Swallowable Gastric Pill Balloon for Weight Loss in India

The swallowable gastric balloon is a capsule containing a deflated, medical-grade silicone balloon. It is designed to support weight loss without surgery, endoscopy, or anaesthesia.

Once inflated, it partially occupies stomach space, producing effects that support weight loss:

• Early fullness due to reduced stomach capacity

• Slower gastric emptying, keeping you full for longer

• Improved hunger regulation through hormonal changes

Unlike traditional weight loss procedures, this balloon is temporary. It remains in the stomach for a set duration and then naturally exits the body once its programmed lifecycle ends. No hospital visit is needed for removal.

The swallowable intragastric balloon works best when combined with personalised diet and lifestyle guidance.

It is also important to know that all obese individuals cannot get an intragastric balloon for weight loss. There is a very simple criterion for one to be eligible for the same. It includes:

1. High Body Mass Index (BMI): Eligibility is case-specific and not only based on BMI above 27 or Class III obesity. A doctor evaluates BMI, medical history, and previous gastric/abdominal surgeries before approving the balloon.

2. Age: Anyone above the age of 18 can undergo weight loss ballooning.

3. Class III Obesity: A swallowable balloon may be considered, but eligibility is not guaranteed and must be medically evaluated.

4. Bariatric Surgery: Extremely high body weight may make immediate bariatric surgery unsuitable; a swallowable balloon may help reduce weight before surgery.

The following factors may exclude a person from the procedure or require further medical/specialist assessment.

1. Contraindications / Cautionary Conditions: Significant hiatal hernia, uncontrolled severe GERD, major prior abdominal/gastric/oesophageal surgery, severe gastric motility disorders, or active GI pathology usually require specialist evaluation and may preclude placement.

2. Swallowing Difficulties: If you cannot safely swallow the capsule, alternative placement methods or exclusion may be necessary. This is assessed during consultation.

3. Eating Disorders: Active eating disorders (for example, uncontrolled bulimia or binge-eating) should undergo psychological assessment and treatment before consideration.

4. Pregnancy / Breastfeeding: Pregnant or breastfeeding people are not eligible.

Note: These factors can guide whether someone may be suited for a swallowable intragastric balloon weight-loss program. However, the final decision should always be made after a doctor’s evaluation.

Benefits of Swallowable Intragastric Ballooning Procedure

The swallowable balloon procedure for weight loss is safe and does not require any incisions. An overweight patient can consider this treatment to improve confidence, self-esteem and aesthetics.

Following are the benefits of the procedure:

1. No Incision or Anaesthesia: No anaesthesia or any surgical incisions are required in this process. Patients with a fear of surgery can opt for it as a painless alternative to other methods of weight loss.

2. No Hospitalisation Required: The balloon placement is an outpatient procedure, so it does not require the need for hospitalisation of the patient. The patient may be kept under observation for half an hour to an hour.

3. Safe and Convenient: Swallowable ballooning offers one of the safest procedures for weight loss.

4. Fast Procedure: Placing a capsule gastric balloon does not take more than 15 to 20 minutes, making it a very quick balloon placement procedure.

5. Less to No Discomfort: The gastric balloon rarely causes any discomfort in the stomach region. It is made of silicone material, so it may or may not cause any problems while inside.

By the time of the end of the program, the body gets used to the new diet with healthy eating habits that last a lifetime. This helps in preventing overeating or binge eating as the stomach feels fuller for longer periods.

The gastric balloon for weight loss insertion process be understood with the following steps:

1. The patient visits the doctor as a normal outpatient visit.

2. The doctor asks a few questions about the existing symptoms and family history to make him comfortable. He will also explain the whole procedure in detail.

3. The doctor may ask the patient to sign a consent form regarding the understanding of the procedure.
   
   

4. Now, the patient has to swallow the capsule or the pill with the help of water while the doctor holds the catheter’s other end in hand.

5. With each gulp of water, the capsule pushes down the oesophagus and reaches the stomach soon.

6. At this stage, the doctor performs an x-ray of the abdomen to check if the capsule has reached the right place in the stomach.

7. Once confirmed, the doctor starts filling about 550 ml of water into the deflated balloon capsule via the catheter.

8. The doctor performs another x-ray after filling the balloon. This is done to check if the water-filled balloon is placed at the correct place.

9. Now the catheter is pulled out, and the patient is good to go!
   

The balloon occupies space → increases fullness → reduces appetite → enables sustained weight loss.

Now, even after the removal of the balloon, the stomach is used to the reduced appetite. This is how a swallowable gastric balloon helps in weight loss and reducing obesity, just like endoscopic intragastric ballooning.

The release valve opens after ~16 weeks, the balloon self-deflates, and it passes naturally through the digestive system. It does not degrade or “flush out” chemically.

Patients must be able to swallow the capsule independently; if not, a thin guidewire may be used under supervision. The balloon is radiopaque, so its position can be seen via X-ray anytime.

Note: A trained Allurion-certified specialist must perform the placement. Make sure to clear any doubts related to the whole process before undergoing it.

The process involves a very short time period. Prior consultation with a doctor helps them advise a suitable lifestyle plan for an effective weight loss journey for the patient.

Before the Allurion Balloon Procedure

1. Increase Water Intake: It is important to empty out any solid residues in the stomach for proper balloon placement. Drinking at least 2 to 2.5 litres of water or other liquids daily is necessary.

2. Medications: Inform your doctor of any medications you are taking, as adjustments may be needed. The doctor may prescribe certain medications. Follow the schedule as the doctor says.

3. Fasting: Avoid solid food for 6 hours and clear liquids for 2 hours before placement.

4. Swallowing Preparation: Your doctor may suggest specific measures to make swallowing the capsule easier.

On the Day of the Weight Loss Balloon Procedure

1. The doctor may ask for the patient’s consent after informing them about the risks, benefits and other details of the procedure.
   

2. You will swallow the capsule, which is attached to a thin catheter, under medical supervision.
   

3. An X-ray will confirm the capsule's correct placement in the stomach.The balloon will then be inflated via the catheter, followed by second X-ray to confirm its position and inflation.
   

4. The catheter will be gently removed.

The swallowable gastric balloon capsule for weight loss placement is a very short procedure of about 15 to 20 minutes.

The patient’s body will take some time to adapt to the regular diet after the placement of the swallowable balloon.

The Recovery Process in the Hospital

The procedure does not require any surgical intervention so there is no need for hospitalisation. But 30–60 minutes of observation is standard.

Recovery Process/Expectations After Hospital Discharge

Diet: Your diet will progress in phases (clear liquids → full liquids → semi-solid → soft → normal diet) as per dietitian guidance.

Medication: Anti-nausea or acid-reducing medicines may be prescribed. Antibiotics are not routinely required.

What to Expect After Placement

After your intragastric balloon is placed, your body begins adjusting to the new space in your stomach. The first few days are usually the most intense, but things gradually become easier. Below is what you can expect after the placement:

• Common Side Effects: Temporary nausea, abdominal cramps, bloating, or fatigue are common during the first few days. These usually resolve within a week as your body adjusts.

• Hydration and Medication: Maintain adequate fluid intake and follow prescribed medications such as anti-nausea or acid-reducing agents.
  

• First Follow-up Appointment: Regular consultations are required after the balloon placement for continuous 6 months to monitor changes. Your assigned dietitian will monitor your progress on Day 1, Day 3, Day 15, Day 21, and every 15 days until the balloon passes naturally.

Note: For any concerns, please reach out to your Dietitian or the Patient Experience Team.

The swallowable gastric balloon helps reduce obesity by reducing the patient’s appetite by making them used to a lower appetite. If the treatment of obesity is delayed, it may pose the following risks to health:

1. Sleep Disorders: People with obesity may find it difficult to fall asleep. They may develop sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea, in which the breathing suddenly stops and starts while sleeping.
   

2. Hypertension: Obesity increases the risk of developing high blood pressure or hypertension. This further increases the risk of heart disease.
   

3. Heart Diseases: If obesity is left untreated for a long time, it can reduce heart function and elevate the risk of heart disease.
   

4. Type 2 Diabetes: Excess fat storage is a major complication of obesity. It can increase insulin resistance which can promote the development of type 2 diabetes.
   

5. Osteoarthritis: Excessive body weight in obesity increases the pressure on the joints such as knees. It can further elevate, increase inflammation, and develop conditions such as osteoarthritis.

If obesity is left untreated, some problems may become a permanent part of a patient’s life.

1. Poor Quality of Life: With the development of multiple complications due to obesity, the patient’s life quality can degrade. Health conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, etc. increase the dependency on treatments, and a patient may have to live their whole life while managing these chronic conditions.
   

2. Reduced Life Expectancy: Obesity is a major cause for reducing life longevity. This is because conditions such as hypertension and heart disease can be fatal if left untreated.

The cost of the swallowable weight loss balloon procedure varies from city to city. Below are the approximate cost ranges for major cities:

The swallowable gastric ballon price can vary based on multiple factors. Some of these factors include:

1. The doctor’s or hospital’s consultation fee

2. Diagnostic exams to check risks, if any

3. The patient's present medical status

4. Age of the patient

5. Type of hospital chosen for the procedure

6. The city or location of the hospital

Balloon Replacement Policy

If your balloon experiences a device-related issue (e.g., premature deflation or structural defect) within 90 days of placement, a replacement balloon will be provided at no additional product cost. However, doctor and hospital fees for the replacement procedure will apply.

To Claim a Replacement

1. Return the expelled or retrieved balloon to HexaHealth

2. Provide a recent CT scan of your abdomen.

3. Complete and submit the Balloon Replacement Claim Form (assistance will be provided).

Note: Procedure-related costs (consultation, hospital, or placement fees) are not covered under the replacement policy.

Patient Rights and Legal Information

Understanding your rights and responsibilities is an important part of beginning the gastric balloon journey. The following points outline the legal guidelines, warranty terms, and your role in ensuring a safe and successful experience:

1. Informed Consent: All procedures carry potential risks. Common risks and possible complications will be clearly explained to you before placement, ensuring your informed consent.

2. Warranty Scope: The warranty covers manufacturer or device defects only and does not extend to complications arising from non-compliance, medical negligence, or improper aftercare.

3. Patient Responsibility: Adherence to dietary, medication, and follow-up guidelines is essential to maintain warranty eligibility.

4. Liability Limitation: Allurion and associated healthcare providers are not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from product use or misuse.

5. Acceptance of Terms: Undergoing the gastric balloon procedure constitutes acceptance of the stated terms, warranty limitations, and privacy policy.

Diet and exercise alone may not be effective in extreme cases of obesity. Not treating it in time can lead to several complications, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, etc.

Consulting with a doctor can help with the timely treatment of obesity. The doctor can advise on a customised treatment plan for each patient.

You can contact the experts at HexaHealth to know the best treatment options available for obesity. We can be your companion from the beginning to the surgical after-care stage.