Whenever patients are considering weight loss procedures, the first thing they need to make sure of is to be determined enough to follow through with every aspect of their treatment pogram so the the procedure is worth it. This is also the case with the Orbera gastric balloon. And even though the results are guaranteed, the amount of lost weight from the procedure will vary from patient to patient. Still, patients can do a few things to maximize the benefits of this endoscopic, non-surgical procedure to get back on track and improve their overall health.
That said, in this article, we’re talking about the Orbera balloon procedure, discussing the procedure itself, the weight loss process, and the results that patients may expect from it.
Orbera Weight Loss: Exploring The Numbers
As mentioned above, gastric balloon results will vary from person to person. Still, in optimal cases, the patients who opt for ballon surgery may even lose as much as 47% of their starting weight during the first half a year. Still, it’s important to note that these results are more on the rare side, and the actual weight loss results will highly depend on the patient’s starting weight, motivation level, dedication to exercise, and diet. If they overeat, they might not fulfill the expected results.
On a more realistic note, the most patient will, on average, lose around 10.2% of their initial weight. To put things into perspective, in the case of a 400-pound patient, the total weight loss amount will be around 42 pounds during the six-month treatment. Still, this isn’t the rule for everybody. Those who are willing or capable of exercising more and motivated enough to follow their meal plans can lose around 30 to 40 pounds with Orbera.
In general, this method can enable patients to shed up to three times the amount of weight in six months compared to relying solely on diet and exercise. Nevertheless, it is imperative to dedicate oneself to the ongoing habit of consuming smaller portions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle even after the removal of the balloon. Failing to do so will result in gradual weight regain. It’s essential to acknowledge that this approach isn’t a permanent remedy for weight loss unless these commitments are upheld; however, it can facilitate rapid weight reduction.
About The Orbera Gastric Balloon
Under the influence of mild sedation, a specialized endoscopic tube will be introduced through your throat and into your stomach. Through this tube, a silicone balloon will be carefully inserted into your stomach, subsequently being filled with saline solution.
This grapefruit-sized balloon occupies a substantial part of your stomach, resulting in a sensation of fullness with a smaller food intake. The balloon remains within the stomach for a duration of up to six months, after which it is deflated and extracted through another endoscopic procedure.
Balloon Surgery and Recovery
Fortunately, the recovery time for the Orbera gastric balloon is short, but patients will have to face some restrictions afterward. For instance, strenuous activities should be avoided for at least a week. Also, the body will need some time to adjust to the balloon, but after that happens, patients can safely return to most normal activities without any restrictions. Still, they won’t be able to go bungee jumping, SCUBA diving, or skydiving while the balloon is inside their body.
Furthermore, those who opt for Orbera weight loss are encouraged to take a few days off of work to let their body better adjust to the balloon, even though this isn’t mandatory. Also, after the first week with the Orbera gastric balloon, patients are encouraged to start the exercise routine that they’ve previously determined with their medical team.
Orbera Weight Loss: Eating Rules To Follow
Right after balloon surgery, patients will have to undergo a 10-day long liquid diet. During this period, patients will lose a considerable amount of weight, even capable of losing anywhere between nine to 18 pounds. Generally, patients will feel a bit more hungry after two weeks, but they will get full really fast, avoiding the risk of overeating.
On that note, some patients have reported that only a few tablespoons of yogurt are enough to quench their hunger. Still, overeating isn’t difficult with the gastric balloon, so patients must notice when they are full and stop eating. That said, those who are experiencing acid reflux, bloatedness, hiccups, or indigestion have probably overeaten.
The appetite of the patient will probably increase even more from about six weeks on, but it will return to normal levels. Also, patients will increase the amount of food they eat, but still, they will have to listen to their bodies and stop whenever they feel full.
The Rules for the Best Gastric Balloon Results
Patients should adhere to three fundamental rules to maximize the benefits of the Orbera procedure and prevent weight regain once the balloon is removed. Adhering to these rules is crucial for long-term success in maintaining weight loss. Learning proper eating habits while the balloon is still in place is more advantageous than having to make sudden dietary adjustments after its removal.
Concentrating on small portions
Patients are encouraged to use dessert plates instead of dinner-size plates to reduce portion sizes. They should also use small cups to limit liquid intake as well. Patients aren’t encouraged to eat everything on their plate, even if they’ve only got a palm-sized serving. They should stop eating when they are full to avoid overeating. And put the remaining food away for the next meal. This won’t only stop patients from overeating but will also help them build restraint and develop healthier eating habits.
Eating Slowly
For individuals undergoing this process, it’s essential to recognize that eating slowly plays a pivotal role in determining when they reach fullness. There exists a time lag between the moment their stomach becomes full and when their brain registers this fullness. Hence, each meal, no matter its size, should ideally span a minimum of 20 minutes. It’s advisable to chew each bite meticulously and to set down utensils between bites. Additionally, sipping beverages should be done cautiously to avoid filling the stomach with liquid rather than food, which can result in a bloated sensation.
Waiting Before Eating Again
Patients should know that the message between the brain and the stomach can be delayed, so it’s wise to wait at least half an hour after eating before going back for seconds. Eating too much too soon may increase the risk of overeating and may even make patients uncomfortable.
Summing up Gastric Ballon Surgery
Orbera gastric balloon weight loss outcomes can differ from one patient to another, contingent upon various factors. These factors encompass the patient’s initial weight, existing obesity-related medical problems, and the extent to which they adhere to a low-calorie diet and exercise regimen.
During the initial three months of the program, the Orbera balloon typically yields rapid weight reduction, with the most substantial weight loss occurring within this period. As long as the patient persists in following their prescribed diet and exercise routine, the weight loss trajectory should continue. In most cases, patients achieve a weight loss ranging from 10% to 20% of their overall body weight within the initial six months.
For More Questions and Concerns
If you’d like to learn more about weight loss treatment options and other bariatric procedures, feel free to reach out to us today. Our experts are ready to help you.