Question:
HAS ANYONE HEARD OF A WLS THAT THEY PUT A BALLON IN THE STOMACH AND INFLATE IT??

   — Octavia M. (posted on May 15, 2003)

May 15, 2003
I thought about having this done when it was the "in" thing several years ago. The idea was they put a balloon in your stomach, inflated it and left it there. The theory was that the balloon took up the space in your stomach so you couldn't eat much. This passed by pretty quickly because people had many problems with pain and irritation. I doubt if this is still around, but if it is, I would steer clear. I don't believe it worked very well at all. I knew a couple of women who tried it way back when, and neither could tolerate it and had it removed after a coule of weeks of pain and discomfort.
   — koogy

May 15, 2003
It had a bad record for ulcers, deflations and bowell obstructions requiring surgery. Last I heard its still being done internationally but doesnt sound like a good idea.
   — bob-haller

May 15, 2003
My understanding was that it could only be in place for 4 months. I knew someone who had it done, back in the dark ages. Before her first RNY. I know they are using internationally to knock a few pre-op pounds off people to shrink the liver, but there is no intent to leave it in place.
   — vitalady

May 15, 2003
I had this done in the mid 80's. I had it for 3 months then replaced and I decided not to have it done a 3rd time. I would wake up and my stomach was growling so it seemed painful. I would drink water to help it stop hurting. As I look back it was most likely the beginnngs of an ulcer. I have had gastric bypass surgery and ate very little and NEVER had the stomach growlings and pain that I did then so that is why I think it was an ulcer. I only lost maybe 25 lbs and I wouldn't even consider it when this gastric bypass is available. IMHO. Rita Brymer
   — Rita B.