What a gastric balloon is
A gastric balloon is a soft balloon that sits in the stomach for a set treatment period. By taking up space, it helps you feel satisfied with smaller portions while you build new eating habits. It involves no cutting or stitching, and it is not permanent: the swallowable type passes naturally at the end of its treatment period, while the endoscopic type is removed in a second short procedure.
Before
A consultation with our specialist team to review your health, history and goals, confirm whether a balloon is suitable, and explain which type is recommended and why.
During
The swallowable balloon is taken as a capsule and filled through a thin tube, with no endoscopy. The endoscopic balloon is placed during a short procedure under sedation. Both are done at our Jumeirah 1 centre, with no incisions.
After
You go home the same day with clear guidance for the first days, then planned follow-up while the balloon is in place, with nutrition and lifestyle advice throughout.
Is a gastric balloon right for you?
A balloon is a tool, not a shortcut. The consultation settles whether it suits you, and our team will say so honestly either way.
Often considered by
- Adults living with excess weight, typically with a BMI above 27, assessed individually
- People who have tried diet and exercise and want structured medical support
- Those who would prefer a non-surgical option to start with
- Anyone ready to change eating habits alongside the treatment
Probably not the right option if
- you are under 18; gastric balloons are for adults
- you have had previous stomach surgery or have certain stomach conditions, which our team checks at consultation
- you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy during the treatment period
- you are looking for a guaranteed result without changing how you eat; results vary from person to person
How a balloon supports weight loss
The balloon itself does not burn fat. It makes the changes you are making easier to stick to, which is why the support around it matters as much as the procedure.
Feeling full sooner
With part of the stomach occupied, smaller portions feel satisfying, which helps you reduce how much you eat.
Building new habits
The treatment period is a window to establish portion sizes and routines you can keep after the balloon is gone.
Medical oversight
Planned follow-up means your progress and wellbeing are checked by the team, rather than left to you alone.
Gastric balloon treatment at Swift
Gastric balloonYour treatment is planned and followed up by our specialist team at our private, DHA-licensed day-surgery centre in Jumeirah 1, with both swallowable and endoscopic balloons available.
Consultation first
Our specialist confirms whether a balloon is suitable before anything is booked, and recommends the type that fits your health and goals.
Swallowable or endoscopic
Swallowable: taken as a capsule with no endoscopy, and passes naturally at the end of treatment. Endoscopic: placed, and later removed, during short procedures under sedation. Neither involves incisions, and you go home the same day.
Planned follow-up
Check-ins while the balloon is in place, with nutrition and lifestyle guidance to help you build lasting habits.
Insurance patients welcome
We accept insurance patients. Our team checks your policy's coverage with you before you commit.
What people ask about
Most people come to their consultation with the same questions. Here is the honest picture.
Is it surgery?
No. Neither type involves incisions. The swallowable balloon is taken as a capsule, and the endoscopic balloon is placed during a short procedure under sedation. Either way, you go home the same day.
How will I feel afterwards?
The first few days can bring nausea or cramping while your body adjusts. Our team explains what to expect and how it is managed before your procedure.
How much weight will I lose?
That varies from person to person and depends heavily on the eating and lifestyle changes made alongside the balloon. Nobody can honestly promise a number, and we will not.
Is it permanent?
No. The swallowable balloon passes naturally at the end of its treatment period, and the endoscopic balloon is removed in a short procedure. The aim is for the habits you build to last.
From first message to follow-up
Consultation
Meet our specialist team, review your health and goals, and confirm whether a balloon suits you and which type.
Insurance & preparation
We check your policy's coverage with you and give clear preparation instructions.
Procedure day
A short visit to our Jumeirah 1 centre, with no incisions: the balloon is swallowed as a capsule or placed endoscopically under sedation. Home the same day.
Follow-up
Planned check-ins and guidance while the balloon is in place.
Your questions, answered
Take the first step — discreetly
Message us on WhatsApp or request a callback. Our team usually responds the same day.
MOH: HE3UM8K8-151025
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