The intragastric balloon is considered to be a more minor procedure, as it is not as invasive and can be carried out under sedation. The procedure involves passing a tube down your oesophagus (gullet) into the stomach. At the end of the tube is a collapsed silicone balloon that is filled with about 600ml of saline. The space taken up by the balloon in your stomach means you only need small amounts of food to feel full, therefore you eat less and this helps you to lose weight.
Intragastric Balloon
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The intragastric balloon can be left in your stomach up to a maximum of 6 months, after which time it must be removed or there is a risk it can gradually deflate, leave the stomach and block the intestine. The aim during this 6 month spell is that the intragastric balloon with help train you to eat less, so that the weight loss can be maintained even after the balloon is removed. Sometimes this procedure is performed as a temporary measure to help severely obese people lose some weight ahead a more permanent procedure, thus making the second procedure safer.
During the 6 months the average weight loss achieved is 2 – 3 stones.
How it works
Introducing: The Allurion Balloon
A new and improved gastric balloon that does not require sedation is now available, and we are excited to offer the Allurion balloon at Phoenix Health for our patients seeking effective weight loss solutions.
Fitting the Allurion Balloon takes about 15 minutes!
The balloon comes in a capsule attached to a thin filling tube. You swallow the capsule with a glass of water and once your doctor checks the balloon is in your stomach with a quick x-ray, the balloon is filled with fluid. The filling tube is then gently removed leaving the balloon in your stomach.
Watch the video to see how it’s done
How it Works
MONTH 1
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE COACHING
Meet your dietitian, begin nutritional and exercise coaching and learn how to maximise the impact of the Allurion program.
MONTH 2-5
WEIGHT LOSS WITH THE Allurion BALLOON
The Allurion Balloon is swallowed during a simple outpatient procedure that does not require surgery, endoscopy, or anaesthesia.
Diet and healthy lifestyle coaching continues.
We provide you with a set of smart scales which wirelessly connect to an app, allowing your dietitian to track your progress and offer real life advice and support.
After four months, the balloon empties and passes naturally without the need for any medical procedure.
MONTH 6-12
STAY MOTIVATED
After the balloon passes, you have regained control over your eating habits and your team will help you continue making healthy nutrition and lifestyle choices for long-term weight management.
Allurion Aftercare
Living with the Allurion Balloon
You may experience some nausea and discomfort during the first week after the balloon is fitted, but we will supply you with medications to make you feel more comfortable. We will provide detailed information regarding the risks and benefits of the Allurion™
Eating with the Allurion Balloon
We may recommend that you only drink liquids for the first couple of days and that you move to solid foods when comfortable. The Allurion balloon will help you feel fuller allowing you to eat smaller portions. Advice will be given throughout the programme on following a healthy balanced diet, mindful eating and changing habits to achieve optimal results.
Removing the Allurion Balloon*
The Allurion Balloon removes itself – no need to visit your doctor. After about 16 weeks part of the balloon dissolves, and the balloon will then empty itself and pass naturally.
To find out if you’re eligible for the Allurion Balloon, please get in touch with our friendly team today by filling in the contact form below or calling us on 03452 515 515.
Listen to our surgeon, Ms. Darrien, discuss the effectiveness of the Allurion balloon.
Looking for an alternative weight loss solution?
Phoenix Health have partnered with SemaPen to deliver new options for those looking for an alternative to surgery or additional weight loss following bariatric surgery.
The 12-month SemaPen programme was developed using the latest clinical research and incorporates weekly injections of incretins, such as Mounjaro or Wegovy, which are gut hormones that help control appetite. This programme combines these injections with smart digital technology, alongside comprehensive dietetic and psychological support, ensuring a holistic approach to weight loss.
15–21%
average body weight lost in a year*
27
lower BMI cut off for treatment
95%
chance of responding to treatment
Aftercare that’s second to none
We are committed to ensuring that you receive the absolute highest standards of service. That’s why we let you design your own aftercare package to suit your own individual needs.
We offer 3 different choices including our Standard Silver package or our Gold and Platinum Enhanced Aftercare packages.
Choose the aftercare package that’s right for you…
Silver Package
What’s Included…
Treatment of complications at no extra cost for 3 months post-op
Free follow up and band fills for 2 years
Gold Package
What’s Included…
Treatment of complications at no extra cost for 12 months post-op
Free follow up and band fills for 5 years
Surgeon-led follow up
Bariatric gift box
8 consultations with Senior Clinical Psychologist pre/post-op
Platinum Package
What’s Included…
Treatment of complications at no extra cost for 36 months post-op
Free follow up and band fills for 10 years
Surgeon-led follow up
Bariatric gift box
16 consultations with Senior Clinical Psychologist pre/post-op
Ask an Expert
Please fill in the form below or call us on 03452 515 515 and a member of our team will be happy to help with your enquiry.