Cadogan Clinic is a leading specialist cosmetic surgery clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to the leading specialists in breast augmentation, liposuction, and a comprehensive range of face, breast and body treatments.
View all Cosmetic SurgeryCadogan Clinic is a leading specialist cosmetic surgery clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to the leading specialists in breast augmentation, liposuction, and a comprehensive range of face, breast and body treatments.
Cadogan Clinic offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery to help make the changes you want to your breasts under the guidance of the best surgeons in the UK.
Breast enlargement and augmentation aims to cosmetically enhance the size and shape of your breasts.
Breast implants should be replaced every 10-15 years, or sooner if you start to notice changes.
A breast lift helps to lift sagging or low-hanging breasts for a more youthful appearance.
Breast reconstruction helps those after a mastectomy safely regain natural-looking breasts.
Breast reduction removes tissue to improve the size, weight, and appearance of large breasts.
Natural breast enlargement uses your own body's fat tissues to add volume to your breasts.
Nipple reduction address the size, shape, and overall appearance of enlarged nipples.
Cadogan Clinic offers a range of cosmetic surgery to help make the changes you want to your body under the guidance of the very best surgeons in the UK.
An arm reduction, or arm lift, lifts and removes sagging skin or 'bingo wings' under the arm.
A buttock lift helps to lift, tighten, and reduce loose skin on the buttocks and upper thighs.
A Brazilian butt lift contours and enhances the shape of your buttocks for an hourglass silhouette.
Liposuction is a surgical procedure to remove unwanted pockets of fat on the body and face.
Laser liposuction surgically removes fat for instant results and tightens the skin post-procedure.
The Mummy Makeover uses bespoke cosmetic surgeries for tummy, breasts, and thighs after childbirth.
A thigh lift is a surgical procedure to lift and tighten loose, sagging skin on the upper legs.
An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, tightens excessive or loose skin on your tummy and torso.
An umbilicoplasty aims to surgically improve the cosmetic appearance of your belly button.
Cosmetic and corrective hand surgery treats concerns such as trigger finger.
Cosmetic foot surgery can aim to improve both health and cosmetic concerns with your feet.
Cellulaze is a procedure that uses laser treatments to treat the appearance of cellulite.
Hernia surgery is a corrective surgery to remove the uncomfortable protrusion of a hernia lump.
A mons lift is a surgery that lifts the skin on a woman's pelvic region (the mons pubis).
Scar revision and reduction can surgically or non-surgically improve the appearance of a scar.
Fat transfer, also referred to as fat grafting and lipofilling, has become widely accepted as the optimal means of soft-tissue filling in all areas of the body, including the face, breasts, hands and buttocks
Fat transfer uses natural fat deposits from your body to add volume to other areas.
Fat transfer for breasts allows for natural breast enlargement by using your own fat stores.
Fat transfer for the face uses natural fat reserves to enhance your cheeks and facial features.
Cadogan Clinic offers a wide range of facial cosmetic surgery procedures to help you make the changes you want, under the guidance of the very best surgeons.
An eyebrow lift surgically lifts a drooping eyebrow to reduce a 'tired eyes' appearance.
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Eyelid reduction, or blepharoplasty, removes loose skin and fat pockets around the eyes.
Chin liposuction surgically removes stubborn reserves of excess fat on the chin and jawline.
Chin Augmentation (Chin Implants)
Chin augmentation uses implants to add structure and definition to the lower face.
Earlobe repair and reduction reshapes scarred, stretched, or enlarged earlobes.
A facelift surgically lifts loose, sagging, and ageing skin for a more youthful appearance.
A lip lift surgically creates loft and structure for your lips, creating a feminine lip border.
A mini facelift targets the lower face, jawline, and neck for slightly less invasive rejuvenation.
A neck lift targets loose and sagging skin on the neck and jawline for a youthful appearance.
A nose tip lift aims to improve your profile by lifting the tip of a downturned nose.
Ear reshaping surgery can include ear pinning, scar reduction, earlobe correction, and more.
Gender dysphoria is a term used to describe how an individual feels a strong sense of disassociation between their gender identity and biological sex.
FTM top surgery is a liberating and gender-affirming surgery for trans men.
MTF top surgery is a gender-affirming breast enlargement surgery for trans women.
Cadogan Clinic provides a wide range of cosmetic gynaecological surgery procedures performed by a multi-disciplinary team of the best surgeons in the UK.
Labiaplasty reduces the size and shape of the labia to aid confidence in the cosmetic appearance.
Vaginal reconstruction and rejuvenation are bespoke and intimate surgeries for women.
Vaginal Tightening (Vaginoplasty)
Vaginoplasty is a reconstructive surgery to strengthen the pelvic floor and vaginal muscles.
For many people, losing weight can be achieved by eating healthily and taking regular exercise. However, sometimes weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, may be necessary.
Gastric band surgery uses a sillicone band to compress the stomach, making you feel fuller quicker.
Gastric bypass surgery is a major surgery to aid in weight loss where exercise and diet have failed.
A gastric balloon of saline is placed in the stomach, filling a space otherwise taken by food.
Gastric sleeve surgery reduces the size of the stomach significantly so it stores less food.
Cadogan Clinic provides both female and male cosmetic surgery. Almost all of our procedures are suitable for men as well as women.
Tummy tuck for men, or abdominoplasty, targets loose and sagging skin on the lower abdomen.
Men's facelift surgery helps to surgically reduce the signs of ageing on a man's face and jaw.
Hair transplant surgery uses your own follicles to treat the appearance of hair loss and thinning.
Liposuction for men targets stubborn fat pockets on the male body resistant to lifestyle changes.
Remove excess fat and male breast tissue to improve the cosmetic appearance of your chest.
Rhinoplasty for men aids the cosmetic appearance of a man's nose, septum, and/or bridge.
The Cadogan Clinic Surgical Aftercare and Scar Management Programmes have been developed to optimise patient well-being, recovery and scar management.
Cadogan Clinic is a leading non surgical cosmetic clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading injectable, filler and laser specialists, and are experts in the anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation process.
View all Non-SurgicalCadogan Clinic is a leading non surgical cosmetic clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading injectable, filler and laser specialists, and are experts in the anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation process.
There are many factors which contribute to ageing skin and when deciding on a treatment solution, these are important to consider.
Anti-ageing injectables relax the muscles in the face to lessen the appearance of wrinkles.
Dermal fillers add volume, definition, and structure to the lips, cheeks, jaw, and more.
Lip filler is a non-surgical injectable treatment to plump, shape, and define the lips.
The non-surgical facelift, or liquid facelift, using dermal filler in the face to define and lift.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty uses dermal filler to non-surgically augment the shape of the nose.
Sculptra is an injectable treatment that stimulates collagen growth for naturally refreshed skin.
Tear trough filler uses dermal filler to reawaken tired or sunken looking under-eyes.
At the Cadogan Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of non-surgical cosmetic treatments, to refresh and rejuvenate your appearance.
Microneedling lightly promotes the growth of fresh skin cells and collagen for a youthful glow.
Non-Surgical Eyelid Reduction (Plexr)
Non-surgical eyelid reduction uses targeted lasers to safely reduce and remove eyelid fat.
Cadogan Clinic is a leading dermatology clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading acne, eczema and rosacea specialists, and are experts in the mole and skin cancer diagnosis and removal process.
View all DermatologyCadogan Clinic is a leading dermatology clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading acne, eczema and rosacea specialists, and are experts in the mole and skin cancer diagnosis and removal process.
Skin is incredibly important to your health and your appearance. The Cadogan Clinic has one of the largest and experienced teams of consultant dermatologists.
Treat active acne and problematic skin to smooth blemishes, enlarged pores, and congestion.
Treat and soothe painful bacterial skin infections to regain comfort in your skin.
Combat dermatitis, skin irritation, and inflammation with clinical treatments.
Eczema is a chronic skin disorder which can be soothed with a dermatological treatment plan.
Diagnose the cause of excess hair growth with your dermatologist and begin your treatment plan.
Identify the cause of hair loss before opting for a hair transplant or other options suited to you.
Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)
Treat the symptoms of hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, to feel liberated and comfortable.
Remove hard, harmless, yet unwanted white bumps in your skin with milia removal.
Find diagnoses and treatments for your children with our paediatric dermatologists.
Treat hyperpigmentation and sun damaged skin for clearer, more youthful, and even-toned skin.
Identify what stimulates your psoriasis and soothe it with a patient-centred treatment plan.
Manage painful rosacea flare-ups with effective dermatological treatments and lifestyle changes.
Identify skin allergens with a dermatological patch test and learn how to manage them.
Your skin health MOT provides an annual full-body health assessment to keep you safe and healthy.
Remove unsightly and uncomfortable verrucae on your feet with targeted treatments.
We are all becoming increasingly aware of the risks posed by sun damage to the skin, as well as the need to protect our skin in day-to-day life.
Safely and non-surgically remove unwanted skin lesions such as warts with cryotherapy.
Remove painful and unsightly cysts on your face and body with either cryotherapy or excision.
Identify and remove unwanted lipomas and fatty tumours with minor localised excisions.
Remove non-melanoma skin cancer and moles with precision Mohs surgery.
Professional mole mapping identifies all pigmented moles on your body for your peace of mind.
Remove moles and pigmented lesions for your skin's safety with targeted mole removal.
Learn the early signs of skin cancer and receive treatment with specialists at our mole clinic.
Skin Lumps (Warts, Moles, Skin Tags)
Safely remove minor skin lumps, moles, skin tags, and lumps with localised treatments.
Cadogan Clinic is a leading day case centre of excellence based in the heart of London. Alongside our international team of plastic surgeons and dermatologists, we’re home to some of the leading gynaecologists, ophthalmologists, podiatrists and urologists in the country.
View all DepartmentsCadogan Clinic is a leading day case centre of excellence based in the heart of London. Alongside our international team of plastic surgeons and dermatologists, we’re home to some of the leading gynaecologists, ophthalmologists, podiatrists and urologists in the country.
We are experts in a wide range of Andrology treatments, in both elective and medical conditions.
Frenuloplasty surgery is a simple surgical procedure to release an overly-tight foreskin.
Premature ejaculation is a common sexual problem in men where sexual climax occurs ‘too early’.
Cadogan Clinic provides a wide range of cosmetic gynaecological surgery procedures performed by a multi-disciplinary team of the best surgeons in the UK.
Place or remove your contraceptive coil (IUD), one of the most effective methods of contraception.
Prioritise your cervical health with a colposcopy after a smear test or to identify symptoms.
A hysterectomy removes the uterus to aid severe conditions of the female reproductive system.
A hysteroscopy examines the uterus to identify conditions such as polyps and fibroids.
A myomectomy allows your doctor to remove painful fibroids without removing the uterus.
An ovarian cystectomy removes ovarian cysts under general anaesthetic through a small incision.
Perineum and Pelvic Floor Repair
Perineum and pelvic floor repair aids continence, muscle laxity, and appearance after childbirth.
Polyp removal is a minor day-case operation that removes and tests polyp growths on the cervix.
Vaginal prolapse surgery restores and strengthens the vaginal walls to help prevent recurrence.
A vulvectomy removes tissue on the vulva to combat complex conditions such as vulval cancer.
Laparoscopy, or keyhole surgery, allows us to diagnose conditions of the female reproductive organs.
We are experts in a wide range of hand problems, in both elective and traumatic conditions.
Treat carpal tunnel syndrome and relieve tension on the affected nerves in your hand.
Dupuytren's Contracture Surgery
Straighten fingers that are bent by Dupuytren's Contracture with different treatment options.
Soothe painful, sore, and stiff joints with hydrocortisone injections for more comfortable movement.
Remove ganglion cysts on your hands and wrists with a minor, localised surgery.
Straighten a stuck or trapped finger to 'release' the tension with trigger finger surgery.
Cosmetic foot surgery can help by firstly eliminating the sources of chronic pain or deformity and secondly, reshaping the feet for aesthetic appeal, often resulting in smaller, slimmer feet with a reduced shoe size.
Correct painful and unsightly bunions on your feet with surgery at Cadogan Clinic.
Achieve slender, feminine feet and improve their aesthetic appearance with Cinderella foot surgery.
If you're persistently developing corns on your feet, it's time to consider corn removal surgery.
Smooth and correct foot lumps, bumps, and corns with foot surgery and put your best foot forwards.
Toe Shortening & Straightening
Toe shortening and straightening helps to improve the cosmetic appearance of your toes.
Vascular surgery is a surgical subspecialty in which diseases of the vascular system, or arteries, veins and lymphatic circulation, are managed by medical therapy, minimally-invasive catheter procedures, and surgical reconstruction.
Deep vein thrombosis can be treated to remove a blood clot and reduce pain and swelling in the area.
Reduce visible thread veins with medical treatments such as sclerotherapy and laser treatment.
Smooth 'lumpy' and unsightly varicose veins that can also be painful with safe medical treatments.
We offer a range of Women’s Health and Wellness services, from fertility, family planning and pregnancy care to a comprehensive range of gynaecology health services
A cervical smear test is a simple yet essential test to check the health of your cervix and uterus.
Explore your contraception options if you feel that you are not using the right method for you.
Treat the more severe and painful symptoms of endometriosis to regain your quality of life.
Diagnose and learn how to manage heavy menstrual bleeding to take better control of your cycle.
Identify and manage HPV, STDs, and other intimate viruses to maintain your sexual health.
Find answers to treat irregular menstrual bleeding, including medicinal and lifestyle changes.
Low Libido / Sexual Difficulties
Reclaim your libido by indentifying the psychological or medical reasons behind it's loss.
Learn how to manage the symptoms of the menopause in all of their severity and variations.
Identify why you are experiencing painful or uncomfortable intercourse and take steps to treat this.
Consistently painful periods can cause distress, but there are ways to treat and control them.
Diagnose and treat pelvic pain regardless of whether it is a dull ache or a constant chronic pain.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 1 in 10 women, but for some it is particularly painful.
Identify and treat premature ovarian failure (POF) to maintain a more comfortable hormonal balance.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is natural for most women, but sometimes it can be severe.
Recurrent miscarriages are incredibly distressing, but they can be a symptom of underlying concerns.
Vaginal atrophy and dryness is common during the menopause, but no less uncomfortable or upsetting.
Diagnose intimate and sensitive genital skin conditions and complaints to soothe your skin.
Weight Loss Surgery
at Cadogan Clinic, London’s Leading Cosmetic Surgery Specialists.
Get in touchWe have invited only the very best consultants to practice at our specialist clinic.
Our state-of the-art award winning facilities are located right in the heart of London.
Award Winning Specialist Clinic
We've won 12 top industry awards since 2010 and regularly feature in the national and international press.
Industry Leading Consultants
We've invited only the very best consultants in the country to practice with us.
Care Quality Commission
We're regulated by the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
GMC Registered Surgeons
All of our surgeons are registered with the General Medical Council.
Medically Reviewed April 2023, by Mr. Bryan Mayou (GMC: 1414396) - founder of the Cadogan Clinic and one of the world's leading plastic surgeons
Gastric balloon is a weight loss procedure that involves placing a saline-filled balloon into the stomach, filling a large area and making less room for food.
Gastric balloon is a non-surgical procedure, meaning there are no cuts, wounds or scars, and it is an excellent way to lose weight quickly and safely.
This weight loss treatment is ideal for people who have tried to lose weight through dieting, without success. A gastric balloon can be used as an alternative to weight loss surgery, such as gastric sleeve and gastric band, or it can be used as part of a staged treatment plan. For example, a gastric balloon may be a good option if you are too heavy or too high risk for weight loss surgery.
A gastric balloon is only a temporary measure and once the balloon is removed, you will have adapted to smaller portion sizes and developed new, healthier, eating habits. You will receive support once the balloon has been deflated to help you maintain these new habits and avoid slipping back into the old ones and putting back on the weight you have lost.
Unlike a gastric sleeve or a gastric bypass, a gastric balloon makes no permanent alterations to the structure or function of the stomach.
Get in touchThe primary goal of a gastric balloon is to lose weight and cut the risk of serious health conditions, such as cancer, stroke, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnoea and infertility. Losing weight with a gastric balloon can also reduce the pressure on the joints, reducing the risk of joint pain and damage to the joints.
People who are overweight or obese feel self-conscious about their weight which triggers anxiety and depression. It also means they are likely to avoid certain social situations. Losing weight via gastric balloon usually results in a marked improvement in a person’s mental health.
Losing weight via a temporary gastric balloon can also be used to lose excess weight in preparation for weight loss surgery, such as gastric sleeve or gastric bypass.
You must have a BMI (body mass index) of 27 (overweight) or higher. The gastric balloon can be used to lose weight ahead of surgery and can sometimes be used as an alternative for patients who do not want to have surgery or do not meet the recommended minimum weight guidelines for surgery. Your surgeon must be satisfied that you are in good mental health ahead of the procedure.
You are not suitable for a gastric balloon if you have previously had gastric surgery, including any anti-reflux surgery. You will also not be considered if you have had a hiatus hernia measuring 5cm or above, a blood clotting disorder, severe liver disease, a potentially bleeding lesion of the upper gastrointestinal tract or any other medical condition that means you cannot undergo an endoscopy. A gastric balloon is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women and anyone who is planning a pregnancy.
Words from our clients:
"I was extremely satisfied with the care and treatment I received at the Cadogan Clinic. My surgeon was friendly and informative and explained the procedure fully. My procedure went very well and with the excellent care of the nursing staff, I made a speedy and full recovery. Would recommend to anyone."Eva Berry
"At the beginning before the operation the nurse taking care of me made me feel so comfortable. The surgeon and anesthetist helped me feel so calm. Fantastic before and after treatment"Scarlett Elliott
"The girls on the reception at the clinic were very pleasant and professional. The nurse who took out my stitches after my surgery was just lovely and took me through step by step what she was doing and she also recommended a great cream to use to help with healing."Georgina Nolan
“I was treated with care and provided with thorough knowledge about the procedure I was undertaking. My surgeon was very methodical (a perfectionist) and I felt I received A class treatment."Courtney O'Sullivan
"Outstanding experience from the first appointment to being discharged. Very professional, friendly and a fantastic outcome."Gemma Stevenson
"Reception staff very welcoming and efficient. Both nurses who I dealt with were fantastic, and the whole team (anaesthetist, surgeon etc) were friendly but professional, and really put my mind at ease. That I was able to stay later than I perhaps needed after my surgery to fit in with my husbands schedule was greatly appreciated."Emma Davies
The gastric balloon is gently guided through the mouth and down the throat into the stomach. Once in place, the gastric balloon is filled with saline solution. This makes the balloon expand and take up more room in the stomach, meaning there is less room for food and you feel fuller more quickly. As a result, you will need to cut down on your portion sizes. A gastric balloon is typically around 700ml in volume and is made from a specially designed silicone that cannot be damaged by stomach acid.
A gastric balloon may be in situ for four or six months. During this time, you will lose around three times the weight that you would normally expect to lose through other methods, such as exercising and dieting. You should concentrate on eating healthily, avoiding fatty and sugary foods and snacking, to ensure that you enjoy the very best results from your gastric balloon procedure.
Once the gastric balloon has been removed, you will be given a support package as part of your aftercare to make sure you keep the weight off by making healthy lifestyle choices. This support will last for up to 18 months.
Depending on the type of balloon, the balloon may be deflated and then removed via the mouth. Alternatively, the balloon may be designed to deflate on its own before passing naturally through the digestive tract.
A gastric balloon is only a temporary measure and the procedure itself does not change the structure of your stomach. Unlike gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery, no surgical incisions are needed and there are no lasting physical changes to your body.
Below you will find some key information to help you prepare for surgery and make necessary arrangements to ensure you have the support you need and that everything runs smoothly on the day.
01.The consultation
The first step for all of our patients is to meet with the surgeon we feel is best placed to perform your procedure for a consultation.
At the consultation you will be able to discuss with your surgeon what your hope to achieve from the procedure, as well as discuss in detail what may or may not be possible.
Finally a comprehensive discussion regarding risks and complications will take place, alongside a discussion regarding the post procedure and recovery phase. Your previous medical history will also be recorded (including previous surgery, medications, allergies etc.) and an assessment of your fitness for surgery.
If your surgeon feels you are a good candidate for surgery, you are then invited to consider whether you would like to proceed for surgery or otherwise following a two week 'cooling off' period.
Within this period you are welcome to come in and discuss your potential surgery with your surgeon as many times as you like.
02.Leading up to procedure
If you choose to proceed with surgery, the next time you come into the Clinic after your final consultation will be the day of your procedure.
Before admission the following behavioural changes are recommended / required:
03.On the day
A gastric balloon is introduced into the body via the mouth. The procedure is not carried out under a general anesthetic. Instead you will be given a sedative to help you feel comfortable during the introduction of the balloon.
The surgeon will inspect your stomach using a camera to make sure there are no abnormalities, such as a large hiatus hernia or an ulcer. They will then use a long tube called an endoscope to guide the deflated balloon through the mouth, down the throat and into the stomach. The tube fills the balloon with saline before it is detached and removed, leaving the balloon in place. Alternatively, you may be given a swallowable gastric balloon in a capsule to take with a glass of water. A tube will then be used to fill the balloon with saline solution while in the stomach.
The procedure will take around 20 minutes from start to finish.
The gastric balloon procedure is done as a day case, which means you can go home on the same day. When you do leave the clinic, you must leave accompanied by a responsible friend or family member.
04.Treatment recovery
Once the gastric balloon is in place, you will need to adhere to a strict diet for the first few days.
For the first 24 hours you should only take sips of fluids such as water, clear soups and cordial juices. For days two to five you can eat broth, soup, jelly and liquidised food. On day six you will be able to eat semi-solid foods before finally progressing to a calorie-controlled diet. You should follow your diet plan issued by the consultant as closely as possible.
As well as eating a healthy diet, you should also participate in a healthy level of physical activity in order to help you lose weight. You should try an activity that matches your ability, such as cycling, swimming or walking.
After gastric balloon treatment, you will need to take regular medication to suppress stomach acid. A number of people will also need anti-emetic medication for nausea for around one week after the insertion of the balloon. You may also need to take antispasmodic drugs for cramps for a short time immediately after the procedure.
As part of your treatment with the Cadogan Clinic, you will have access to 24/7 on-call nurse assistance for the duration of your recovery.
The Patient Journey. A breakdown of what you can expect on your journey with us
We are deeply invested in ensuring that every step of your surgical journey with us is as informative and reassuring to you as it can be. This article outlines what you can expect at each stage of the journey
The Patient JourneyWhat are the benefits of a gastric balloon?
A gastric balloon results in substantial and rapid weight loss, which leads to major improvement to both physical and mental health.
By losing excess weight with the help of a gastric balloon, this can help improve cardiovascular health, cutting the risk of heart disease and stroke. This weight loss procedure can also help cut the risk of cancer and prompt obesity-related illness and disease to go into remission, including type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnoea and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Losing weight via gastric balloon can help to reduce the pressure on the bones, cutting the risk of fractures and osteoarthritis, alleviating joint pain and stopping joint problems from developing in the hips, knees, ankles, feet and shoulders.
Weight loss associated with a gastric balloon can also help to improve fertility, cut miscarriage risk and reduce pregnancy complications in women.
Gastric balloon procedures can have a huge positive impact on psychological health and wellbeing too. People who are overweight, obese or morbily obese suffer a higher rate of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. They may choose to avoid certain social situations or certain activities such as swimming, which will expose the body. This can also have a negative impact on intimate relationships too. This all feeds into mental ill health.
Because there is no surgery involved with a gastric balloon, this means there are no surgical incisions and no scars. Unlike gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery, there is no permanent change to the size or shape of the stomach.
How much weight can you lose with a gastric balloon?
Weight loss varies from person to person. But as a rule, if you have a gastric balloon fitted, you should expect to lose up to a third of your excess body weight. The average gastric balloon weight loss is two to three stone, with the majority of this weight loss happening within the first three months of the procedure.
However you must eat healthily and exercise if you want to see the benefit of your gastric balloon procedure. Avoid filling up on high calorie, high carbohydrate, fatty and sugary foods and drinks. It is uncommon for people with a gastric balloon not to lose any weight, but these lifestyle modifications are a crucial part of the process.
How successful is a gastric balloon?
A gastric balloon is a highly effective weight loss method. The bulk of the weight lost with a gastric balloon happens in the first three months and beyond this the balloon helps to support healthy eating patterns and acts as an effective form of portion control. This helps to instil healthy habits so you can continue to shed the pounds after the balloon has been deflated and removed.
Although it is possible to lose as much as a third of your excess weight, one in five patients with a gastric balloon may not see a significant reduction in weight. But following your post procedure weight loss plan carefully will help you to make the most of your gastric balloon treatment.
How long does a gastric balloon last?
Gastric balloons are only temporary. A swallowable gastric balloon can stay in place for up to four months before it deflates. You will not need to return to the clinic to have the balloon removed as it will pass naturally through your digestive system.
A gastric balloon that is put in place via an endoscope can be left for six months. The removal is done as a day case at the Cadogan Clinic and there is no need for an overnight stay.
You should have a liquidised diet for 48 hours and then 12 hours of fasting before the removal of the gastric balloon.
The endoscope is inserted down the throat and into the stomach, the balloon is punctured and the deflated remains are removed with the endoscope. The removal procedure takes 15 to 20 minutes and can be done under light sedation or a local anaesthetic throat spray. No general anaesthetic is required.
Is a gastric balloon uncomfortable?
Once the gastric balloon has settled it should not feel uncomfortable. However there can be a degree of discomfort after it has been placed in the stomach.
Most gastric balloon patients experience reflux because there is less room within the stomach. To avoid this, it is important that your meals are small and you take daily medication to suppress the stomach acid.
In the first 48 hours after having a gastric balloon installed, it is common to experience griping abdominal pains or cramps. This is because the balloon can irritate the muscle of the stomach wall. This usually settles over the course of a few days.
Nausea and vomiting is also a common after effect of having a gastric balloon fitted. This can affect up to 95 percent of people who have just had a gastric balloon installed. These gastric symptoms may last for two to three days after the procedure.
How should my diet change following a gastric balloon?
It is important that you make healthy changes to your diet to ensure you get the best results from your gastric balloon.
You should make sure that you eat regular meals. Ideally this should be three main meals and a mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack. After eating your evening meal you should wait at least two hours before going to bed.
Aim to drink at least 1.5 litres of water per day, but limit what you drink at mealtimes as this can fill you up.
You should avoid caffeine and fizzy drinks and foods containing simple carbohydrates such as sweets, chocolates, ice cream, pastries and dried fruit. Avoid foods and unhealthy habits that cause an increase in stomach acid.
It is important that you follow the meal schedule provided as closely as possible.
Are gastric balloons permanent?
Gastric balloons are not permanent. Depending on the type of balloon you have, they may last for four or six months. Some people may find that after their gastric balloon is removed they are able to stick to a healthy diet and continue their weight loss without the aid of a balloon.
After your gastric balloon is removed, it is possible to have a new one fitted.
If you were given a gastric balloon in order to lose enough weight in preparation for weight loss surgery, then you will go on to have a gastric bypass or gastric sleeve as planned. These weight loss surgeries are permanent.
How do I maintain my gastric balloon?
In order to maintain your gastric balloon, it is important that you follow your diet plan. You should avoid eating hard nuts and seeds and anything else that may potentially damage the balloon. If the balloon deflates and slips into the lower stomach or bowel it could cause an obstruction. This may lead to severe abdominal pain and vomiting.
Although the balloon is robust enough to remain safely in situ for up to six months, it should not be left in for a longer period of time as there is a slight risk of the stomach acid damaging the balloon.
Our expert consultant here at the Cadogan Clinic will talk you through the gastric balloon pros and cons and help you to decide whether this is the best weight loss option for you. Book an appointment today to discuss gastric balloon in London.
Founded in 2004 by world renowned plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, we now work with over 100 leading consultants and successfully treat over 20,000 patients each year. We have been winning industry awards since inception.
About UsBest in Class Facilities
All of our treatments take place at our beautiful boutique premises in Chelsea. We have six consulting rooms and five operating rooms, as well as a dedicated pre and post-operative suite, and a full team of specialist nursing staff.
Our ClinicA Strong Tradition of Innovation
We were founded in 2004 by world renown plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, best known for his pioneering work in the area of liposuction, lasers and microvascular surgery. We continue to collaborate with pioneers in our field.
Our HistoryAt Home in Sloane Street, London
We are proud that our state of the art award-winning clinic is located in one of the best neighbourhoods in the country
Welcome to Sloane StreetClinics Nationwide
We offer surgical consultations in London, Birmingham, Chelmsford and Bristol, and attract international patients from all corners of the globe such as as the USA, the Middle East and Europe.
Get in TouchAlthough having a gastric balloon does not involve invasive surgery, there are still some risks attached to the procedure.
It is common to have a sore throat, heartburn, indigestion, abdominal pain and cramps, nausea or vomiting after having a gastric balloon. If you cannot tolerate the balloon, or struggle to keep fluids down and this doesn’t settle, then you may need to have the balloon removed prematurely. This happens to fewer than three in 100 patients.
There is also a risk of bad breath as food can coat the balloon.
Other risks include a chest infection due to aspiration, balloon rupture, bowel obstruction or perforation, bleeding and breathing or airway complications. These are rare complications.
Weight Loss Surgery
We believe in the delivery of excellent outcomes and results, and exceptional levels of service. Our outcomes are natural and long-lasting, and we remain the premier choice for cosmetic surgery treatments in the UK.
Weight Loss Surgery
Gastric Band
Weight Loss Surgery
Gastric Bypass
Weight Loss Surgery
Gastric Sleeve
2023
Aesthetic Awards
Highly Commended Best Clinic in London
2021
Aesthetics Awards
Highly Commended
2021
My Face My Body
Best Clinic Winner
2020
My Face My Body
Best Clinic Winner
2019
My Face My Body
Winner
2018
My Face My Body
Highly Commended
2018
Aesthetics Awards
Highly Commended
2017
Aesthetics Awards
Winner