Interview with Dr. Jan Kral on the Gastric Balloon ORBERA Method.
Are you trying diet after diet but the weight keeps returning? If your BMI is over 27 and you’re already facing early health issues (prediabetes, high blood pressure, fatigue), it may be time for a new approach.
One promising option is the ORBERA gastric balloon — a non-surgical, reversible method that helps jump-start significant weight loss without invasive surgery.
To learn who benefits most from a gastric balloon and what clients can expect, we spoke with expert in endoscopic procedures Dr. Jan Kral.
Who Is a Gastric Balloon Right For?
“Most commonly, patients with a BMI of around 27–40 who haven’t succeeded with conventional weight loss,” explains the doctor. The balloon isn’t only for severe obesity — it can be highly beneficial even with mild overweight, especially when health complications appear such as:
• prediabetes or type 2 diabetes
• high blood pressure
• fatty liver (NAFLD)
• insulin resistance
This stage is where weight reduction can significantly improve overall health.
How Does It Work?
The principle is simple yet effective. A silicone balloon is endoscopically placed into the stomach under short sedation (around 15–20 minutes) and the patient typically goes home the same day. The balloon occupies stomach volume, leading to:
• earlier satiety
• naturally smaller portions
• reduced overall calorie intake
The method is fully reversible — after 6 or 12 months, the balloon is removed.
Why This Type of Balloon?
According to Dr. Král, control and safety are key:
“Endoscopic placement and removal give us complete procedural control. The method is supported by strong clinical data, stable results, and an excellent safety profile.”
What Can Patients Expect?
“Typically, patients lose 10–15% of their starting weight within six months — about 10–15 kg.” Even more important than the number on the scale are the health benefits:
• improved blood sugar levels
• lower blood pressure
• better liver test results
• reduced risk of diabetes progression
Mild nausea or stomach pressure may occur in the first days — a normal adaptation reaction that usually subsides.
Why Nutrition Support Matters
“The balloon is a tool — long-term success depends on changed habits,” the doctor stresses. Patients with professional nutritional guidance:
• lose more
• maintain weight better
• develop sustainable eating routines
The goal isn’t just weight loss during the balloon period — it’s lasting lifestyle improvement.
Is It for Everyone?
No. Gastric balloons aren’t suitable for patients with active stomach ulcers, pregnancy, or serious eating disorders. Every patient needs individual medical assessment.
Considering Treatment?
Book a consultation to see whether this non-surgical weight loss method could be right for you. Weight reduction isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s an investment in lifelong health.