FAQs
How does the Allurion Balloon get into my stomach?
- The balloon is placed in your stomach during a brief 20-minute outpatient visit with your doctor
- You will swallow a vegan - based capsule that contains the deflated balloon. The balloon is connected to a long thin tube. Once the capsule has entered your stomach you will have a first x-ray to confirm the correct position of the capsule.
- Your doctor will then use the tube to fill the balloon with liquid and then a second x-ray will confirm the balloon is correctly filled. Once the balloon is filled, your doctor will gently remove the tube and you’ll be on your way.
Is the balloon easy to swallow?
Most people can swallow the capsule containing the Allurion Balloon without any problems. However, if you do have difficulty swallowing it, your doctor can use a thin wire (stylet) to help guide the capsule into place – still without endoscopy or anaesthesia.
How much weight will I lose?
People on average lose between 10 and 15kg (10 -15% of total body weight) over four months of balloon therapy.
What is the balloon filled with?
The balloon is filled with 550ml of water.
How long does it take to return to normal activities after placement?
Most people can return to normal activity within a day or two. However, some people do experience nausea, abdominal cramping and, occasionally, vomiting after balloon placement. In most cases, your doctor can prescribe commonly used medication to help manage these symptoms.
How is the balloon removed?
After approximately 16 weeks, a time-activated release valve on the balloon will open, allowing it to empty and pass naturally without any medical intervention when you use the toilet.3 In rare cases, at the time of passage, the balloon may be vomited.
What happens then?
After your balloon passes, the Allurion Program and the support from your healthcare team continue. This is to help you consolidate your new lifestyle habits and focus on keeping the weight off.
