FAQ – 12-Month Gastric Balloon Treatment in Prague

3. Is gastric balloon treatment safe?

Yes. It is a non-surgical weight loss treatment, performed under mild sedation, and usually takes only 20–30 minutes. Most patients go home the same day. Side effects such as nausea, cramping, or reflux are common during the first week but usually pass quickly.

4. Who is the procedure suitable for?

The intragastric balloon is suitable for:

• Patients with a BMI of 27 or higher who need medical support for weight loss.
• Individuals who need to lose weight before another surgical procedure.
• Clients who have struggled to lose weight with diet and exercise alone.
• Patients whose aesthetic procedure results would improve with prior weight reduction.

Typical weight loss with a gastric balloon is 10–20 kg (20–30% of body weight), though individual results vary.

5. How is the procedure performed?

• Endoscopic evaluation of the oesophagus and stomach is performed first.
• The deflated balloon is inserted through the mouth using an endoscope.
• Once in the stomach, it is filled with approximately 500 ml of physiological solution.
• The procedure takes 20–30 minutes and is done under intravenous sedation with a local anaesthetic sprayed into the mouth.
• Patients do not need to stay overnight, but staying one night in Prague is recommended for smooth recovery before travel.

6. How long do I need to stay in Prague for the gastric balloon procedure?

You should plan to stay 2–3 days in Prague for balloon placement. This allows time for the procedure and initial monitoring. For balloon removal after 12 months, another 2-day stay is recommended.

7. What happens after the procedure?

First 3 days:

• Only liquid foods such as water, juice, broth, milk, or gelatine.
• Avoid coffee, fizzy drinks, chocolate, fatty foods, and alcohol.

Days 4–7:

• Gradually introduce pureed or semi-solid foods (porridge, soups, mashed vegetables, fruit purées).

After 1 week:

• Transition to soft solid foods, such as fish, scrambled eggs, or cooked vegetables. 
• Eat small portions, chew thoroughly, and eat slowly (each meal should take at least 20 minutes).

Avoid fizzy drinks, overeating, or lying down immediately after meals.

8. What is the recovery like after placement?

You may experience nausea, vomiting, or cramping in the first few days as your body adjusts. You will begin with a liquid diet, then move to pureed foods, and gradually return to small solid meals. Most patients return to work within 3–5 days.

9. Can I fly home soon after the gastric balloon placement?

Yes. Most patients are fit to fly home the next day after the procedure, unless advised otherwise by the doctor.

10. How long is the balloon kept in the stomach?

• Standard balloons: 6 months
• ORBERA365 balloon: 12 months
• The balloon must be removed within the recommended timeframe or sooner if medically necessary.

11. What follow-up care will I receive during the 6/12 months?

You will have regular check-ins with our coordinators. The first follow-up is within 1–2 weeks, and further support can be arranged monthly. We provide remote aftercare by email or phone to guide you throughout the year.

12. What medications are required?

• Omeprazol is prescribed to reduce gastric acid secretion and should be taken for the duration of the balloon.
• You will be given anti-nausea medication for the first few days.

13. What happens after 6/12 months?

The balloon must be removed after 6/12 months. This is done in Prague using the same endoscopic method under mild sedation. Removal takes about 20–30 minutes, and you can fly home the following day.

14. What if I experience complications once I return home?

Serious complications are very rare. If you have concerns, our medical team is available to advise you remotely. If necessary, we will coordinate further care.

15. Will I be able to keep the weight off after the balloon is removed?

The gastric balloon is a tool to support long-term weight loss. The healthy eating and lifestyle habits you adopt during the 12 months are key to maintaining your results. Our team can provide continued support even after removal.

16. Are there any risks or complications?

• Balloon rupture (rare) — immediate medical attention is required.
• Nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, or cramping in the first few days.
• Prolonged retention beyond 6 or 12 months increases risk of rupture.
• Certain activities that increase abdominal pressure (diving, boxing, high-impact sports) should be avoided.

17. How should I prepare for the procedure?

• Ensure you have adequate time off work and assistance if needed.
• Stop smoking at least 2 weeks prior and avoid alcohol the night before.
• Follow a hydration protocol: 2–3 liters/day for at least 3 days before.
• Avoid food 12 hours before and liquids 6 hours before the procedure.

18. What should I bring to the clinic?

• Passport or valid ID
• European Health Insurance Card (if applicable)
• Payment (credit card or cash)
• Regular medications in original packaging
• Arrive in comfortable clothing to ensure you are relaxed and at ease during the procedure

19. What post-operative care is required?

• Follow the liquid, semi-solid, and soft diet progression carefully.
• Sip fluids slowly and maintain proper hydration.
• Track weight and measurements and follow your nutritional plan.
• Continue regular exercise once cleared, gradually increasing intensity.
• Attend follow-up appointments and consult our nutrition therapists for support.

20. Balloon removal

• Performed endoscopically under sedation in a 20-minute procedure.
• The balloon is deflated and removed, and you stay at the clinic for approximately 2 hours.
• No solid foods at least 12 hours before, and no liquids 6 hours prior to removal.

21. Can I have another balloon procedure?

• Yes, but only after at least 3 months from the previous removal.
• Weight loss results vary, and long-term maintenance depends on continued healthy habits.