Dr. Darrien Gaston, MD, FACP, FACG, is a leading specialist in the Obalon® Balloon System, offering a non-surgical approach to effective weight loss. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants in Beverly, Chicago, IL, Dr. Gaston provides personalized treatment plans to help patients achieve long-term weight management and improved health.
Obalon is a balloon system for weight loss that uses three specially-designed intragastric balloons. The balloons take up space in your stomach, so you eat less food and lose weight as a result.
Dr. Gaston places the balloons for six months, before removing them. The balloons are lightweight and about the size of a small orange.
The Obalon balloon system is combined with a professionally supervised nutrition and exercise program to achieve optimal weight loss. It supports your efforts to implement better lifestyle changes and keep the weight off long-term.
First, you have a consultation with Dr. Gaston to determine if the system is right for you. Dr. Gaston takes your medical history, evaluates your current health, and performs any necessary medical tests.
This is your time to talk about your expectations and ask questions. Dr. Gaston creates a customized weight loss treatment plan that includes nutrition and exercise.
There’s no sedation – just a quick, 10-minute in-office procedure.
Each balloon initially comes deflated and is located inside a small capsule connected to a catheter. You swallow the balloon capsule, and using the catheter and an X-ray machine to ensure the balloons are safely and correctly in your stomach, Dr. Gaston inflates the balloons with gas.
Dr. Gaston then removes the catheter, and you’re free to leave the office and resume your daily activities. You will receive a total of 3 balloons over a 6 month period of time. Each balloon is placed one at a time, approximately every two weeks for safe, progressive weight loss. Typically, you are asked to take daily acid-blocking medication during your balloon treatment.
After six months, Dr. Gaston removes the balloons in a 15-minute outpatient endoscopic procedure under light, conscious sedation.
Obalon is intended for people over the age of 22 with a BMI of 30 – 40 who’ve failed to achieve weight loss with diet and exercise. It’s also most effective if you use it in conjunction with healthy lifestyle changes.
Obalon doesn’t involve surgery, making it a popular choice. It’s a quick, convenient 10-15 minute procedure with no downtime.
The gas-filled balloons are lightweight, durable, and designed for patient comfort. There are no permanent changes to your digestive system, as the balloons are temporary.
Obalon has proven effective. If you’re interested in learning more about this innovative weight-loss system, call the Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants or book an appointment online today.
Don’t wait to take control of your digestive health. Schedule an in-person or telehealth consultation with Dr. Darrien Gaston today and get personalized care tailored to your needs.
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