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Gastric Balloon
The gastric balloon is introduced into the stomach through the mouth. The surgeon conducts an initial examination of the stomach using an endoscopic camera, and will proceed if no abnormalities are observed

Once the balloon is inside the stomach, it is immediately filled with sterile saline through a small filling tube (catheter) attached to the balloon. Once filled, the surgeon removes the catheter by gently pulling on the external end. The balloon has a self-sealing valve, and at this point the balloon is floating freely in the stomach.

Placement times vary but it will usually take 20-30 minutes, after which you will be monitored by your consultant for a short time and then may return home.

The balloon currently can be used for six months as over time the acidic content of the stomach will weaken the balloon material and cause the balloon to deflate. Should your surgeon recommend use of the balloon for longer than six months, it is necessary that the balloon be replaced with a new one when the six-month interval has been met.

The balloon is normally removed in the same way it was placed, via the mouth.  As with the placement of the balloon the surgeon will introduce a catheter through the mouth and into the stomach. The balloon will then be punctured and deflated. Once the balloon is deflated it can be grasped and removed.

Gastric Band
The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic and usually takes between one and two hours.

The laparoscopic (‘keyhole’) technique is usually used. Your surgeon will make several small cuts on your abdomen. They will place surgical instruments, along with a telescope, inside your abdomen and perform the operation.

Your surgeon will create a tunnel behind your stomach. They will pass the band around the upper part of your stomach and secure it. This creates a smaller upper pouch. To help keep the band in place, they will fold some of the lower stomach over the band and stitch it to the upper stomach pouch.

You will normally remain in hospital overnight to ensure that the band is securely in place and that you have had no significant side effects.