The Difference Between a Gastric Sleeve Vs. Gastric Balloon

Imagine, after years of trying every diet under the sun, you've finally reached your goal weight. Like so many others struggling with obesity, reaching your goal was frustratingly out of reach until you found the right tool. 

Thanks to advances in medicine and surgery, diet and exercise are no longer your only weight-loss options. At Transform Bariatrics in Greenbelt and Germantown, Maryland, our bariatrician, Dr. Hitesh Amin, offers weight loss surgery and medical weight loss to help our patients reach their goals.

In this month's blog, we want to explain the difference between a gastric sleeve and a gastric balloon and how they can help make dreams come true.

About gastric sleeve

The gastric sleeve, also called the sleeve gastrectomy, is the most common weight loss surgery performed in the United States. It involves removing the outer portion of your stomach, creating a smaller, sleeve-like pouch. Following the gastric sleeve, you feel full fast and eat less. The procedure also lowers hunger by removing the part of the stomach that produces hunger hormones.

Many lose between 25 to 30% of their body weight within two years after surgery.

About gastric balloon

The gastric balloon is a nonsurgical weight loss procedure. It involves placing a medical balloon in the stomach and inflating it to minimize space. Like a gastric sleeve, a gastric balloon helps you lose weight by limiting the amount of food you eat.

We remove the balloon six months after placement. During this time, people lose about 10% of their body.

Gastric sleeve vs. gastric balloon

Gastric sleeve and gastric balloon procedures help people reach a healthier weight by making it easier for them to eat less. However, there are key differences between the two procedures.

The most obvious difference between gastric sleeve and gastric balloon is that one is permanent, and the other is temporary. You can't reverse the gastric sleeve, but having a gastric balloon may prepare you for a more permanent procedure. 

Another difference is weight loss. People may lose more weight with a gastric sleeve than with a gastric balloon. However, the gastric balloon is a weight loss option for people who can't have surgery due to potential risks related to their weight. 

Recovery time also differs, and you may need to take more time off from work following a gastric sleeve than a gastric balloon. Cost is also a factor, and the gastric balloon is a more affordable option since it doesn't require surgery and general anesthesia.

What tool is right for you?

Deciding between a gastric balloon and a gastric sleeve is difficult, but not one you need to make on your own. We're experts in weight loss and can help you make an informed decision about which tool is best for you. 

Are you frustrated with your weight loss journey? Is your weight affecting your health? Let us help you reach your goal. Call our office today or request an appointment online.