Experience significant weight loss with a gastric balloon in Melbourne at BetterLife Surgery. Under the expert care of Dr Mo Atalla, the Orbera balloon or Allurion balloon help you control portion sizes and feel fuller faster, supporting long-term, sustainable weight loss.
Reduce Stomach Size and
Feel Fuller Faster
A gastric balloon is a weight loss surgery that involves placing a balloon inside your stomach to help you feel fuller after eating smaller portions. There are two main types available at BetterLife Surgery: the Orbera and Allurion balloons. Both options are minimally invasive, with the Orbera balloon requiring endoscopic placement and the Allurion balloon being swallowed as a capsule. Both balloons support lasting weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes and ongoing care under Dr Mo Atalla’s guidance.
Benefits of Gastric Balloon:
- Minimally invasive procedure
- No permanent alterations to the stomach
- Helps control portion sizes and reduce overeating
- Quick recovery with minimal downtime
- Ideal for those who may not be suitable for primary bariatric surgery
- Provides significant weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes
- Temporary solution, offering flexibility for future options
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and discover if the gastric balloon in Melbourne is the right weight-loss solution for you.
Your Options for Gastric Balloon Procedures in Melbourne
At BetterLife Surgery, we offer two types of gastric balloon procedures to support weight loss: the Orbera balloon and the Allurion balloon. Both work by reducing the space in your stomach, helping you feel fuller sooner and eat less. Here’s how each one promotes weight loss:
Orbera Balloon
The Orbera balloon is a silicone device that’s placed inside your stomach through endoscopy, where a small camera is used to guide the placement. Once inserted, the balloon is filled with a sterile saline solution to a size that takes up space in your stomach. The balloon causes you to feel fuller after eating only small amounts, making it easier to reduce your overall calorie intake and lose weight. After six months, the balloon is removed in a simple procedure.
Allurion Balloon
The Allurion balloon is unique because it’s swallowed in the form of a small capsule, which is then filled with liquid through a thin tube placed in your stomach—no endoscopic procedure. Once filled, the balloon works the same way as the Orbera balloon – by taking up space in your stomach, making you feel full after smaller meals. The balloon remains in your stomach for about four months, after which it deflates and passes through your digestive system.
*Individual Results May Vary
How much weight can I lose with gastric balloon?
The amount of weight you can lose with a gastric balloon in Melbourne varies, but many patients experience significant results. On average, you may lose 10-15% of your total body weight during the time the balloon is in place. The key to success is combining the balloon with healthy eating habits and lifestyle changes. Dr Mo Atalla and our team will guide you through the process to maximise your weight loss results.
Potential Side Effects or Risks of Gastric Balloon:
- Nausea and vomiting, especially in the first few days
- Abdominal discomfort or bloating
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Feeling full quickly or early satiety
- Indigestion or acid reflux
- Possible intolerance to certain foods or liquids
- Rare risk of balloon deflation or displacement
Life After Gastric Balloon: What You Can Expect
After your gastric balloon procedure, you’ll likely experience a feeling of fullness after eating smaller portions. This helps you manage your food intake and reduce cravings. While the balloon is in place, you’ll need to follow a healthy eating plan, exercise regularly, and attend follow-up appointments with Dr Mo Atalla and our team. However, you must retain your healthy lifestyle habits after the balloon is removed to ensure sustainable results.
Gastric Balloon FAQs
How Long Does the Gastric Balloon Stay In My Stomach?
The Orbera balloon typically stays in your stomach for six months, while the Allurion balloon remains for around four months. After this period, the balloon is removed (Orbera) or naturally passes out of your system (Allurion).
Will I Experience Pain During the Procedure?
The Orbera balloon requires a short endoscopy, done under light sedation. Most patients report feeling minimal discomfort. The Allurion balloon is swallowed as a capsule, so no sedation or endoscopy is needed, making the process even simpler.
Can I Eat Normally With a Gastric Balloon?
While the balloon reduces the space in your stomach, you can still eat. However, you’ll find that smaller portions will leave you feeling satisfied. Following the diet and lifestyle advice from Dr Mo Atalla and the team will help you get the most from the balloon.
Can I Gain the Weight Back After the Balloon Is Removed?
While the gastric balloon helps you lose weight, the real challenge comes after it’s removed. The key to maintaining weight loss is adopting long-term lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. Dr Mo Atalla and the BetterLife Surgery team, including our dietitians, will provide ongoing support to help you stay on track.
Why Choose Dr Mo Atalla for Gastric Balloon in Melbourne?
Dr Mo Atalla is a highly experienced bariatric surgeon and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) dedicated to helping you achieve safe and sustainable weight loss. The gastric balloon in Melbourne is a proven method for controlling portion sizes, allowing you to lose weight gradually while maintaining your health. Contact BetterLife Surgery today to schedule a consultation and explore your gastric balloon options.