How Do Different Gastric Balloons Compare for Weight Loss at 12 Months

A 2026 study compared two types of intragastric balloon, a device that is swallowed and fills with fluid, and an adjustable device placed and modified through a procedure, tracking weight and metabolic results in adults with overweight or obesity. Both balloons produced meaningful weight loss and improvements in blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

The Study Looked at 239 Adults Completing Balloon Treatment at a Single Centre

Researchers conducted a retrospective analysis, meaning they reviewed existing patient records rather than running a new trial, at one centre. Of 357 patients originally treated, 239 completed treatment and were included in the analysis. Weight, blood sugar, blood fats and blood pressure were measured before treatment and at its end, with weight also recorded at a shared 12 month point.

Both Balloons Helped With Weight Loss, but the 12 Month Picture Differed Between Devices

At the end of each treatment period, both devices reduced weight, blood sugar and harmful blood fats, and raised beneficial cholesterol. When researchers compared everyone at the same 12 month point, the adjustable balloon showed greater total weight loss, roughly 1 in 10 kilograms of body weight, compared with about 6.6 percent in the swallowable group. Improvements in blood sugar and blood fats were similar between the two devices and were not simply proportional to how much weight was lost.

This Was a Single Centre Study and the Comparison Between Devices Should Be Read With Caution

Because far fewer patients in the adjustable balloon group had complete follow up data, the researchers note the difference between devices should be understood as an upper bound rather than a firm conclusion. This was a retrospective single centre study, so findings may not reflect results across all settings or populations. Results also vary from person to person.

About this research: Weight Loss and Metabolic Outcomes of a Swallowable Fluid Filled versus an Adjustable Intragastric Balloon in Adults with Overweight or Obesity: A Retrospective Single Center Study with 12 Month Weight Outcomes, Obesity Surgery, 2026. Read the study summary

More about this treatment option is on our intragastric balloon page. If you are considering your options, call us on (03) 9760 2777 or request an appointment through our website.