full six-month support program. We emphasize that weight loss isn’t just the balloon itself, but also the diet and coaching that follow. As the clinic advertises, our program “includes six months of lifestyle and dietary support coaching” to help maintain your results.

• Q&A: This is the time to ask anything — cost, duration, comfort level, etc. We will discuss costs transparently; for example, the Allurion gastric balloon program is listed at about $7,500 CAD (+ tax) for the full package (roughly $8,475 total).

• Next steps: If you choose to proceed, we’ll schedule the procedure, give you prep instructions, and collect payment (typically due one week prior as per our policy). You can call us at 416-962-4444 or use our online form to book this consultation.

By the end of the visit, you should clearly understand how a gastric balloon could help you. We will set realistic expectations — results vary by person, but patients generally see a jump-start in weight loss compared to diet alone. We’ll also ensure you know what lifestyle commitments are needed: regular follow-ups, exercise, and nutrition.

What are the common types of gastric balloons available in Toronto?

There are a few well-known gastric balloon systems used in Toronto:

• Endoscopic Saline Balloons (e.g. Orbera®): This is a traditional balloon filled with saline after placement. It requires an endoscopic procedure for both placement and removal. The balloon typically stays for 6 months, after which it is removed endoscopically. Patients can expect moderate weight loss and the procedure is done under light sedation.

• Swallowable (Elipse/Allurion) Balloon: This pill-sized capsule balloon is unique because it does not need endoscopy or anesthesia. You simply swallow a capsule attached to a catheter. An X-ray confirms it reached the stomach, then the doctor fills it with fluid. After about 16 weeks, it deflates and passes naturally. This method is completely outpatient. Weight loss is similar (~10–15%), but placement/removal are easier for some patients.

• Others: Some clinics use dual-balloon systems (like ReShape®) or adjustable balloons (Spatz3®), but our clinic mainly offers the above two world-class options. Both Orbera and Allurion are FDA/CAN-approved and backed by clinical studies.

Regardless of type, all gastric balloons work on the same principle: increasing stomach fullness with a temporary implant. Allurion’s key advantage is no endoscopy needed. The Orbera system’s advantage is a longer established history and slightly longer in-place time (6 vs 4 months). Your doctor will recommend the best fit based on medical profile and preferences.

Am I a good candidate for a gastric balloon?

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for a gastric balloon. Our clinic follows guidelines to determine eligibility. Generally, good candidates are:

• Adults with obesity: Usually a BMI of 30–40 kg/m² (or 27+ with obesity-related health issues). These are typical ranges considered for non-surgical interventions.

• Committed to lifestyle change: A gastric balloon is a tool, not a cure. You should be ready to stick with diet and exercise plans. We check “you will have an opportunity to try a unique…dietary supplement” and focus on lifestyle.

• No contraindications: You should have no history of stomach ulcers, large hiatal hernia, or gastrointestinal surgery. Active diseases (like untreated reflux) may disqualify you.

• Age & health: Between 18–65 years is common. (If you are over 70 or have certain conditions like low blood pressure, special scheduling might be needed.) Pregnant women are not candidates.

• Motivated: You should want significant weight loss and be dissatisfied with diet/exercise alone. Our clinic notes “Not every person will be a candidate… Every patient’s weight loss needs will be evaluated individually”

We evaluate each person carefully. During consultation, we assess your medical history, current health, and weight-loss goals. If a balloon isn’t right for you, we will discuss alternatives (nutrition programs, exercise coaching, or even surgical options). As one of our guides says, “we have alternatives and will offer you many ‘options’” to reach your goals.

How long does the gastric balloon procedure take, and what is the recovery like?

The placement of a gastric balloon is quick and outpatient. On average, our patients spend 20–30 minutes in the procedure room for placement. Here’s what to expect:

• Duration: About 15–20 minutes for placement (20 minutes quoted for Allurion as well). Orbera balloon placement is similar, usually under light sedation, or in some cases under general anesthesia depending on patient comfort.

• Recovery room: After placement, plan to spend 1–2 hours in our recovery area. Nursing staff will monitor you as the sedation wears off. You’ll receive fluids and be checked for vital signs. Many patients go home the same day.

• Downtime: Most patients feel ready to go home within a few hours. You should rest the remainder of the day, but normal activity can often resume the next day. (Heavy lifting or intense exercise can wait 2–4 days as you adapt.)

• Post-placement: In the first 3–4 days, expect the mild nausea/bloating mentioned earlier. After that, recovery is minimal. You can return to work and normal routines within about 24-48 hours (or as advised). The key is following your diet plan to ensure comfort.

In summary, think of it as a short outpatient procedure with essentially no surgical recovery time. You will drive home with light restrictions for the first day. By the end of the first week, most patients are back to daily life and feeling well.

Patient Success Story

Meet Emily, a 42-year-old teacher from Toronto. For years she battled weight gain despite trying diets. After her second child, she felt exhausted and her weight crept up to 220 lbs. Worried about diabetes (her father has it), Emily visited our Toronto weight loss clinic to discuss non-surgical options.

During her consultation, Dr. Cohen explained the gastric balloon, and Emily liked that it was temporary and didn’t involve surgery. She learned she was a good candidate (BMI ~34) and decided to proceed. The day of the procedure, she fasted overnight and swallowed the deflated Allurion capsule. Within 20 minutes it was inflated with water, and Emily was amazed to feel fuller right away.

The first few days were challenging — nausea and some cramps — but with medication and small sips of ginger tea, Emily managed well. She followed the liquid/soft diet plan closely. By two weeks, she was eating normal foods (just smaller portions) and exercising lightly.

Over the next four months, Emily lost 30 lbs (about 13% of her weight). She felt more energetic, her blood sugar stayed normal, and her clothes fit better. When the balloon passed naturally at 16 weeks, Emily was thrilled to have kept her new habits. She continued the 6-month coaching program, where a dietitian helped her stabilize her weight.

Today, Emily maintains her 190-lb weight, goes for daily walks by Lake Ontario, and volunteers locally. She says, “The gastric balloon jump-started my weight loss. It wasn’t painless, but the support and results were worth it. I feel like I have a new life in Toronto.”

Comparison Table: Gastric Balloon vs. Other Weight Loss Options

Table: Comparisons of gastric balloons (endoscopic and swallowable) with other common weight-loss approaches. In general, gastric balloons provide greater weight loss than diet alone but less than bariatric surgery. However, they avoid major surgery risks and have shorter recovery. As one study notes, the Allurion program (balloon + coaching) can lead to “nearly 2.5 times the weight loss” compared to diet alone.

Choosing the right option depends on your health, weight-loss goals, and comfort with risk. Our Toronto specialists can help you compare these methods in detail.

Take the Next Step in Toronto

Considering a gastric balloon? Our Toronto weight loss clinic is ready to help you make an informed decision. We offer consultations in Downtown Toronto (890-A Yonge St) by appointment or walk-in.

• Book by phone: Call 416-962-4444 to schedule your consultation with one of our gastroenterologists.

• Online booking: Use the Book Appointment form on our website (no link, just mention you have an online system).

• Walk-ins welcome: Drop by our clinic during business hours to speak with a coordinator.

During your visit, we will answer any questions about procedure details, costs (typically ~$7,500 + tax for the Allurion program, financing options, and our comprehensive support. Our goal is to provide a safe, effective non-surgical weight loss experience for Toronto adults.

Ready to start? Contact us today at 416-962-4444 or visit us in person. Take charge of your health with Toronto’s trusted non-surgical weight loss team.