Swallowable Gastric Balloon treatment in Switzerland

Swallowable Gastric Balloon

Flavio Sonanini
Reviewed by Flavio Sonanini, Medical Travel Expert|Updated: January 2026

The swallowable gastric balloon (Elipse, Allurion) is a breakthrough weight loss device. You simply swallow a capsule containing a deflated balloon, which is then filled with fluid via an attached catheter. After 4 months, it deflates and passes naturally—no surgery, no endoscopy, no removal procedure.

What is Swallowable Gastric Balloon?

The swallowable gastric balloon (Elipse, Allurion) is a breakthrough weight loss device. You simply swallow a capsule containing a deflated balloon, which is then filled with fluid via an attached catheter. After 4 months, it deflates and passes naturally—no surgery, no endoscopy, no removal procedure.

What to Know Before You Go

💡 Pro Tip: Use the 4-month treatment window to develop healthy eating habits. The balloon is a tool—lasting success requires lifestyle change that persists after it passes.

⚠️ Insider Note: Temporary nausea in the first few days is normal and expected. Stay hydrated, take prescribed medications, and follow dietary guidelines closely—the discomfort passes quickly.

Cost of Swallowable Gastric Balloon in Turkey

Treatment
Turkey
UK
USA
Savings
Swallowable balloon
€2,000-€3,500
£4,000-€7,000
$5,000-€9,000
50-60%
With nutrition program
€2,500-€4,000
£5,000-€8,000
$6,000-€10,000
50-60%
Full support package
€3,000-€4,500
£6,000-€9,000
$7,000-€11,000
50-60%

Savings: Turkey offers 50-60% savings on swallowable gastric balloon compared to UK/USA prices.

What's Included

Swallowable gastric balloon packages in Turkey typically cover:

Pre-procedure consultation
X-ray confirmation
Balloon capsule and placement
Anti-nausea medications
Dietary guidance
App-based monitoring (with some systems)
Follow-up appointments
Nutritionist support

Benefits

No surgery or endoscopy required
15-20 minute simple procedure
No anesthesia needed
Same-day recovery
Average 10-15% weight loss
Balloon passes naturally at 4 months
Helps establish new eating habits
50-60% savings vs UK/USA

The Procedure

Step 1 – Consultation: Assessment, X-ray, candidacy confirmation.

Step 2 – Swallowing: Capsule swallowed with water (15 minutes).

Step 3 – Filling: Balloon inflated with 550ml fluid via thin catheter.

Step 4 – Confirmation: X-ray confirms proper stomach placement.

Duration: 15-20 minutes total, no anesthesia.

Recovery & Downtime

Day 1-3: Nausea, cramping, adjustment (medications help)
Week 1-2: Appetite adaptation, smaller portions
Month 1-4: Active weight loss phase
Month 4: Balloon deflates and passes naturally in stool

Potential Side Effects

Nausea for 1-3 days after placement (occurs in 70-90% of patients)
Abdominal cramping initially (occurs in 50-70%)
Vomiting in first 48 hours (occurs in 30-50%)
Acid reflux (occurs in 20-30%)
Rare: Early deflation (occurs in 2-5%)

Is Swallowable Gastric Balloon Right for You?

Ideal candidates:

BMI 27-40
Want non-surgical weight loss
Prefer avoiding endoscopy/anesthesia
Committed to lifestyle changes
Haven't succeeded with diet alone

Not suitable for:

Previous gastric surgery
Hiatal hernia larger than 3cm
Inflammatory bowel disease
Pregnancy or planning pregnancy
Not committed to dietary changes

Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight can I lose?

Average 10-15% of total body weight over 4 months. Results depend significantly on following the nutrition program and exercise. Some patients achieve 15-20% with strong commitment.

Is swallowing the capsule difficult?

No—most patients swallow it easily, like a large vitamin pill with water. The capsule is designed to be swallowed comfortably. Rarely, some need extra water or time.

Is there anesthesia?

None required—completely awake procedure with no sedation or endoscopy. This is a major advantage for patients who want to avoid anesthesia risks.

What happens after 4 months?

The balloon has a time-release valve that opens at approximately 4 months. It deflates and passes naturally through your digestive system in your stool—no removal procedure needed.

Are there side effects?

Temporary nausea and cramping in the first 1-3 days is common and expected. Anti-nausea medications help. Rare: early deflation (balloon passes early without weight loss benefit).

Who is a good candidate?

BMI 27+ who want non-surgical weight loss assistance. Ideal for those who prefer avoiding endoscopy and anesthesia. Must be committed to making dietary and lifestyle changes.

Can I exercise with the balloon?

Yes—exercise is encouraged for optimal weight loss results. Most activities are fine after the first week of adjustment. Avoid extreme sports initially.

What if I can't swallow the capsule?

Rare (less than 1%), but if it happens, endoscopic placement is available as a backup option. The clinic will guide you through alternatives.

Is This Right For You?

"Someone with BMI 27+ seeking non-surgical weight loss without the need for endoscopy or anesthesia."

Benefits

No surgery or endoscopy required

15-20 minute simple procedure

No anesthesia needed

Same-day recovery

Average 10-15% weight loss

Balloon passes naturally at 4 months

Helps establish new eating habits

50-60% savings vs UK/USA

The Process

Procedure

Step 1: Consultation and X-ray to confirm candidacy.

Step 2: Swallow capsule with water (15 minutes).

Step 3: Balloon filled with 550ml fluid via catheter.

Step 4: X-ray confirms proper placement.

Recovery & Downtime

Day 1-3: Nausea, adjustment period (medications provided). Week 1-2: Appetite adaptation. Month 1-4: Active weight loss phase. Month 4: Balloon deflates and passes naturally.

Potential Side Effects

  • Nausea for 1-3 days after placement (occurs in 70-90% of patients)
  • Abdominal cramping initially (occurs in 50-70%)
  • Vomiting in first 48 hours (occurs in 30-50%)
  • Acid reflux (occurs in 20-30%)
  • Rare: Early deflation (occurs in 2-5%)

Frequently Asked Questions

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