December 13, 2016 – The Bariatric Medical Institute of Texas (BMI of Texas) today announced it is the first and only weight loss practice in south Texas to offer the new Obalon Balloon System, a swallowable intragastric balloon system designed to help achieve weight loss in adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30-40.
The Obalon Balloon System, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in September 2016, is intended to be used in conjunction with a diet and behavior modification program. Three Obalon Gastric Balloons are placed in the patient’s stomach within three months of the six-month treatment period. All balloons must be removed six months after the first balloon is placed. Obalon is the first and only FDA-approved swallowable, gas-filled intragastric balloon system for the treatment of obesity,
Patients interested in learning more about the Obalon system and meeting the BMI of Texas surgeons to discuss weight loss options are encouraged to attend a free educational seminar. Seminar schedules can be accessed by calling 210 615 8500 or contacting april.hernandez@bmioftexas.com.
According to the BMI of Texas surgical team, Obalon offers numerous benefits for patients. Patients swallow the balloons at the doctor’s office (no anesthesia required) and are able to return immediately to work. The procedure is appropriate for patients with a BMI of 30-40 (which is lower than bariatric surgery candidates) and patients reported few side effects.
“The three small Obalon balloons, when combined with a diet and exercise program, jump-start a person’s weight loss efforts. Studies show the Obalon system compares favorably to other balloon systems in terms of maintenance of longer term weight loss and it is significantly better in terms of uncomfortable side effects,” said Dr. Terive Duperier. “Our goal is to help our patients lead healthier lives and we can help them accomplish this in a variety of ways, whether it’s a balloon system, bariatric surgery or via our medical weight loss program. Everyone at BMI of Texas is focused on helping our patients lose weight and keep it off, leading to a healthier lifestyle.”
BMI of Texas provides innovative and comprehensive medical and surgical care to patients with obesity and metabolic disease. The physicians and staff are dedicated to creating an enduring partnership with patients in order to ensure their long-term success. They are committed to providing care in a supportive, compassionate, and guilt-free environment. In addition to its medical weight management program, BMI of Texas helps patients achieve their weight loss goals and improved health through various surgical procedures including gastric bypass, lap band and gastric sleeve.
BMI of Texas weight loss surgeons Terive Duperier, MD, FACS, Richard Englehardt, MD, FACS, and Michael Seger, MD, FACS, have been recognized by San Antonio Scene in the magazine’s annual listing of the city’s top physicians. Dr. Jennifer Seger, who heads up the practice’s medical weight loss program, was recognized as a “Best of 2016” doctor in the Bariatric Medicine category. The BMI of Texas doctors have repeatedly been recognized by their peers dating back the awards’ inception in 2005.
About BMI of Texas:
Founded in 2008, the Bariatric Medical Institute of Texas is focused on helping patients achieve their long-term weight loss goals. More information on the practice can be found online at bmioftexas.com.