FAQ

How does the gastric balloon work?

Athenix’s newest body contouring device is a small, silicone balloon that sits in the stomach, giving the client a sensation of fullness. This reduces hunger without cravings or irritability, and allows patients to lose up to 35% of their excess body weight. After the patient is sedated, the doctor will gently insert a deflated balloon into the mouth, tunneling down to the belly with the assistance of an endoscope. There, the balloon is filled with a saline solution, where it will remain for the next six months. At the end of this period, the device is removed.

What happens after the balloon is removed?

Although the device is retracted after the first six months, your weight loss program does not end there. The Athenix team will continue to monitor and guide you for a full year, ensuring that you maintain the weight loss you achieved in the first part of the program. You will discover a healthier approach to eating and exercise, and will find that even after the balloon is gone, you continue to choose reasonably sized portions thanks to the new habits established while the balloon was inserted.

How can I determine if the gastric balloon is right for me?

The gastric balloon is a great option for you if you are over 18 and have a BMI ranging from 30-40. Many Orange County and Irvine area patients pursuing a gastric balloon desire a weight loss solution that is more aggressive than diet pills, a restricted food plan or exercise, all of which may have failed them in the past, but one that is less invasive than bariatric surgery. To learn whether you are a good candidate for the gastric balloon treatment, please call us to set up your free consultation with the Athenix team.

I am thinking about getting bariatric surgery. Am I still a candidate for gastric balloon?

If you are planning to undergo bariatric surgery in the future, but are looking for an interim treatment that will help prepare you for greater weight loss, the Athenix stomach balloon may be a good solution, as long as you have a BMI of 30-40. Your doctor can speak with you further on this topic during your initial consultation. Note that the gastric balloon is not appropriate for those clients who have already undergone bariatric surgery in the past.

Is safety an issue with the gastric balloon?

The Orbera and Reshape gastric balloons were approved by the FDA in the US in August of 2015, and have been changing lives ever since. There are over 200,000 successful case studies worldwide at present. Your Athenix representative can present you with more findings on this topic during your confidential consultation.

What kind of weight loss can I expect to see?

Our Orange County and Irvine clients are seeing an approximate 35% of their excess weight vanish with the Athenix gastric balloon program, which typically translates into 25-75 lbs. shed. Results will vary from person to person, but on the whole, the gastric balloon appears to be almost twice as effective as dieting and exercise alone. Of course, the program relies on your continued commitment to follow up visits and implementation of the lifestyle changes explored in your personalized sessions.

Will my health insurance pay for the treatment?

This is unlikely, as the gastric balloon is still a relatively new procedure on the market. However, the OC Athenix team is dedicated to assisting you with all your financing needs, providing multiple payment options including no money down, 12-60-month payment plans, and low monthly payments. We work with a variety of healthcare lenders who are sensitive to your situation and want to make your weight loss dreams a reality. Please contact our patient care coordinator for more information.

How quickly will I recover?

Orange County and Irvine area patients will find that they can return to work usually within 1-2 days following treatment. The recovery is not painful, although you may experience some mild nausea or discomfort as your body adjusts to the device.

Do I have to change my eating habits after the procedure?

Although a change in diet may sound daunting at first, most Athenix gastric balloon clients agree that they do not feel deprived or constrained by their lifestyle changes. In fact, most feel liberated to look and feel their best, often for the first time in many years. Your Athenix program comes with extended dietary guidance and support, so you can figure out the healthy meals you most enjoy. Believe it or not, healthy eating can be incredibly tasty and fun!