Can You Travel With A Gastric Balloon?

Introduction

The gastric balloon procedure, also known as an intragastric balloon, is a non-surgical weight loss method that involves the insertion of a balloon into the stomach to reduce its capacity and control the patient’s appetite. The procedure is commonly used for people who are obese or overweight and have failed to achieve significant weight loss through traditional diet and exercise methods.

Turkey has emerged as one of the popular destinations for gastric balloon procedures due to its affordable cost, high-quality medical facilities, experienced doctors, and welcoming environment for medical tourists. The procedure is available in various cities in Turkey, including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya, among others.

How is the Gastric Balloon Procedure Performed?

The gastric balloon is inserted into the stomach through the mouth and esophagus using an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera attached to its end. Once the balloon is in place, it is filled with a saline solution, which expands the balloon and reduces the stomach’s capacity to hold food. The procedure is performed under conscious sedation or general anesthesia, usually taking around 30 minutes to complete.

The balloon remains in the stomach for six months to a year, depending on the patient’s needs.

During recovery, you may experience nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. However, these symptoms usually subside after a few days, and patients can resume their daily activities within a week of the procedure.

The gastric balloon procedure is an effective weight loss method that helps patients lose up to 15-20% of their body weight. The procedure is particularly beneficial for people with a BMI of 30 or higher who risk developing obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Turkey’s medical tourism industry is well-established and home to many world-class medical facilities that offer gastric balloon procedures. These facilities are equipped with the latest technology and staffed by experienced medical professionals who handle the procedure with the utmost care and attention.

The gastric balloon Turkey procedure is significantly lower than in other countries, making it an affordable option for people looking to undergo the procedure without breaking the bank.

The cost varies depending on the medical facility, the doctor’s fees, and other factors, but it is generally 50-60% lower than in the United States or Europe.

Can You Travel With A Gastric Balloon?

Yes, it is generally safe to travel with a gastric balloon, but there are some things to remember before embarking on a trip. Most doctors recommend waiting at least two weeks after the procedure before traveling to allow time for the body to adjust to the balloon and recover from any discomfort or side effects.

During this time, it is important to follow the post-procedure diet and exercise guidelines given by the doctor to ensure a smooth recovery.

Once the initial recovery period has passed, traveling with a gastric balloon is generally safe, but some precautions must be taken. It is important to stay hydrated, as dehydration can cause discomfort and even lead to complications. Patients should also avoid consuming carbonated beverages, which can cause the balloon to expand and cause discomfort.

It is also a good idea to bring any medication prescribed by the doctor, such as painkillers or anti-nausea medication, in case of discomfort or complications. Patients should inform airline staff of their medical condition and bring a letter from their doctor outlining the procedure and its implications.

Traveling with a gastric balloon is safe if you take the necessary precautions and follow your doctor’s advice. It is a good idea to check with the doctor before traveling and inform them of any travel plans.

How Do You Sleep After A Gastric Balloon?

Sleeping after a gastric balloon procedure can be challenging for the first few days, but some tips can help you get a good night’s rest:

1. Sleep on an elevated surface: To reduce discomfort and avoid putting pressure on the stomach, patients should sleep on a high surface, such as a recliner or several pillows to prop up their upper body. This can help prevent acid reflux and improve sleep quality.
2. Sleep on the left side: Sleeping on the left side is recommended after a gastric balloon procedure as it can help the stomach empty more efficiently and reduce bloating.
3. Avoid sleeping on the stomach: Patients should avoid sleeping on their stomach after the procedure, as this can put pressure on the stomach and cause discomfort.
4. Take pain medication: If pain or discomfort persists, patients can take over-the-counter pain medication or medication prescribed by the doctor to help them sleep better.
5. Avoid drinking fluids before bed: To reduce the risk of acid reflux or other complications, patients should avoid drinking fluids for at least two hours before bed.

The Takeaway

The gastric balloon procedure is a safe and effective weight loss method available for those looking for a proven way to lose weight faster than traditional methods of weight loss. The procedure is performed by experienced doctors using the latest technology, and the recovery period is short, allowing patients to resume their daily activities within a week.

While you can get this procedure just about anywhere, the affordability of the procedure in Turkey has made it an attractive option for medical tourists looking to achieve significant weight loss. If you’re looking for a verified clinic with experienced cosmetic surgeons you can request the help of a medical travel agency like FlyMedi. The agency will help you arrange everything related to your trip and schedule hospital appointments in your chosen destination.

About Theresa Duncan

Originally from Detroit, MI, Theresa has been offering health and fitness advice for the last 30 years while working as an engineer. She decided to turn her passion into a profession, and finds nothing more satisfying than helping others reach their health and fitness goals.