What is Swallowable Gastric Balloon? Non-Surgical Weight Loss Method

Non-surgical weight loss options have attracted more and more attention in recent years. Especially for people who say “I don’t want surgery, but I can’t lose weight on my own”, digestible gastric balloon (also known as digestible balloon) stands out as a practical alternative. Unlike conventional balloons, which are inserted endoscopically into the stomach, this method is ingested in most patients and is designed to be self-emptying and naturally expelled after a certain period of time.

In this article, we will comprehensively cover topics such as “what is a swallowable gastric balloon?”, “how is a swallowable gastric balloon applied?”, “who is suitable/not suitable?”, “how much weight loss does it cause?”, “side effects” and curious “prices of swallowable gastric balloon”. We will also support your decision process by making a comparison with endoscopic slimming methods.

Note: This content is for general information purposes. Obesity treatment and gastric balloon applications require individualized evaluation; the most accurate plan is determined by a physician examination.

What is an ingestible gastric balloon, how does it work?

Ingestible gastric balloon is a balloon system that is swallowed orally in capsule form and after reaching the stomach, it is inflated with liquid/gas and takes up space in the stomach. Rather than “physically reducing” the volume of the stomach, it aims to increase the feeling of early satiety thanks to the space it occupies in the stomach. This can reduce portions, make meal control easier and lower daily calorie intake.

This method is often attractive for people looking for non-surgical weight loss because

• There are usually no incisions, less need for endoscopy/anesthesia in most patients (depending on the individual and the protocol of the center).
• The procedure is relatively quick.
• After a certain period of time, the balloon self-emptying and is naturally excreted from the body.

The swallowable balloon is not a “miracle solution”; it is a support method whose effect increases when applied together with nutrition plan, behavior change and movement. For this reason, many centers carry out the process together with dietitian follow-up and regular check-ups. For a broader overview, you can also take a look at our obesity treatment page.

How to apply an ingestible gastric balloon (Step-by-step process)

the answer to the question “How is a swallowable gastric balloon administered?” is critical for those who want to know the patient journey. The process usually proceeds in the following steps:

1) Initial assessment and compliance

During the medical examination, your weight history, existing diseases, medications and goals will be evaluated. In some cases, blood tests and additional examinations may be requested. This stage is important for the safe creation of an obesity treatment plan.

2) Balloon engulfment and position control

The swallowable balloon is usually swallowed through the mouth like a capsule. Whether the balloon reaches the stomach can be checked by imaging methods according to the practice of the center. After the capsule reaches the stomach, inflation is performed through a thin catheter and the catheter is removed.

3) First days Adaptation period

In the first few days, as the stomach gets used to the balloon, complaints such as nausea, cramps and bloating may occur. The medications, fluid intake and nutritional transition plan recommended by your physician will help you to spend this period more comfortably.

4) Follow-up and lifestyle plan

The best results are obtained when the balloon is not applied “alone” but in combination with a dietitian plan, portion control, protein-based nutrition, regular exercise and sleep. This process is the basic logic of the endoscopic weight loss approach. For related content, you can review our article endoscopic slimming.

5) How is the balloon removed / how is it disposed of?

This is one of the important differences of swallowable gastric balloons: Most systems are designed to self-empty after a certain period of time and the balloon is disposed of naturally through the intestines. the “removal” may not usually require a scheduled endoscopy as with conventional endoscopic balloons, but this depends on the balloon system used and the patient’s condition. Therefore, follow-up appointments should not be neglected.

For whom is it suitable and for whom is it not suitable?

The swallowable balloon can be an effective support in the right patient. However, it is not “suitable for everyone”. This section clarifies “who is suitable for an ingestible gastric balloon” and “who is not suitable for an ingestible gastric balloon”, both of which are highly sought-after questions.

Who may be suitable for?

After physician assessment, the following profiles are usually considered

• People with a body mass index (BMI/BMI) within a certain range who do not want surgery or are not suitable for surgery
• Those who have difficulty losing weight through diet and exercise, but are willing to make lifestyle changes
• People who are looking for a “kick-start” for weight loss and can commit to a regular follow-up program
• those who want a less invasive option among non-surgical weight loss methods

Who may not be suitable for (examples of contraindications)

An ingestible gastric balloon may not be recommended or additional evaluation may be required in the following cases:

• Gastric problems such as active gastric ulcer, severe gastritis
• Severe reflux complaints or some gastric anatomy problems (e.g. suspicion of large hiatal hernia)
• Some previous gastrointestinal surgeries
• Pregnancy or pregnancy plan (according to physician’s recommendation)
• Dysphagia, history of significant eating disorders
• Co-morbidities and drug use that the physician finds risky

The basic message here is this: The safest and most effective plan is determined by a personalized medical examination. If you are wondering “am I a suitable candidate?”, as a first step, you can review the information on our gastric balloon evaluation page.

How many pounds does an ingestible gastric balloon make you lose? Raising realistic expectations and success

the question “How many pounds does a swallowable gastric balloon make you lose?” is one of the most searched topics. The important thing here is to know that weight loss cannot be guaranteed by a single number. Results will depend on your starting weight, metabolic status, dietary compliance, level of movement and the quality of the follow-up program.

Generally swallowable gastric balloon:

• Facilitates portion control
• May help reduce snacking frequency
• May increase motivation by lowering the “starting threshold” for dieting

Factors affecting weight loss

• Nutrition plan: Liquid/semi-solid transitions, protein and fiber balance, meal pattern
• Behavior change: Habits such as emotional eating, fast eating, night eating
• Activity: Regular walking and strength exercises support fat loss
• Sleep and stress: May increase appetite by affecting hormonal balance

Will the weight come back after the balloon is removed?

This is also a common question. The continuation of weight control after the balloon is removed depends on making the habits acquired during the balloon process permanent. Therefore, it would be more accurate to think of the process as a behavior change program within the scope of obesity treatment instead of the “I had a balloon inserted and it’s over” approach.

Side effects, risks and when to consult a doctor?

As with any medical procedure, the swallowable gastric balloon can cause side effects. The most common complaints are usually transient and may be more pronounced in the first few days:

Common side effects

• Nausea, vomiting
• Abdominal cramps, bloating
• Reflux/burning sensation
• Fatigue due to rapid changes in appetite and meal patterns

The medications, fluid consumption and nutritional transition plan recommended by your doctor will help you manage this period.

Alarm symptoms (may require immediate evaluation)

In the following cases, it is recommended that you contact your health care provider immediately:

• Severe and persistent abdominal pain
• Constant vomiting and inability to drink fluids
• Bloody vomit or black stools
• High fever, fainting, severe weakness
• Inability to pass gas/feces suggestive of intestinal obstruction

This section is important for trust in health content: Side effects should not be “ignored” and risks should be minimized with proper follow-up and patient selection.

Swallowable balloon or endoscopic gastric balloon (Comparison)

At the decision stage, users search for “injectable gastric balloon or endoscopic gastric balloon?”. Both methods can be considered within endoscopic weight loss and obesity treatment approaches; however, their processes are different.

Main differences (general framework)

• Method of application: The swallowable balloon is usually swallowed; the endoscopic gastric balloon is inserted by endoscopy.
• Removal/disposal: The swallowable balloon is usually discharged spontaneously; the endoscopic balloon is often removed by planned endoscopy.
• Comfort and planning: It depends on the individual; the physician decides which method is more appropriate.
• Need for follow-up: In both methods, regular follow-up, nutrition and lifestyle planning are critical for success.

The most accurate version of this comparison is made together with the physician based on your health history and goals.

Prices for an ingestible gastric balloon (2026): Factors affecting the price

a search for “Prices for swallowable gastric balloons” usually indicates an intention for commercial research. However, it can often be misleading to give a single clear figure in this area, as prices vary according to package content and individual needs.

The main factors affecting the price of an ingestible gastric balloon:

• The balloon system/brand used and the duration of the balloon stay in the stomach
• Number of examinations, tests and controls
• Dietitian follow-up (how many visits included?)
• Possible additional medications and supportive therapies
• City, clinic infrastructure and team experience
• Scope of the tracking program (online tracking, emergency hotline, etc.)

The healthiest approach is to evaluate the safest and best follow-up program instead of the “cheapest”. For detailed information, you can review the package contents on our gastric balloon prices page and ask for a clear plan to be created specifically for you after the examination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does a swallowable gastric balloon hurt?

Swallowing is usually similar to swallowing a capsule. In the first days, cramps and nausea may occur during the stomach adaptation process; it can be managed in most people with the support of a physician.

Do I need anesthesia?

In many protocols, the need for anesthesia is less with the swallowable balloon; however, in terms of comfort and safety, the process may vary depending on the center and the patient.

What happens if an ingestible gastric balloon bursts?

The systems are usually designed for controlled emptying over a period of time. Nevertheless, in case of unusual symptoms, a doctor should be consulted.

When to do sports?

Light walking may be recommended in the first days; for more intense exercise, a gradual transition is made according to the physician/dietitian plan.

Can people with reflux have it done?

Additional evaluation may be required in patients with reflux complaints. In some people, reflux may increase; therefore, the physician’s decision is important.

Conclusion: Strong support for weight loss without surgery, but the right plan is essential

**Swallowable gastric balloon is a modern method that can facilitate the process of weight loss without surgery when applied in the right person and with the right follow-up program. However, the key to success is to proceed with appropriate candidate selection, close follow-up, nutrition regimen and behavioral change. If you want to find out if the swallowable balloon is suitable for you, you can get information from our related pages or schedule an expert evaluation: *obesity-treatment and endoscopic-slimming.