A gastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical aid to weight loss. It takes up space in the stomach so that you feel full sooner, and works best together with a dietitian’s programme. This New City Clinic guide explains the options for UK patients; a written quote follows a free assessment.
Who it suits
A balloon is generally considered at a body mass index of roughly 27–40 when diet and exercise have not been enough, or as a first step before surgery at a higher BMI. It is not suitable with a large hiatus hernia, stomach ulcers or previous stomach surgery; a physician decides after an assessment.
Endoscopic or swallowable
Endoscopic balloons are placed through the mouth under sedation in about 20–30 minutes and stay for 6 or 12 months. Swallowable balloons are taken as a capsule and pass naturally after around four months. Nausea and cramps are common in the first days and are managed with medication.
What to check before booking
Ask for the name of the hospital and check that it is licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health, the full name and specialty of the doctor, and a written quote that lists hospital, doctor, tests, nights in hospital and hotel, transfers and interpreter. Be cautious with offers that cannot name the hospital, promise guaranteed results or ask for a deposit before a physician has seen your case.
Travelling from the UK
Direct flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and other UK airports take around four hours. Plan about 2–3 days in Istanbul so that your doctor can check you before the flight. You receive your reports in English for your GP, and a New City Clinic coordinator follows your recovery remotely once you are home.
A gastric balloon in Turkey 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 in Turkey, 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 while the stomach adapts; fluids only.
Days 4–14
Gradual move to purées and soft foods.
Months 1–6
Regular dietitian contact; most weight is lost in this period.
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?
It varies widely; people who follow the dietary programme lose noticeably more.
Is it painful?
Placement is done under sedation; discomfort in the first days usually settles with medication.
Is there a fixed price?
A written quote follows a free assessment of your case.
Deciding on a gastric balloon in Turkey 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.
