Gastric balloon in Los Angeles

A temporary, non-surgical option placed through the mouth: what it is, who it is for and what to ask.

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What it is

An intragastric balloon is a soft device placed in the stomach through the mouth during an endoscopy, without surgical incisions, and filled to take up space. FDA-approved balloons are temporary and are removed endoscopically, generally after about six months. It is used together with a supervised nutrition and behavior program.

Who may qualify

FDA-approved balloons are indicated for adults with a BMI in roughly the 30 to 40 range who have not reached their goals with diet and exercise. People with certain stomach conditions, prior stomach surgery or who are pregnant are generally not candidates. A physician decides.

What recovery can look like

Many people go home the same day. Nausea, vomiting and cramping are common in the first days as the stomach adjusts. A liquid-to-soft diet is followed at first. The balloon is removed at the end of the treatment period; weight regain can occur if habits do not change.

Risks to understand

Risks include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, acid reflux, balloon deflation or movement, ulcers, bowel obstruction and, rarely, perforation. The device must be removed on schedule. Results vary and nothing is guaranteed.

Insurance and questions to ask

Many insurance plans do not cover balloons because they are considered temporary. Ask whether yours does, what the total cost includes (placement, removal, nutrition visits) and what happens if the balloon must come out early.

Informational website. It is not a medical practice, does not name or imply any particular doctor, and does not give medical advice. Using it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Content is general education only; talk to a licensed physician about your own care. Last reviewed: November 2026.