How long do I need to stay in Istanbul for a gastric balloon?

Most patients stay two nights, which the package covers. One extra night is sensible if nausea is strong or the flight home is long.

Can I fly after a gastric balloon?

Yes. Flying with a gastric balloon is safe. Most patients fly home the day after placement, with anti-nausea medication in their hand luggage.

Where is the gastric balloon clinic in Istanbul?

Gastric Balloon Turkey is at Fulya Street No:5, Nişantaşı, in the Şişli district on the European side of Istanbul.

How long does gastric balloon placement take?

Endoscopic placement takes about 20 to 30 minutes under sedation. Allurion placement takes about 20 minutes and normally needs no sedation.

Gastric Balloon in Istanbul: The Process Step by Step

Our clinic is in Nişantaşı, in the Şişli district on the European side of Istanbul. Most international patients spend two nights in the city for a gastric balloon. This page describes the process from the first message to follow-up at home.

Step 1: Assessment Before You Travel

You send us your age, height, weight, medications and medical history on WhatsApp. The doctor checks whether a balloon is suitable and which types can be considered. You receive the recommendation, the price and the package content in writing. See who is suitable for a gastric balloon.

Step 2: Choosing the Balloon and the Date

We offer four systems: Allurion, ORBERA365, Spatz3 and MedSil. Once you have chosen, we agree on a date. We are open Monday to Saturday.

Step 3: Arrival in Istanbul

Istanbul has two airports. Istanbul Airport (IST) is on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is on the Asian side. Airport transfers are part of the package, so a driver meets you at either one and takes you to the hotel.

Step 4: Consultation and Tests

You meet the doctor, go through your history again and have the required pre-procedure tests. This is the time to ask anything that is still unclear.

Step 5: Balloon Placement

Endoscopic balloons (Orbera, Spatz, MedSil)

You are sedated, the doctor examines the stomach with an endoscope, places the balloon and fills it with saline. This takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You rest under observation for a couple of hours.

Allurion

You swallow the capsule with water, an X-ray confirms the position, and the balloon is filled through a thin tube. This takes about 20 minutes and normally needs no sedation.

In uncomplicated cases you return to the hotel the same day.

Step 6: The First Night

Nausea, cramps and a heavy feeling are expected. You have medication for nausea and for stomach protection, and you drink small sips of liquid. Our team can be reached on WhatsApp if you are worried.

Step 7: Check Before You Leave

The team checks how you are doing, the dietitian goes through your plan for the coming weeks, and you receive your documents, including the balloon brand and serial information. Then you are taken to the airport.

How Long Should You Stay?

The package covers two hotel nights, and that is enough for most patients. If you have a long flight or your nausea is strong, one extra night is sensible. Avoid booking a flight for the evening of the procedure.

Flying Home

Flying with a gastric balloon is safe. For the flight:

Keep your anti-nausea medication in your hand luggage
Sip water regularly and avoid fizzy drinks
Choose an aisle seat if you can
Carry the document that states you have a gastric balloon

Follow-Up From Abroad

Dietitian support and follow-up continue by message and video call after you go home. For balloons that are removed by endoscopy, we plan the removal visit with you well in advance: after about six months for MedSil and up to twelve months for Spatz3 and ORBERA365.

Practical Information

Language: the team speaks English, and patient assistance is included
Visa: many European passport holders can enter Turkey without a visa for short stays. Check the current rules for your nationality before booking.
Currency: our prices are quoted in euros
Location: Fulya Street No:5, Nişantaşı, Istanbul
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 to 16:30

Costs

Packages range from €2,250 to €3,150 depending on the balloon. See the gastric balloon Turkey cost page.

Ask Which Balloon May Suit You

Send us your age, height, weight and medical history on WhatsApp or through our contact page. We will tell you which balloons may be suitable and confirm the package in writing.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Onur Peşluk, General Surgeon. Last reviewed: November 2026.

Medical disclaimer: This page gives general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Gastric balloon treatment has risks and is not suitable for everyone.