A gastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical aid to weight loss for people who do not need or do not want an operation. It takes up space in the stomach so that you feel full sooner. In this guide New City Clinic explains the types of balloon, who they suit and what to expect.
What is a gastric balloon and who is it for?
A soft silicone balloon is placed in the stomach and filled with liquid. It is generally considered for people with a body mass index of roughly 27–40 who have not reached their goal with diet and exercise, or as a first step before surgery for those with a higher BMI. It is not suitable for people with a large hiatus hernia, stomach ulcers or previous stomach surgery. Your physician decides after an assessment.
How is it placed and removed?
Endoscopic balloons are placed through the mouth under sedation in about 20–30 minutes, and you go home the same day. They stay in for 6 or 12 months depending on the type and are removed the same way. Swallowable balloons are taken as a capsule without endoscopy and pass naturally after around four months. Which type is appropriate depends on your stomach and your goals.
What results can you expect?
A balloon is a tool, not a cure. People who work with a dietitian and change their eating and activity habits typically lose a meaningful share of their excess weight while the balloon is in place. Without those changes, weight tends to return after removal. Nausea, cramps and reflux are common in the first days and are managed with medication.
A gastric balloon: cost in Turkey and what is included
The price depends on the technique, the extent of the procedure, the hospital, the length of stay and any procedures planned together, which is why a single figure quoted without an examination or photo assessment is misleading. After a physician has reviewed your case, New City Clinic sends you an itemised written quote. It lists hospital, surgeon and anaesthesia fees, pre-operative tests, medication, any compression garment or support bra, accommodation, airport–hotel–hospital transfers and interpreting separately; flights are not included unless stated. When comparing clinics in Istanbul, look beyond the price: check that the hospital is licensed by the Ministry of Health, what the surgeon specialises in, and how follow-up is handled once you are back home.
A gastric balloon with New City Clinic
New City Clinic is an authorised health tourism intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye. When you contact New City Clinic about a gastric balloon, a physician first reviews your photos and medical information, and you then receive a written treatment plan with an itemised quote. Once you arrive in Istanbul, the New City Clinic team organises your airport welcome, accommodation, hospital appointments and interpreting. Your procedure is performed by a specialist physician at a Ministry of Health approved partner hospital, and follow-up continues after you return home.
Recovery timeline
First 3 days
Nausea and cramps are common while the stomach adapts; fluids only, with medication to help.
Days 4–14
A gradual move from liquids to purées and soft foods. Most people return to work within 3 days.
Months 1–6
Regular contact with the dietitian; this is when most weight is lost.
Removal
The balloon is removed at 6 or 12 months; the habits you have built are what maintain the result.
Accommodation and transfers
On request, New City Clinic organises your airport–hotel–hospital transfers and your stay at partner hotels close to the hospital. The same can be arranged for a companion; details are set out in writing in your quote.
Aftercare
Medication and check-ups
Take the medication your physician prescribes as directed and attend your planned check-ups.
Smoking and alcohol
Both slow healing; avoid them before and after the procedure for the period your physician advises.
Movement and rest
Short walks support circulation; wait for your physician’s approval before strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
When to get in touch
Contact your New City Clinic coordinator straight away in case of high fever, increasing pain, redness or anything unexpected.
Frequently asked questions
How much weight will I lose with a gastric balloon?
It varies widely. Those who follow the dietary programme lose noticeably more; your physician can give a realistic range for your situation.
Is a gastric balloon painful?
Placement is done under sedation. Cramping and nausea in the first few days are expected and usually settle with medication.
How soon can I fly home?
Most New City Clinic patients stay 2–3 days in Istanbul so the first days of adaptation are supervised, then fly home.
Deciding on a gastric balloon is a confident step when it is taken with the right information and the right team. You can book a free consultation with the New City Clinic team for your questions.
This article is for general information; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
