Am I a Candidate for the Spatz3® Adjustable Gastric Balloon?

By Dr. Alexander Shapsis, MD, Board-Certified Specialist in Gastroenterology and Obesity Medicine

⭐ Key Takeaways for Potential Spatz3® Patients

The BMI Sweet Spot: Ideally designed for those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30 and 40.
Adjustability is King: Spatz3® is the only gastric balloon that can be increased in volume to reignite weight loss or decreased to manage nausea.
Long-Term Habit Formation: With a 8-month implantation window, it provides double the time of standard balloons to reset your metabolic habits.
No Scars, No Surgery: The entire procedure is endoscopic, meaning no incisions, no stitches, and a rapid recovery.
Expert Oversight: Managed by Dr. Alexander Shapsis, MD, ensuring 20 years of clinical gastroenterology expertise guides your journey.

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The journey to a healthier version of yourself often hits a frustrating wall. You’ve tried the trending diets, the high-intensity workouts, and perhaps even weight-loss medications, yet the scale remains stubborn. In the past, the only remaining options were either to accept the plateau or undergo invasive, permanent bariatric surgery.

At EndoSlim Clinic FL and Khrom MedSpa & Weight Loss, we specialize in the Spatz3® Adjustable Gastric Balloon—the most sophisticated, non-surgical weight-loss tool available today. As a board-certified specialist with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen how this technology bridges the gap for those who aren’t candidates for surgery but need more than just lifestyle advice.

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What Makes a Strong Candidate for Spatz3®?

To determine if you are a candidate for the Spatz3® procedure, we look at several clinical and lifestyle indicators. A strong candidate for the Spatz3® gastric balloon is typically an adult with a BMI over 30 who has not achieved sustainable results through diet and exercise alone.

The BMI and Health Profile

The FDA has established clear guidelines for who can safely benefit from this technology:

BMI of 30–40: This is the standard range. If you are 30 to 60 pounds overweight, this tool is designed for you.
BMI of 27+ with Comorbidities: You are a candidate if you have a slightly lower BMI but suffer from weight-related conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes, Hypertension (high blood pressure), or Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
The “Surgical Avoidance” Group: If you have been told you need bariatric surgery but are fearful of permanent anatomical changes like a Gastric Sleeve, the Spatz3® offers a fully reversible alternative.

Physical and Medical Pre-requisites

Because the Spatz3® is placed endoscopically, your stomach must be in good health. You are likely a candidate if:

You have not had prior bariatric surgery (gastric bypass or sleeve).
You do not have a large hiatal hernia (over 5cm).
You are not currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant within the next year.
You do not have inflammatory GI diseases like Crohn’s or active stomach ulcers.

Why Adjustability is the “Secret Weapon” for Success

Most patients fear two things: the discomfort of a foreign object in their stomach and the inevitable weight-loss plateau. This is where the Spatz3® moves from a good tool to an elite one.

If you experience persistent nausea, Dr. Shapsis can “down-adjust” the balloon. In standard balloons, if you can’t tolerate the size, the balloon must be removed entirely, ending your progress. With Spatz3®, we simply reduce the volume, allowing your body to adapt without quitting.

If your weight loss stalls after 5 months, we can “up-adjust” the balloon. Your body is smart; it eventually learns to eat around a static balloon. By increasing the volume mid-treatment, we “trick” the stomach again, reigniting the feeling of early satiety and pushing you toward your goal weight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is the ideal candidate for a Spatz3® balloon?

The ideal candidate is an adult with a BMI between 30 and 40 who is committed to a 12-month lifestyle modification program and wishes to avoid invasive surgery.

How much weight can I lose with the Spatz3® balloon?

On average, patients lose 15% to 20% of their total body weight. For a 200lb patient, this typically results in a loss of 30 to 40 pounds within the one-year treatment window.

Is the Spatz3® procedure safe?

Yes. The Spatz3® has a high safety profile. It is a non-surgical, endoscopic procedure performed under light sedation, which eliminates the risks associated with general anesthesia and abdominal incisions.

Can the balloon be adjusted more than once?

Yes. One of the primary benefits is that the balloon can be adjusted multiple times to either manage patient comfort (decreasing volume) or boost weight-loss results (increasing volume).

What are the side effects of the gastric balloon?

The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, and gastric cramping during the first 3 to 5 days. These are typically managed with a specialized medication kit provided by Dr. Shapsis

Why should I choose Dr. Shapsis at Khrom MedSpa?

Dr. Alexander Shapsis is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist with 20 years of experience. Choosing a specialist ensures that your procedure is handled with the highest level of diagnostic precision and metabolic expertise.

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By debunking these myths, we hope more people feel comfortable taking the first step toward better health.
Your journey is personal — and you deserve clear, accurate information every step of the way.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Location: 12462 West Atlantic Boulevard, Coral Springs, FL
Phone: (954)-738-5886

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified physician regarding any medical condition or weight loss procedure. Individual results vary and depend on adherence to a supervised nutrition and exercise program.

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Dr. Tatiana Khrom, MD & Dr. Alexander Shapsis, MD

Dr. Tatiana Khrom, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with over 15 years of experience, and Dr. Alexander Shapsis, MD, a Board-Certified Specialist in Gastroenterology and Obesity Medicine with over 17 years of experience, are leaders in their respective fields.

Dr. Khrom offers expert cosmetic and surgical dermatology, specializing in Mohs surgery and advanced laser techniques. Dr. Shapsis provides effective, non-surgical weight loss solutions, utilizing personalized care and minimally invasive treatments. Together, they bring decades of expertise to help patients achieve their health and wellness goals with confidence.