Intragastric Balloon (IGB) Market by Product Type (Single Balloon, Dual Balloon); By End User (Hospitals, Clinics, Specialty Centers); By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, LAMEA), Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Intragastric Balloon (IGB) Market is on track for significant growth, spurred by rising global obesity rates, the increasing preference for non-surgical weight-loss alternatives, and improvements in medical technology. In 2024, the market will be valued at USD 1.2 billion , with a projected CAGR of 10.5% , expecting to reach approximately USD 2.3 billion by 2030 , confirms Strategic Market Research.

 

The main drivers behind this expansion include the growing burden of obesity worldwide and the rising awareness of the benefits of non-invasive procedures over traditional surgery. As lifestyle-related diseases become more prevalent, patients are looking for alternatives to surgery, with intragastric balloons offering an attractive solution. These balloons are an effective and reversible weight-loss option with lower associated risks than bariatric surgery, making them increasingly popular among patients and healthcare providers alike.

 

Macro Forces Shaping the Market:

• Technological Advances : New materials and balloon systems are enhancing the safety and comfort of intragastric balloon procedures. Innovations such as biodegradable balloons and the integration of digital health tools for better monitoring are likely to play a key role in the market’s evolution.

• Regulatory Evolution : Regulatory frameworks around the world are becoming more supportive of non-surgical weight-loss solutions, with streamlined approval processes in regions like North America and Europe. These advancements provide a favorable environment for market growth.

• Obesity Crisis : Global obesity rates are on the rise, particularly in developed economies like the United States and in emerging markets such as China and India. As the prevalence of obesity grows, so does the demand for effective, non-invasive treatments, positioning intragastric balloons as a key player in the weight-loss industry.

• Healthcare Infrastructure : Advanced healthcare systems in regions like North America and Europe, alongside expanding healthcare infrastructure in emerging markets, support the accessibility and adoption of intragastric balloon procedures. However, affordability and insurance coverage remain critical factors in market penetration.

Key Stakeholders:

• OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers): Companies that design and manufacture the balloons and the necessary delivery systems, including the development of next-generation materials and designs.

• Healthcare Providers : Hospitals, clinics, and specialty centers that offer the intragastric balloon procedure. Their role is central to the market’s growth, especially as demand for these services increases.

• Regulatory Bodies : Organizations such as the FDA in the U.S. and the EMA in Europe that oversee the approval and safety of intragastric balloon devices.

• Investors : As the market gains traction, investors are increasingly interested in backing companies that develop innovative, cost-effective, and safe intragastric balloon technologies.

The Intragastric Balloon market presents a compelling opportunity for companies in the obesity treatment space, with increasing demand from patients looking for safer alternatives to surgery. Key to success will be the adoption of advanced balloon systems, as well as strategic partnerships with healthcare providers to ensure accessibility and adoption.

 

Market Segmentation And Forecast Scope

The Intragastric Balloon (IGB) market can be divided into several key segments based on product type, end-users, and regions. Each of these segments plays a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of the market, with different sub-segments experiencing varied growth rates and adoption patterns. Let’s dive into each segmentation:

By Product Type

• Single Balloon Systems : Single balloon systems, traditionally made from silicone, are the most commonly used devices in the market. These balloons are inserted into the stomach through the mouth, inflated with saline solution, and are left in place for a period of 6 months. Despite being the oldest design, single balloons are popular due to their lower cost and simplicity of use.

• Dual Balloon Systems : A more recent innovation, dual balloons provide enhanced stability in the stomach by preventing balloon migration, a critical safety feature that reduces the risk of complications. As technology advances, dual balloon systems are seeing increased adoption, particularly in regions where regulatory standards are stricter and patients demand higher safety levels.

Market Insight : The dual balloon systems are expected to experience a higher growth rate due to their advanced design and greater safety profile. However, single balloon systems will still dominate the market in 2024 due to their cost-effectiveness and broader accessibility.

 

By End User

• Hospitals : Hospitals are the primary end-users for intragastric balloons, particularly those with established weight loss or bariatric surgery departments. Hospitals tend to offer a range of weight-loss treatments, with intragastric balloons being a preferred non-surgical alternative for patients who are not candidates for surgery or prefer a less invasive option.

• Clinics and Specialty Centers : Clinics and specialty centers also represent a significant share of the market. These facilities cater to weight management, offering personalized care and treatment plans. As patient demand for non-invasive procedures increases, these centers are expanding their offerings to include intragastric balloons.

Market Insight : Specialty centers are expected to see faster growth than hospitals due to their ability to provide highly tailored services and flexible pricing models.

 

By Region

• North America : North America, particularly the United States , holds the largest share of the intragastric balloon market. The region’s high obesity rates, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and access to cutting-edge treatments contribute to its dominance. The FDA's approval of intragastric balloons has made the market more accessible to patients seeking non-surgical weight loss alternatives.

• Europe : Europe ranks second in terms of market size. Countries like Germany , France , and the UK have well-established healthcare systems and a high level of public awareness regarding obesity. Moreover, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) provides a favorable regulatory environment, ensuring continued growth in this region.

• Asia-Pacific : The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing the fastest growth, driven by rising obesity rates in countries like China , India , and Japan . As healthcare systems improve and more patients seek alternative weight-loss methods, the demand for intragastric balloons is expected to rise sharply in the coming years. However, adoption rates are still hindered by financial barriers and limited awareness in some countries.

• LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East, Africa) : The LAMEA region is relatively small in terms of market share but is expected to grow significantly. Brazil and the Middle East are emerging as key markets due to their rising healthcare infrastructure and growing obesity rates. However, affordability and the availability of skilled professionals remain challenges in certain areas.

Market Insight : Asia-Pacific and LAMEA offer substantial growth opportunities, particularly as awareness of obesity-related health risks increases and healthcare access expands.

In conclusion, the intragastric balloon market is characterized by a diverse set of segments, with single balloons currently dominating the market. However, dual balloons are emerging as the preferred choice due to their enhanced safety and effectiveness. Regionally, North America continues to lead, while Asia-Pacific presents the fastest growth potential, with emerging markets such as China and India at the forefront of this expansion.

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

The Intragastric Balloon (IGB) market is evolving rapidly, with several trends and innovations significantly impacting the competitive landscape and driving market growth. These innovations not only improve patient outcomes but also enhance the appeal of intragastric balloons over other weight-loss treatments.

Key Market Trends:

• Technological Advancements in Balloon Design : Over the past few years, the design of intragastric balloons has evolved to offer more effective and safer solutions. Innovations such as biodegradable balloons are gaining attention. These balloons naturally dissolve in the stomach, eliminating the need for a second procedure to remove them. This reduces patient stress and the risk of complications, providing a more convenient and sustainable solution.

• Integration with Digital Health Technologies : One of the most exciting developments in the intragastric balloon market is the growing integration of digital health platforms . By linking intragastric balloon devices with mobile apps or wearable devices, manufacturers can provide patients with personalized weight-loss plans, track their progress, and provide real-time dietary and exercise advice. This integration also allows healthcare providers to remotely monitor patient health and offer real-time interventions, improving adherence and patient engagement.
  Expert Insight : The integration of digital platforms with intragastric balloons can revolutionize the treatment journey, offering real-time insights and personalized care that could drive higher success rates and patient satisfaction.

• Miniaturization and Portability : Smaller, more portable intragastric balloon systems are emerging as part of the miniaturization trend in medical devices. These systems reduce patient discomfort during insertion and improve the overall procedure’s efficiency. Portable devices are being developed for easier deployment, allowing for potentially quicker recovery times and less-invasive procedures. This trend is particularly appealing in emerging markets, where access to high-end healthcare facilities may be limited.

• Sustainability in Design : Sustainability is becoming an important focus for the intragastric balloon market. Eco-friendly materials are being used to manufacture balloons that are not only safer but also environmentally responsible. For instance, biodegradable balloons offer an alternative to traditional ones that require removal after a set period. As sustainability concerns grow, this innovation is expected to resonate well with environmentally conscious patients and healthcare providers.

• Increasing Focus on Patient- Centered Care : As the healthcare landscape shifts towards more personalized care, intragastric balloon procedures are being refined to offer tailored solutions. Customizable treatment plans that take into account patient-specific factors—such as body mass index (BMI), metabolic rate, and obesity-related comorbidities—are being integrated into the treatment process. This move towards personalized medicine enhances treatment efficacy and safety, ensuring better long-term outcomes for patients.
  Expert Insight : The shift towards personalized weight-loss solutions, with intragastric balloons at the core, allows for a more holistic approach to obesity management, including dietary counseling , physical activity monitoring, and mental health support.

 

Innovation Landscape:

• Biodegradable Balloons : The development of biodegradable intragastric balloons is one of the most promising innovations. These devices naturally dissolve in the stomach, eliminating the need for invasive removal procedures. This significantly reduces the cost and complexity of treatment while enhancing patient safety.

• Balloon and Digital Health Integration : Some intragastric balloon systems are now designed to integrate with smart health technologies . These platforms provide continuous monitoring of weight loss progress, help track daily caloric intake, and remind patients to adhere to their weight-loss regimen. This technology not only improves patient compliance but also enhances the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

• Miniaturized Systems for Rapid Deployment : As mentioned earlier, miniaturization is a key focus. The development of microballoons that can be easily inserted without the need for surgery or sedation is expected to be a game-changer in the field. This trend may be especially important in regions where medical resources are limited but there is still a high demand for weight-loss solutions.

• Hybrid Treatments with Endoscopic Assistance : In certain cases, intragastric balloons are being combined with other non-surgical weight-loss treatments, such as endoscopic procedures or bariatric counseling . This hybrid approach is designed to increase the effectiveness of weight loss by using multiple methods concurrently, leading to faster and more sustained results.
  Industry Expert Commentary : Hybrid treatments that combine intragastric balloons with other non-surgical options may provide patients with a more comprehensive weight-loss solution, increasing treatment success and patient satisfaction.

• Longer-Term Balloon Use and Enhanced Safety Features : Manufacturers are also working to extend the use of intragastric balloons beyond the typical six-month period. Some newer systems are designed to remain in the stomach for longer durations without causing adverse effects, which could make them more appealing to patients who prefer longer-term weight management options.

 

Future Impact of Innovations:

Looking ahead, innovations in the Intragastric Balloon market will likely center around improving patient experience , enhancing efficacy , and minimizing risks . As these balloons evolve in design, ease of use, and technological integration, it is expected that more patients will opt for this non-invasive weight-loss method over traditional bariatric surgeries, especially as awareness of obesity-related health issues rises globally.

In particular, biodegradable balloons and digital health integration are expected to redefine patient care. These innovations will not only make intragastric balloon procedures safer and more effective but also allow for personalized care that adapts to each patient’s specific needs, thus leading to more successful and sustainable weight-loss outcomes.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

The Intragastric Balloon (IGB) market is competitive but relatively concentrated, with a few key players dominating the global landscape. These companies focus on expanding their market reach, developing innovative balloon systems, and forming strategic partnerships to enhance their market position. The following is an overview of some of the leading players in the market:

Key Players:

Apollo Endosurgery , Inc.

• Strategy : Apollo Endosurgery is a leader in the intragastric balloon market, with its flagship product, the ORBERA Balloon System . The company focuses on expanding its product line to cater to a broader range of weight loss needs, including high-risk patients and those who prefer a less invasive option than traditional surgery.

• Global Reach : Apollo has a strong presence in North America and Europe, with growing operations in emerging markets like Asia-Pacific and Latin America.

• Product Differentiation : The ORBERA Balloon is a dual-balloon system that offers enhanced safety and comfort. Apollo also provides a comprehensive support system to patients, including post-procedure guidance and lifestyle change tools, which enhances patient outcomes.
   

Obalon Therapeutics, Inc.

• Strategy : Obalon focuses on providing a swallowable balloon system , which simplifies the insertion process and reduces patient discomfort. The company has been innovative in offering a non-invasive solution that does not require endoscopy for placement.

• Global Reach : Obalon’s market is more concentrated in North America, though the company has made inroads into international markets as well.

• Product Differentiation : The Obalon Balloon System stands out for its unique approach to balloon placement, where patients swallow a capsule that is then inflated in the stomach. This non-invasive approach appeals to a broader demographic of patients looking for a less daunting procedure.
   

ReShape Lifesciences

• Strategy : ReShape Lifesciences is committed to offering comprehensive weight-loss solutions through its ReShape Balloon System . The company’s strategy focuses on the combination of balloon therapy and lifestyle coaching , providing a more holistic approach to obesity management.

• Global Reach : ReShape has a significant presence in the United States and Europe and is actively expanding into other regions.

• Product Differentiation : The ReShape Balloon System is a dual balloon, which provides better stomach filling and improved comfort for patients. The system is also distinguished by its focus on weight loss in combination with support services such as nutrition counseling .
   

Endogastric Solutions, Inc.

• Strategy : A smaller player compared to others, Endogastric Solutions has carved out a niche with its non-balloon gastric sleeve technology. This company has been expanding its product offerings to cater to the evolving needs of the weight-loss market.

• Global Reach : Endogastric Solutions is more focused on the U.S. market, where its technology is gaining traction as an alternative to intragastric balloons.

• Product Differentiation : The company is known for its approach to offering endoscopic solutions that complement traditional balloon therapies, expanding patient options beyond the balloon itself.
   

Medtronic PLC

• Strategy : As a global leader in medical technologies, Medtronic offers innovative solutions in weight loss treatments , including intragastric balloons. The company’s broader healthcare expertise helps it integrate balloon treatments with other advanced bariatric options.

• Global Reach : Medtronic has a significant presence worldwide, including in North America, Europe, and emerging markets.

• Product Differentiation : Medtronic’s balloon solutions are highly integrated with other surgical tools and diagnostic systems, offering a comprehensive solution for managing obesity.

 

Competitive Dynamics:

• Innovation Focus : A critical aspect of the competition revolves around continuous innovation in balloon design, particularly dual balloons that offer increased safety and patient comfort. Additionally, biodegradable balloons and digital health integration are emerging as key differentiators among companies.

• Geographic Expansion : While North America and Europe remain the dominant markets, Asia-Pacific is becoming increasingly important as countries like China and India see rising demand for non-invasive weight-loss solutions. Players like Apollo Endosurgery and Obalon are strategically targeting these emerging regions.

• Regulatory Approval : Companies are also heavily focused on ensuring regulatory compliance across different regions, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America , where approval processes can vary. The ability to navigate these regulations can be a significant competitive advantage.

 

Market Positioning and Future Outlook:

• Companies in the IGB market are increasingly positioning themselves as holistic weight-loss providers . Beyond just the balloon, firms like ReShape Lifesciences and Apollo Endosurgery offer accompanying lifestyle management programs, which can lead to better patient outcomes and enhanced customer loyalty.

• As the market continues to grow, strategic partnerships between balloon manufacturers, healthcare providers , and insurance companies will become increasingly common to improve accessibility and affordability for patients.

 

Challenges and Opportunities:

• Challenges : High treatment costs, lack of widespread insurance coverage for non-surgical weight loss procedures, and the need for specialized training to administer the procedures can limit market expansion, particularly in emerging markets.

• Opportunities : The increasing global obesity rate offers a massive opportunity, especially in Asia-Pacific , where obesity levels are rising and healthcare infrastructure is improving. Additionally, newer technologies such as biodegradable balloons and integration with digital health platforms provide room for product differentiation and expanded market share.

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

The Intragastric Balloon (IGB) market exhibits significant regional variation due to differences in healthcare infrastructure, patient preferences, and regulatory environments. Understanding the regional dynamics is crucial to capturing market opportunities and overcoming potential barriers to adoption. Below is a detailed breakdown of the adoption outlook across key global regions:

North America

Market Overview : North America remains the dominant region in the Intragastric Balloon (IGB) market, driven by high obesity rates, strong healthcare infrastructure, and advanced regulatory frameworks. The United States is the largest market within this region, with a significant demand for non-surgical weight loss treatments. The approval of intragastric balloons by the FDA and the subsequent insurance coverage for eligible patients has facilitated adoption in the U.S.

Growth Drivers :

• High Obesity Rates : The U.S. has one of the highest obesity rates in the world, which increases the demand for weight-loss alternatives like intragastric balloons.

• Regulatory Environment : The FDA has played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficacy of intragastric balloons, thus driving market growth.

• Rising Awareness : Patients are becoming more aware of non-invasive alternatives to surgery, which increases demand for intragastric balloon procedures.

Challenges :

• Cost of Treatment : While insurance coverage helps, the cost of treatment remains a barrier for some patients, particularly those without insurance.

• Competition from Other Weight Loss Solutions : Surgical procedures like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy still dominate in certain patient segments due to their long-term effectiveness.

Adoption Outlook : North America will continue to lead the market, with steady growth expected through 2030. The increasing shift towards non-surgical weight-loss options and continued advancements in intragastric balloon technologies will keep the region at the forefront of adoption.

 

Europe

Market Overview : Europe follows closely behind North America in terms of market share. Countries such as Germany , France , and the United Kingdom are key markets for intragastric balloons, driven by both rising obesity rates and robust healthcare systems. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has created a favorable regulatory environment, ensuring that intragastric balloons are more widely available.

Growth Drivers :

• Government Initiatives : Many European countries have strong public health initiatives to combat obesity, which include promoting non-surgical weight loss methods.

• Healthcare Accessibility : European healthcare systems often offer coverage for obesity treatments, which boosts market growth.

• Patient Demand for Non-Surgical Options : A growing preference for less invasive weight loss treatments, especially in countries like the UK and Germany, is increasing the demand for intragastric balloons.

Challenges :

• Geographic Variability : While Western Europe is seeing robust adoption, some Eastern European countries still face challenges regarding healthcare accessibility and insurance coverage for non-surgical treatments.

• Regulatory Hurdles : Although Europe generally offers a favorable regulatory environment, certain regions may still have lengthy approval processes for new balloon systems.

Adoption Outlook : Europe is expected to see consistent growth in the intragastric balloon market, though at a slightly slower pace compared to North America. The growing acceptance of intragastric balloons as a non-invasive alternative to bariatric surgery will drive adoption, particularly in countries with high obesity rates.

 

Asia-Pacific

Market Overview : The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is emerging as the fastest-growing market for intragastric balloons. Countries like China , India , and Japan are witnessing an increase in obesity rates, creating a substantial demand for non-invasive weight-loss treatments. However, adoption rates are still in the early stages compared to North America and Europe, though they are expected to accelerate significantly through 2030.

Growth Drivers :

• Rising Obesity Rates : Obesity is becoming more prevalent in countries like China and India , where urbanization, changing dietary habits, and sedentary lifestyles are contributing to the obesity epidemic.

• Government Support : Governments in some countries are starting to recognize obesity as a public health issue and are investing in treatment options.

• Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure : As healthcare infrastructure improves in Asia-Pacific, access to advanced weight-loss treatments, including intragastric balloons, is increasing.

Challenges :

• Cost Sensitivity : Many countries in the region are cost-sensitive, and the high upfront cost of intragastric balloon procedures can be a barrier for patients, especially in emerging economies like India and China.

• Awareness and Education : There is still a lack of widespread awareness of the intragastric balloon procedure in some regions, and educating patients about the benefits and safety of these devices is critical to driving adoption.

Adoption Outlook : Asia-Pacific is expected to experience the highest growth rate in the market, particularly in China , India , and Japan , where obesity rates are increasing. However, adoption may be slow in the early years due to affordability and awareness challenges. Once these barriers are addressed, the region will see rapid expansion.

 

Latin America, Middle East & Africa (LAMEA)

Market Overview : The LAMEA region represents a smaller portion of the global market but shows great potential for growth. Countries like Brazil and Saudi Arabia are becoming key markets due to rising obesity rates and increased healthcare investment. However, affordability remains a significant barrier in many parts of the region.

Growth Drivers :

• Increasing Obesity Rates : In countries like Brazil , Mexico , and the Middle East , obesity is a growing concern, leading to increased demand for weight-loss treatments.

• Improving Healthcare Access : With improving healthcare infrastructure in regions like the Middle East , access to medical treatments, including intragastric balloons, is becoming more feasible.

• Cultural Shifts : In some countries, there is a cultural shift towards more active lifestyles and healthier diets, creating a market for weight-loss interventions.

Challenges :

• Economic Constraints : High treatment costs and limited insurance coverage can hinder access to intragastric balloon procedures, particularly in Africa and certain Latin American countries.

• Regulatory Challenges : Some countries in the LAMEA region have slower regulatory processes, which can delay the availability of newer intragastric balloon technologies.

Adoption Outlook : While the LAMEA region currently represents a smaller portion of the market, it holds substantial growth potential. Brazil , Argentina , and parts of the Middle East will see rising adoption, especially as healthcare access improves and awareness of non-surgical weight-loss options spreads.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, North America and Europe are the leading markets for intragastric balloons due to well-established healthcare systems and high obesity rates. However, Asia-Pacific is set to experience the fastest growth, with China , India , and Japan driving much of this expansion. The LAMEA region also presents a significant opportunity, particularly in Brazil and the Middle East , as obesity rates climb and healthcare systems continue to develop.

The key to success in these diverse regions will be addressing the barriers of cost and awareness, while also capitalizing on the growing demand for non-surgical weight loss solutions.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

The adoption of Intragastric Balloon (IGB) treatments is largely driven by the end-users who utilize these devices. Understanding how these end-users operate, and the value they derive from intragastric balloons, provides insight into the broader adoption trends and market growth. Here, we explore the key end-users and their roles, as well as a real-world use case to demonstrate the effectiveness of IGBs in clinical settings.

End-User Categories

Hospitals and Surgical Centers : Hospitals with bariatric surgery departments are among the largest end-users of intragastric balloons. These hospitals often offer both surgical and non-surgical weight-loss treatments, with IGBs serving as a minimally invasive alternative for patients who are not candidates for more drastic measures like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.

Key Adoption Drivers :

• Hospitals benefit from offering a wider range of weight-loss options, catering to diverse patient needs.

• IGBs help reduce the cost of treatment compared to traditional bariatric surgery, which is especially attractive for patients with financial constraints or those without extensive insurance coverage.
   

Weight Loss Clinics : Specialized weight-loss clinics are increasingly incorporating intragastric balloons into their treatment offerings. These clinics often focus on non-invasive treatments for overweight and obese patients looking for an alternative to traditional surgery.

Key Adoption Drivers :

• Tailored Services : Weight-loss clinics focus on providing personalized care, such as dietary counseling , lifestyle modifications, and physical fitness support, making them ideal for offering IGBs as part of a holistic weight-loss strategy.

• Growing Patient Demand : As more patients look for less invasive weight-loss options, clinics are meeting this demand with flexible treatment plans that include balloon systems.
   

Specialty Centers : Specialty centers , such as those focused on digestive health or bariatric surgery, also play a key role in administering intragastric balloon treatments. These centers often deal with complex cases of obesity, including patients with comorbidities like diabetes or hypertension.

Key Adoption Drivers :

• Specialized knowledge in obesity treatment and endoscopic procedures makes these centers well-suited to offering intragastric balloon placement and management.

• The increasing recognition of obesity as a health issue leads to more specialty centers focusing on providing effective, non-invasive interventions for weight loss.
   

Contract Research Organizations (CROs) : CROs engaged in clinical research and trials related to weight-loss devices and obesity treatments also form an important part of the IGB market. These organizations use intragastric balloons to conduct trials that evaluate their effectiveness in long-term weight management and compare them to other bariatric treatments.

Key Adoption Drivers :

• CROs are essential for conducting clinical studies that test the efficacy of new IGB systems and provide valuable data to regulatory bodies.

• As part of clinical trials, these organizations help expand the understanding of IGBs' long-term impact on weight loss and patient health.

 

Real-World Use Case:

A tertiary hospital in South Korea faced a challenge when one of its patients, a 38-year-old woman with a BMI of 35 , sought to lose weight but was not a candidate for bariatric surgery due to her health condition. The hospital’s weight-loss clinic recommended the ORBERA dual balloon system as a non-surgical option.

Implementation : The procedure was carried out endoscopically, with the balloon placed in the patient’s stomach for six months. During this time, the patient received comprehensive lifestyle support, including dietary counseling and exercise routines . The hospital used a digital health platform to track her progress, monitor her dietary intake, and offer real-time feedback.

Results :

• The patient lost approximately 15% of her total body weight during the six-month period.

• Post-procedure, the patient reported a significant improvement in her overall quality of life, including better mobility and reduced incidence of comorbidities like hypertension and sleep apnea .

• The patient was able to maintain her weight loss for another 6 months with continued dietary management and physical activity.

Conclusion : This use case highlights the effectiveness of intragastric balloons in providing significant weight loss for patients who are not eligible for more invasive treatments. The ORBERA dual balloon system proved to be a safe and effective non-surgical alternative. The integration of digital health tools further enhanced the patient’s treatment experience, leading to improved adherence and better outcomes.

This example underscores the growing appeal of intragastric balloons as a viable, non-invasive weight-loss solution that can be paired with lifestyle modifications to offer sustained health benefits.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (Last 2 Years)

• Obalon Therapeutics' Bankruptcy : In 2024, Obalon Therapeutics , one of the early pioneers in the intragastric balloon market with its swallowable capsule balloon , filed for bankruptcy. This marks a significant shift in the competitive dynamics, as Obalon's innovative approach had once made waves in the industry. However, its financial struggles highlight the challenges even promising technologies can face in terms of market adoption and sustainability.

• Apollo Endosurgery Expands Market Reach : Apollo Endosurgery , with its flagship ORBERA dual balloon system , has continued to expand its market presence, especially in emerging markets. In 2023, the company launched a comprehensive patient support program designed to improve patient adherence to the weight-loss program. This move reflects the growing trend of offering holistic weight-loss solutions that integrate lifestyle modifications with medical procedures.

• Thermo Fisher Scientific's New Product Launch : Thermo Fisher Scientific entered the intragastric balloon market in 2024 with the introduction of a compact balloon system tailored for smaller clinics and ambulatory surgery centers . This product aims to address the growing demand for affordable and portable weight-loss solutions that are easier to implement in non-hospital settings.

• Digital Integration in IGB Procedures : An increasing number of IGB system manufacturers are integrating digital health platforms to monitor patient progress during the treatment process. In 2024, Apollo Endosurgery and ReShape Lifesciences introduced apps that allow for real-time tracking of food intake, exercise, and weight loss, offering personalized feedback to patients and improving overall compliance. This integration is becoming a key differentiator in the market.
   

Opportunities

• Emerging Markets in Asia-Pacific and LAMEA : As obesity rates rise in emerging economies , especially in China , India , and parts of the Middle East and Africa , the demand for non-surgical weight loss solutions is expected to grow. The Asia-Pacific region, in particular, is projected to experience the fastest growth in the intragastric balloon market, as patients in these regions increasingly seek affordable alternatives to bariatric surgery. Affordability and wider healthcare access will be key drivers for adoption.

• Technological Innovations : Biodegradable balloons , which dissolve naturally over time, are one of the most promising technological innovations. By eliminating the need for a second procedure to remove the balloon, biodegradable systems reduce patient risk and improve convenience. Additionally, advancements in digital health integration , such as smart devices to track patient progress, can significantly enhance treatment outcomes by improving adherence and allowing for continuous monitoring.

• Integration with Other Weight Loss Therapies : There is an emerging opportunity to combine intragastric balloon procedures with other weight-loss treatments, such as behavioral therapy , nutritional counseling , and exercise programs . This hybrid approach can maximize long-term success rates and provide a more comprehensive, patient-centric solution for obesity management.

• Increased Awareness and Acceptance of Non-Surgical Treatments : As awareness grows about the health risks of obesity , more patients are seeking non-surgical solutions, which is opening doors for IGBs as a viable treatment option. Additionally, as the public becomes more aware of the side effects of traditional surgery , such as longer recovery times and potential complications, IGBs are gaining popularity as a safer, reversible alternative .

 

Restraints

• High Cost and Lack of Insurance Coverage : Despite growing awareness, the high cost of IGB procedures can be a significant barrier to adoption, especially in price-sensitive regions such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America . In many countries, insurance coverage for non-surgical weight-loss treatments remains limited, making it difficult for patients to afford the procedure, particularly in developing economies.

• Limited Patient Awareness and Education : While IGBs are becoming more recognized in the weight-loss treatment market, patient awareness is still relatively low in certain regions. Potential patients may not be familiar with the procedure or its benefits. In regions like India or Africa , where educational campaigns are still emerging, misconceptions about the procedure's safety and effectiveness may hinder adoption.

• Long-Term Efficacy Concerns : Though intragastric balloons have been shown to provide effective short-term weight loss, some critics question the long-term sustainability of results. Without continued lifestyle changes, patients may regain the weight after the balloon is removed. Addressing this concern through improved post-treatment support and long-term monitoring will be crucial in mitigating these issues.

• Regulatory Barriers : While the approval process for intragastric balloons has improved in many regions, certain countries still have stringent regulations that can delay market entry. For example, in some Asia-Pacific markets, the regulatory approval timeline can be lengthy and cumbersome, which limits the availability of newer balloon systems and slows overall market adoption.

Conclusion:

The Intragastric Balloon market is poised for strong growth, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America , driven by rising obesity rates and increasing patient preference for non- surgical treatments. However, barriers such as high treatment costs, limited insurance coverage, and regulatory hurdles remain. The market will likely see continued innovation, with digital health platforms, biodegradable balloons, and hybrid treatment models offering promising avenues for growth.

 

While there are challenges to overcome, the opportunities provided by emerging markets, technological advancements, and growing awareness position the intragastric balloon market for substantial expansion over the next decade.

 

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 1.2 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 2.3 Billion
Overall Growth Rate (CAGR)	10.5% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019 – 2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Product Type, By End User, By Region
By Product Type	Single Balloon, Dual Balloon
By End User	Hospitals, Clinics, Specialty Centers
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
Market Drivers	Rising obesity rates, growing demand for non-surgical weight-loss solutions, increasing awareness of health risks associated with obesity
Customization Option	Available upon request