If you have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise but are not ready for bariatric surgery, a gastric balloon may offer another option.
Also known as an intragastric balloon, this temporary weight-loss treatment helps patients feel satisfied with smaller portions. Unlike gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery, it does not require surgical incisions that permanently alter the stomach or intestines.
At Surgery in Peru, patients interested in gastric balloon treatment in Lima are evaluated by Dr. Renato Landa, our general and bariatric surgeon experienced in surgical and non-surgical weight management.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Renato Landa
General and Bariatric Surgeon
CMP N.° 59085 | RNE N.° 26919
Last reviewed: August 2026
What Is a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon is a soft, expandable medical device that is temporarily placed inside the stomach.
The balloon is introduced through the mouth and oesophagus using an endoscope. Once correctly positioned inside the stomach, it is filled according to the specifications of the particular device.
Because the balloon occupies part of the stomach, it can help patients:
✓ Feel satisfied after eating smaller portions.
✓ Control appetite and portion sizes.
✓ Remain full for longer after meals.
✓ Develop healthier eating habits.
✓ Achieve gradual weight loss with professional support.
The procedure is generally performed with sedation and does not require abdominal incisions. Most patients return home on the same day.
How Long Does the Gastric Balloon Remain in the Stomach?
The gastric balloon is temporary and must be removed after the period established for the specific device. Many commonly used intragastric balloons remain in place for approximately six months.
Removal is normally performed through another endoscopic procedure. The balloon is emptied and carefully removed through the mouth.
The treatment does not end when the balloon is removed. Nutritional guidance, medical follow-up and sustainable lifestyle changes remain essential for maintaining the weight that has been lost.
Who May Be a Candidate for a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon may be considered for adults who:
✓ Are living with overweight or obesity.
✓ Have not achieved lasting results through diet and exercise alone.
✓ Prefer a temporary, non-surgical treatment.
✓ Are prepared to make changes to their eating habits.
✓ Can attend medical and nutritional follow-up appointments.
✓ Do not currently require, or are not ready for, gastric sleeve or bypass surgery.
However, the balloon is not suitable for everyone. Previous stomach or oesophageal surgery, active ulcers, certain digestive conditions, pregnancy and other medical factors may affect candidacy.
Dr. Renato Landa will review your medical history, BMI, previous weight-loss treatments, current medication and personal goals before recommending the most appropriate option.
How Much Weight Can You Lose with a Gastric Balloon?
Weight loss varies considerably from one patient to another. Results depend on starting weight, eating habits, physical activity, metabolism and commitment to the complete program.
Published clinical information commonly reports average weight loss of around 10% to 15% of total body weight with certain six-month balloon programs. However, this is not a guaranteed result, and some patients lose more or less.
The gastric balloon should be understood as a tool that makes portion control and lifestyle changes easier. Long-term results depend heavily on the habits developed while the balloon is in place.
What Is Recovery Like?
During the first few days, it is common to experience nausea, stomach discomfort, cramping or vomiting while the stomach adjusts to the balloon.
Medication may be prescribed to help manage these symptoms. Patients normally begin with liquids before gradually returning to soft foods and then a balanced diet, according to their medical and nutritional instructions.
Most symptoms improve as the body adapts. However, severe or persistent pain, repeated vomiting, abdominal swelling, breathing difficulty or an inability to tolerate liquids requires immediate medical assessment.
Although serious complications are uncommon, potential risks can include dehydration, ulcers, bleeding, balloon deflation, migration, obstruction and injury to the stomach or oesophagus.
Careful patient selection and continued follow-up are therefore very important.
Gastric Balloon, Weight-Loss Medication or Bariatric Surgery?
There is no single weight-loss treatment that is right for everyone.
A gastric balloon is temporary and does not permanently change the digestive system. Semaglutide and tirzepatide are medical treatments that work through hormones involved in appetite and fullness.
Gastric sleeve and gastric bypass are surgical procedures that generally produce greater and more durable weight loss in appropriately selected patients.
Dr. Renato Landa offers medical and surgical weight-loss options in Lima. This allows each patient to receive a personalized recommendation rather than being directed toward the same treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gastric Balloon Treatment
Is a gastric balloon considered surgery?
No. The balloon is normally placed endoscopically through the mouth, without abdominal incisions. However, it is still a medical procedure that requires appropriate evaluation, sedation and professional monitoring.
Is the gastric balloon permanent?
No. It is a temporary device and must be removed within the period established for the specific balloon being used.
Can the balloon be removed earlier?
Yes, removal may be possible if medically necessary or if the patient cannot tolerate the device. This decision should always be discussed with the treating doctor.
Will I regain weight after the balloon is removed?
Weight regain is possible if previous eating habits return. The purpose of the program is to help patients build sustainable habits while the balloon is in place.
Is gastric balloon treatment better than gastric sleeve?
Neither treatment is automatically better. A balloon is temporary and non-surgical, while gastric sleeve surgery permanently reduces the size of the stomach and generally produces greater weight loss. The best option depends on your health, BMI and goals.
Who performs gastric balloon treatment at Surgery in Peru?
Patients are evaluated and treated by Dr. Renato Landa, our general and bariatric surgeon in Lima with experience in comprehensive weight management.
Schedule Your Gastric Balloon Evaluation in Lima
The first step is a personalized consultation with Dr. Renato Landa. During your evaluation, he will review your health, weight history and previous treatments before explaining whether a gastric balloon, medical weight-loss program, gastric sleeve or gastric bypass may be most appropriate.
Book a consultation and receive a personalized medical evaluation. Together, we’ll develop a treatment plan tailored to your health, lifestyle and long-term goals.
📩 Contact Us for a Personalized Evaluation
📞 Call us: +51 922 435 001
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Dr. Renato Landa, MD, is a physician and surgeon specializing in bariatric surgery and comprehensive weight management.
CMP N.° 59085 | RNE N.° 26919
📍 Available at our Lince branch with Dr Renato Landa, bariatric surgeon.
📞 Virtual consultations are also available for patients who live outside Lima or are planning to travel to Peru for treatment.