Losing excess weight can be difficult for many people. Eating less and exercising more are the keys to weight loss, but following a restricted plan is hard to accomplish. There are medical tools that can facilitate quicker weight loss by helping reduce hunger, giving patients more control of their diet. Danny Shouhed, M.D. offers medical weight loss options, including the intragastric balloon for weight loss through his practice in Los Angeles.
The intragastric balloon is a device that is inserted and inflated in the stomach to reduce space and impact the sensation of fullness. This non-surgical weight loss tool is inserted through an endoscopic procedure through the esophagus. The deflated balloon is placed in the stomach, then inflated using sterilized liquid, expanding the balloon to about the size of a grapefruit. This reduces the space in the stomach to help manage portion control when eating and slowing the digestion process.
The intragastric balloon is the keystone of a six-month program to help those who have excess weight learn to portion control and create better eating habits. The balloon can reduce hunger and help patients feel fuller longer, giving them more control over their diet. In studies, patients have lost, on average, up to three times as much weight using the intragastric balloon versus diet alone. This tool can give patients an edge when trying to make changes to their diet and lifestyle to lose extra pounds.
The intragastric balloon procedure is minimally-invasive and only takes about a half an hour to perform. Patients are sedated to make the process more comfortable. After the six-month program, the balloon is deflated and removed in a similar office procedure.
If you are struggling to lose weight and want a tool to help you manage your portion control and hunger, the intragastric balloon may be right for you. To learn more about the intragastric balloon for weight loss, contact our office in Los Angeles to schedule an appointment with Dr. Danny Shouhed to discuss the procedure.