SurgiCare, leading UK cosmetic and weight loss surgery provider, has announced that the gastric balloon is the latest procedure to be added to its weight loss treatment portfolio.

SurgiCare has reported that the introduction of the air filled gastric balloon procedure directly responds to a gap in the current weight loss market and has proven to be less prone to side effects compared with the liquid alternative. The traditional liquid filled gastric balloons have been known to cause extreme nausea and discomfort due to the movement of the liquid content. The introduction of the gold coated, air filled balloon means that patients experience less nausea and discomfort, meaning a faster, safer recovery following the procedure. The gold coating is designed to prevent air loss and reduce the problem of deflation, which can occur in the fluid filled balloon option, ensuring the balloon stays at maximum volume for the full duration of placement, which can be up to six months. During this time, weight loss can be up to five stone.

SurgiCare is one of only two weight loss surgery providers to offer the procedure in the UK. Available exclusively to patients with a BMI of between 25-35, the gastric balloon offers patients who are struggling to find a weight loss solution an opportunity to control their weight. It is an industry concern that patients who do not meet the strict criteria for a gastric band or bypass may resort to more drastic measures such as over eating to reach the required BMI of 35 and above. The lowered BMI recommendation of a gastric balloon provides a weight loss option for those who would not previously be considered, providing a much needed alternative for those who have tried every other weight loss method.

The relatively simple procedure, takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. The balloon is inserted into the stomach under sedation or general anaesthesic and then filled with air. The filled balloon decreases the space available in the stomach making the patient feel ‘full’ quicker resulting in weight loss.

Mark Bury, chief executive at Surgicare commented: “The gastric balloon has been a staple weight loss procedure in the United States for many years. The introduction of the air filled balloon is a big step forward for weight loss procedures as it provides patients with the same results as a liquid filled balloon, but without the associated side effects.

He continued, “The addition of the procedure to SurgiCare’s weight loss portfolio will open the door to weight loss surgery for those who would not be considered for other procedures. The gastric balloon provides an excellent short term aid to weight loss and delivers fantastic results when combined with the diet and exercise program offered in our aftercare program.”

As part of the SurgiCare aftercare program it is recommended that patients carry out three hours of sporting activity each week and follow a coordinated diet plan to aid maximum weight loss.

About Surgicare:
With over 16 years experience and 8 clinics, SurgiCare is one of the largest and most respected cosmetic surgery networks in the UK. SurgiCare specialises in weight loss surgery with a unique 24 month aftercare programme and prides itself on providing an unrivalled aftercare service.

As one of the leading UK specialists in cosmetic surgery, SurgiCare has the all latest therapies and caring, professional experienced staff to enhance a patient’s self-confidence by improving appearances. SurgiCare has helped more than 20,000 patients fulfil their dreams of looking and feeling their best.

Via EPR Network
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