Gastric Balloon in Australia
Gastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical weight loss procedure that helps you lose 10-15% of your body weight over 6-12 months. Find qualified specialists, transparent pricing, and comprehensive guidance across Australia.
Quick Answer
How much does gastric balloon cost in Australia?
$8,000-$12,000 total cost. No private health insurance coverage. Medicare provides a $1,200-$1,800 rebate for eligible patients. Temporary procedure lasting 6-12 months.
- • Procedure cost: $6,000-$8,000
- • Removal cost: $2,000-$4,000
- • No surgery required (endoscopic)
- • Best for BMI 30-40 patients
What is Gastric Balloon?
Gastric balloon, also known as an intragastric balloon, is a non-surgical weight loss procedure that involves placing a soft silicone balloon inside your stomach through an endoscopic procedure (no incisions required).
Once in place, the balloon is filled with saline solution, taking up space in your stomach. This creates a feeling of fullness, helping you eat smaller portions and lose weight. The balloon remains in place for 6-12 months, then is removed using the same endoscopic technique.
Unlike surgical weight loss procedures, gastric balloon is temporary and completely reversible. It's designed to help you establish healthier eating habits and kickstart weight loss, particularly for those not ready for or eligible for surgery.
Expected Weight Loss Results
Most gastric balloon patients lose 10-15% of their total body weight over the 6-12 month placement period.
Individual results vary based on adherence to diet and lifestyle changes during and after balloon placement. The balloon is a temporary tool to help establish lasting healthy habits. Long-term success requires maintaining these changes after balloon removal.
Diagram: Gastric Balloon Placement
What's Involved in the Gastric Balloon Procedure
Step-by-Step Procedure Process
Light Sedation
You'll receive light sedation (conscious sedation) - you'll be drowsy but able to breathe on your own. The entire procedure takes only 20-30 minutes.
Endoscope Insertion
A thin, flexible endoscope (camera tube) is gently passed through your mouth and into your stomach. This allows the doctor to examine your stomach and ensure suitability for the balloon.
Balloon Placement
A deflated silicone balloon (attached to a thin tube) is passed through the endoscope into your stomach. The balloon is positioned in the stomach cavity.
Balloon Inflation
The balloon is filled with sterile saline solution (approximately 400-700ml) through the tube. Once filled, the filling tube is gently detached and removed, leaving the balloon sealed inside your stomach.
Completion & Recovery
The endoscope is removed and you're taken to recovery. Most patients go home the same day, usually within 1-2 hours after the procedure.
Procedure & Recovery
- Procedure: 20-30 minutes
- Hospital: Same day (outpatient)
- Return to normal activities: 3-7 days
- Balloon duration: 6-12 months
Procedure Details
- Approach: Endoscopic (no incisions)
- Anaesthesia: Light sedation
- Scars: None (non-surgical)
- Reversibility: Fully reversible
Benefits & Advantages
- ✓ Non-surgical (no incisions or scars)
- ✓ Quick 20-30 minute procedure
- ✓ Same day procedure (outpatient)
- ✓ Fully reversible and temporary
- ✓ Lower cost than surgical options
- ✓ Minimal recovery time (3-7 days)
- ✓ Can help establish healthy eating habits
- ✓ Option for lower BMI patients (27-40)
Risks & Considerations
- • Lower weight loss than surgical options (10-15%)
- • Nausea and vomiting (common first 3-7 days)
- • Stomach discomfort and cramping initially
- • Balloon deflation possible (rare, <1%)
- • Gastric ulcers or erosion possible
- • Must be removed after 6-12 months
- • Weight regain common after removal
- • Not covered by most private health insurance
Your specialist will discuss all potential risks and benefits during your consultation. Gastric balloon is considered safe with lower immediate risks than surgery, but requires commitment to diet and lifestyle changes for successful outcomes.
Am I Eligible for Gastric Balloon?
General Eligibility Criteria
BMI 27-40 (wider eligibility than surgical options)
Age 18-65 (ideal candidates)
Previous weight loss attempts unsuccessful through diet and exercise
Commitment to lifestyle changes: Willing to modify diet and exercise habits during and after balloon placement
No previous gastric surgery: Stomach must be intact and healthy
Who Gastric Balloon is For
- ✓ People with BMI 27-40 not eligible for surgery
- ✓ Those wanting a non-surgical option
- ✓ Patients not ready for permanent surgery
- ✓ People needing to lose weight before surgery
- ✓ Those seeking temporary weight loss assistance
- ✓ Patients wanting to establish healthy habits
Who Gastric Balloon May Not Be For
- ✗ People with BMI over 40 (surgery usually better)
- ✗ Those with previous gastric surgery
- ✗ Patients with large hiatal hernia
- ✗ Those with severe acid reflux or stomach ulcers
- ✗ Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy soon
- ✗ Those seeking permanent weight loss solution
Common Reasons Patients Choose Gastric Balloon
- → Avoid surgery and anaesthesia
- → Lower BMI (27-35) not eligible for surgery
- → Test weight loss before committing to surgery
- → Pre-surgery weight loss requirement
- → Kickstart weight loss and habit change
- → Want temporary, reversible option
- → Medical conditions prevent surgery
- → Faster recovery needed for work/family
Cost of Gastric Balloon in Australia
Gastric balloon is the most affordable weight loss procedure in Australia. Costs vary depending on your location, specialist experience, and the type of balloon used.
Standard Cost (Self-Funded)
Total out-of-pocket cost
- No waiting period
- Payment plans available
- Fastest booking available
Insurance Coverage
Most funds don't cover gastric balloon
- Not covered by most private health insurance
- No Medicare rebate available
- Self-funding usually required
What's Included in the Cost?
- • Specialist consultation and assessment
- • Gastric balloon device
- • Balloon insertion procedure
- • Light sedation/anaesthesia
- • Balloon removal procedure (6-12 months later)
- • Follow-up appointments
- • Nutritional counselling
- • Support programme access
Factors That Affect Pricing
- Location: Sydney and Melbourne typically cost more than regional areas
- Balloon type: Different brands (Orbera, Spatz, Elipse) have different costs
- Specialist experience: Experienced gastroenterologists may charge higher fees
- Facility: Private hospital vs specialist clinic
- Duration: 6-month vs 12-month balloon options
- Support programme: Extent of dietary and lifestyle support included
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Use Free Cost CalculatorNote: Gastric balloon is generally not covered by Medicare or private health insurance as it's considered a non-essential aesthetic procedure. Most patients self-fund. Check with your insurer for specific coverage details.
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Gastric Balloon Timeline
Here's what to expect during your 6-12 month gastric balloon journey, including initial adjustment, weight loss phase, and balloon removal.
1-3
Insertion & Adjustment Period
What to Expect:
- • Procedure takes 20-30 minutes
- • Go home same day (1-2 hours after)
- • Nausea and vomiting common
- • Stomach cramping and discomfort
- • Anti-nausea medication provided
- • Rest at home recommended
Diet:
- • Clear liquids only
- • Water, broth, sugar-free jelly
- • Sip slowly and frequently
- • Aim for 1.5-2L fluids daily
- • Avoid carbonated drinks
- • Take small sips (30ml at a time)
1-2
Adaptation Phase
What to Expect:
- • Discomfort gradually improving
- • Nausea reducing
- • Feeling of fullness from balloon
- • Return to normal activities (days 3-7)
- • Learning new portion sizes
- • Initial weight loss beginning
Diet:
- • Progress to full liquids
- • Protein shakes (2-3 per day)
- • Smooth soups
- • Milk, yoghurt
- • Target: 60g+ protein daily
- • Small, frequent sips
3-4
Soft Foods Introduction
What to Expect:
- • Adjusted to balloon presence
- • Feel full with small portions
- • Steady weight loss
- • Increased energy
- • Light exercise possible
- • Regular check-in with specialist
Diet:
- • Soft, easily digestible foods
- • Scrambled eggs, soft fish
- • Mashed vegetables
- • Cottage cheese, yoghurt
- • Small portions (½-¾ cup)
- • Eat slowly, chew thoroughly
2-6
Active Weight Loss Phase
What to Expect:
- • Maximum weight loss period
- • Established eating routine
- • Feeling satisfied with small portions
- • Regular exercise routine
- • Monthly check-ins
- • Building healthy habits
Diet & Lifestyle:
- • Regular solid foods
- • Protein-focused meals
- • Small portions (¾-1 cup)
- • 3 meals + 1-2 snacks daily
- • Avoid high-calorie drinks
- • Regular physical activity
6-12
Maintenance & Balloon Removal
What to Expect:
- • Weight loss plateauing
- • Balloon must be removed at 6-12 months
- • Removal procedure (20-30 minutes)
- • Same day procedure
- • Transition to maintaining weight
- • Continued lifestyle support
After Removal:
- • Stomach returns to normal size
- • Must maintain healthy habits
- • Risk of weight regain if habits slip
- • Continue small portions
- • Regular exercise essential
- • Follow-up support available
Contact Specialist If You Experience
- • Severe, persistent vomiting (>24 hours)
- • Severe abdominal pain
- • Inability to keep any liquids down
- • Fever or signs of infection
- • Black or bloody stools/vomit
- • Sudden change in urine colour (blue/green - indicates balloon deflation)
Note: Individual experiences vary. The first 3-7 days are typically the most uncomfortable. Always follow your specialist's specific instructions and attend all follow-up appointments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about gastric balloon in Australia
How much does gastric balloon cost in Australia?
Gastric balloon in Australia typically costs between $8,000 and $12,000. This includes the balloon device, insertion procedure, removal procedure, and follow-up appointments. Most private health insurance funds do not cover gastric balloon as it's considered non-essential. Payment plans are usually available.
Is gastric balloon safe?
Gastric balloon is generally safe when performed by experienced specialists. As a non-surgical procedure, it carries lower risks than surgical options. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and discomfort for the first 3-7 days. Serious complications such as balloon deflation, gastric obstruction, or ulceration are rare (less than 1%).
How long does gastric balloon stay in?
Gastric balloons remain in place for 6-12 months depending on the type. Most modern balloons are designed for 6-month placement. The balloon must be removed at the end of this period through an endoscopic procedure similar to the insertion. Extended placement beyond the recommended timeframe increases risks.
How much weight will I lose with gastric balloon?
Most gastric balloon patients lose 10-15% of their total body weight over the 6-12 month placement period. For example, someone weighing 100kg may lose 10-15kg. Weight loss is typically greatest in the first 3 months. Results depend heavily on adherence to diet and lifestyle changes during and after balloon placement.
What happens after gastric balloon is removed?
After removal, your stomach returns to its normal size within days. Many patients experience weight regain if they don't maintain the healthy habits established during balloon placement. Studies show patients who commit to lifestyle changes maintain 50-70% of their weight loss long-term. Continued dietary modifications, exercise, and behavioral support are essential.
Does the first week feel bad?
The first 3-7 days are typically uncomfortable with nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramping being common. Most patients describe feeling like they have the flu. Anti-nausea medication helps manage symptoms. By day 7-10, most patients feel significantly better and can resume normal activities. The discomfort is temporary and improves daily.
Can the balloon pop or leak?
Balloon deflation is rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases. If the balloon deflates, the blue dye in the saline will color your urine blue or green - a clear warning sign. A deflated balloon can potentially pass into the intestine and cause obstruction. If you notice blue/green urine, contact your specialist immediately for balloon removal.
Is gastric balloon better than gastric sleeve?
They serve different purposes. Gastric balloon is non-surgical, temporary, lower cost, but achieves less weight loss (10-15%). Gastric sleeve is surgical, permanent, higher cost, but achieves greater weight loss (60-70%). Balloon is ideal for BMI 27-40, those wanting non-surgical options, or as pre-surgery preparation. Sleeve is better for BMI 40+ and permanent solutions.
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Medical Disclaimer
Important: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results from gastric balloon vary based on numerous factors including adherence to dietary protocols, exercise, and individual physiology. Weight loss figures and timeline are based on clinical averages and may not reflect your experience. Gastric balloon carries risks including nausea, vomiting, balloon deflation, gastric ulceration, and gastric obstruction. Weight regain after balloon removal is common without lifestyle maintenance. The balloon is temporary and must be removed after 6-12 months. Always consult with qualified, experienced healthcare providers before making decisions about weight loss procedures. Information on this page is current as of January 2025 and should be verified with your specialist. Gastric balloon is generally not covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia.
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