Balloon May Hold Key to Weight Loss for Some

Obesity is a serious health concern that is estimated to impact about a third of the American population. Strongly linked to diabetes, some forms of cancer, heart disease and a long list of other serious illnesses, tackling obesity once and for all is a priority for many. While surgical weight loss procedures have shown tremendous results in helping those with obesity lose weight and keep it off, invasive interventions are not recommended in all cases. When they’re not, a relatively new non-surgical alternative may offer the assistance people require to jumpstart weight loss efforts. Called the Elipse Balloon, this procedure provides temporary weight loss assistance that can help put people on a path to long-term success.

 The balloon procedure is rather unique. It requires an outpatient visit to a doctor during which a little pill is swallowed. The pill has the balloon inside and a catheter attached to it. Once the pill is in the stomach, the catheter is used to fill the balloon with liquid. Once fully filled, the balloon effectively occupies a large amount of the stomach’s space. It remains in place for a few months, promoting weight loss, before it opens on its own and is excreted out of the body.

 Less invasive and not permanent like surgery, the balloon procedure has shown tremendous results in helping people shed pounds. It does so by mimicking the effects of actual surgical procedures by forcing a smaller stomach holding capacity and helping people feel fuller faster. One study found that patients lost an average of more than 33 pounds during the balloon’s use over the course of 16 weeks.

 Although not considered a surgical replacement, the balloon is helping those who either cannot undergo surgery or simply do not want to. It is also proving very helpful in assisting those who need to shed some weight before a more permanent surgical intervention can be considered. 

 If obesity is a concern, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider. Losing weight can dramatically lower risks for serious, health-related concerns.

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