Obesity is on the rise in the United States and around the world. The global prevalence of obesity has more than tripled since 1975, and in the U.S., it’s now close to 40%.
So it’s no surprise that people are looking for help, and they’re turning to surgery. One surgery in particular has been gaining popularity – Gastric Balloon Surgery (GBS). Dr. James Evans, a bariatric surgeon in Marietta, GA, recently spoke with us about this surgery, and he provided us with some essential information about this relatively new procedure.
What Is Gastric Balloon Surgery (GBS)?
Gastric balloon surgery (GBS) is a procedure in which a balloon is placed inside the stomach. Placing a balloon inside the stomach makes it easier for the patient to lose weight because eating becomes more physically challenging due to the presence of the balloon. The goal is to establish a caloric deficit, causing the patient to lose weight. Once the desired weight is lost, the balloon is removed and the patient continues to follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen.
Why Is It Popular?
The popularity of GBS is on the rise because it’s a permanent and effective solution for obesity. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia; as a result, the patient is unable to eat or drink for the duration of the surgery. The procedure is also irreversible, so once the balloon is removed, the patient can’t go back to their old habits. This combined with the fact that it is a relatively new procedure, makes it more appealing to some people who are seeking a permanent solution for their obesity problem.
What Are The Risks?
There aren’t any risks associated with gastric balloon surgery (GBS), but like any other type of surgery, there are risks associated with anesthesia. People who undergo general anesthesia have a greater risk of developing anesthesia-related complications, such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. However, these risks are relatively mild and uncommon. Some people who have risk factors for heart disease, such as a history of heart attacks, have an increased risk of developing an adverse reaction to anesthesia. In these cases, IV medication should be considered before proceeding with surgery.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From?
Most patients are able to go home the same day as their surgery, and they’ll need to take it easy for a few days afterwards. Getting back to normal activity levels is a real trial, as the patient is physically limited by the presence of the balloon and can’t do everything they used to do before surgery.
In some cases, the patient may need a little extra time to recover – up to a week or more – due to complications such as dehydration or mild malnutrition. Once these issues are resolved, the patient should be back to their normal self and be able to recover much faster than expected.
How Many Times Have You Performed This Procedure?
This procedure has only been around for a few years, so there aren’t a lot of documented cases of people undergoing it multiple times. However, as it is a relatively new procedure, it’s likely that this number will rise as surgery has proven its effectiveness for weight loss and improved health.
Is It Right For Everyone?
Gastric balloon surgery (GBS) is a permanent and effective solution for obesity. But like any other type of surgery, it’s not for everyone. As with any other major surgery, the risks and complications need to be considered. People who are deemed at a high risk of complications due to a weak immune system or a history of heart disease should not consider this procedure. However, as the risks are relatively low and the benefits seem to be significant, it is reasonable to assume that obesity might be the cause of someone’s heart disease, and they could greatly benefit from this surgery.
Due to its effectiveness and permanency, gastric balloon surgery (GBS) is a popular solution for obesity. However, as it is still a relatively new procedure and there aren’t a lot of cases documenting its long-term success, it is crucial to consider the risks before making a decision. We at EmbraceHealth are committed to providing you with the highest quality and most comprehensive dental care, and if you’re interested in trying gastric balloon surgery (GBS), we’d recommend you consult with a reputable bariatric surgeon in your area.