ORBERA INTRAGASTRIC BALLOON

The Orbera Intragastric Balloon is a non-surgical procedure designed to assist individuals who are overweight with a BMI between 27 and 35 and wanting to lose 10-15kg.The program also suits those who don’t want to undergo surgery for weight loss, but are motivated and ready to comply with a medically supervised lifestyle modification program.

This endoscopic procedure involves placing a non-fixed saline-filled silicone balloon in the stomach, reducing the food-holding capacity and calorie intake. The gastric balloon is inserted deflated through the oesophagus and filled with saline whilst patients are under a low dose of anaesthetic. The procedure takes 20-30 minutes and offers many overweight individuals a non-surgical alternative to weight loss, including those who don’t have private health insurance to help fund the cost of more expensive surgical procedures, like gastric banding or gastric sleeve. The Orbera System is also suitable for those needing to lose weight to suit their orthopaedic surgery needs.

The gastric balloon remains in the stomach for 6 months, with expected weight loss results of 10-15kg. A 12 month Lifestyle Modification Program compliments this procedure to assist patients in maintaining this weight loss after the balloon is removed. The 12 month lifestyle modification program includes support from our psychologist and dietitian. This procedure is generally not recommended for those with a BMI greater than 35. For more information on the Orbera Managed Weight Loss System, please visit:  www.orberasystem.com.au.

Gastric Balloon Costs - (As of July 1st, 2010)

Included in your package fee are the following consultations and support:

• Insertion and removal by the specialist in a day-surgical facility
• 5 Elective consultations with either Dietitian or Psychologist or (2 whilst balloon is in place and 3 following removal)
• 1 Dietitian appointment 23 weeks after insertion
• 4 Medical follow-ups with the specialist whilst balloon is in place
• 1 Diet Plate to assist with portion control education 

Initial consultations required to assess your eligibility:

• Initial specialist consultation $140 (GP referral required) - Medicare rebate applies
• 45 minute Dietitian consultation $120 - Health fund rebates may apply
• 45 minute Psychologist consultation $220 - No rebate available

Additional costs that may apply:

• Anaesthetist fee on insertion - Rebates may apply
• Anaesthetist fee on removal - Rebates may apply
• Additional hospital fees if no private health cover is held

Information Evenings

Why not attend an obligation-free information evening to hear more about the procedure.You will also hear from past patients about their experiences, good and bad, and be given the opportunity to ask questions so you can make an informed decision regarding your weight loss options. Information evenings are held each month in our clinic at John Flynn Hospital, Tugun, Gold Coast. To reserve a seat at the next Open Night for you and any guests please visit our registration page.

Please contact us for information on procedure costs, eligibility, and finance options.