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How sensible is it to combine the new weight-loss medications with the proven gastric balloon? A conversation with Weight Doctors® Managing Director Brigitta Lahode and one of our specialists in gastroenterology.
Medically reviewed byDr. med. Hans Werner SudholtSpecialist in internal medicineLast updated:
As of today: The conversation took place in August 2025; figures and locations reflect the situation at that time.
The discussion about new weight-loss medications is everywhere. But how sensible is it to combine them with proven methods such as the gastric balloon? We spoke about this with Brigitta Lahode, managing director of the Weight Doctors®, and one of our specialists in internal medicine and gastroenterology.
The Weight Doctors® work with internationally trained specialists – mostly from gastroenterology and visceral surgery – at 23 locations worldwide.
Our specialist in gastroenterology answers: “The figures are alarming worldwide. The WHO reports that the obesity rate has tripled since 1975. In Germany around 25% of adults are obese, in the USA over 42%. As a gastroenterologist I see the consequences every day: fatty liver, reflux disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and more. Patients often wait over 12 months for bariatric surgery in many centres.”
“That is why we have built up our network internationally. With 23 locations in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, South Africa and Namibia, we offer timely, non-surgical alternatives. More than 25,000 patients treated show how great the need is worldwide.”
Brigitta Lahode: “Media attention for GLP-1-based therapies is enormous worldwide. The medications are available differently from country to country – in Germany since 2022/2023, in other markets sometimes earlier or later. Demand exceeds supply worldwide, and many patients are looking for lasting alternatives.”
“These medications mimic the body’s own hormones, which increase insulin release, raise the feeling of fullness and influence eating behaviour via the central nervous system. In studies, total body weight fell by 15–22.5%. Everyday reality, however, is more complex and often looks different.”
Our specialist in gastroenterology: “International studies show that many patients stop treatment within a year; after two years it is up to 65%. Side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea are very common. And after stopping, two thirds of patients regain up to over 80% of the weight they lost.”
“Cost is an issue worldwide. In Germany health insurers do not cover this therapy for weight reduction, and it is similar in South Africa and Namibia. In the Netherlands and the United Kingdom there is partial reimbursement, but with strict conditions. Monthly costs of several hundred euros or pounds are not sustainable for many people.”
Our specialist in gastroenterology: “The gastric balloon is a proven method worldwide. It is placed endoscopically and can lead to a quicker feeling of fullness. International studies consistently show a weight loss of 10–15%. After a settling-in period of 3–5 days, no further medication is needed.”
“Prices differ from country to country. But everywhere the same applies: it is a one-off cost, not a monthly expense. The adjustable Spatz3 balloon is available in all our markets.”
You can find the current prices in Germany on the Weight Doctors® GASTRIC BALLOON page.
Brigitta Lahode: “We are represented in six countries on three continents. In Germany we have centres in Hamburg, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich and many other cities, in Austria in Salzburg. Waalre in the Netherlands, London in the United Kingdom and our locations in South Africa and Namibia complete the network.”
“Medically, all locations work to the same high standards. Our doctors are internationally trained specialists, mostly gastroenterologists and visceral surgeons. The treatment protocols are uniform, the quality is the same everywhere.”
Our specialist in gastroenterology: “The Spatz3 has been used in over 60 countries in more than 150,000 patients. What is special is that it can be adjusted: if someone tolerates the balloon poorly, we reduce the volume; if the effect wears off, we increase it. This can additionally support weight loss.”
“The studies for US approval (FDA) report a success rate of 84%. We see similar results in our markets – whether in Europe, Africa or elsewhere. The technique works across cultures.”
You can read more on the state of the research in the article Meta-analysis on the safety and effectiveness of the Spatz3 gastric balloon.
Our specialist in gastroenterology: “Internationally we see a clear trend towards combination therapy. The balloon mechanically ensures quicker satiety, while the medications act hormonally. Together this can achieve more than one method alone – without surgery.”
“We have developed concepts across countries: in Germany we offer special packages, in South Africa pay-as-you-go models. This flexibility is decisive for international success.”
You can read how the transition between the two methods can work in the article GLP-1 after a gastric balloon or endo sleeve.
Brigitta Lahode: “Yes, clear ones. In Germany and Austria we struggle with health insurance bureaucracy. In the Netherlands, acceptance of preventive measures is higher. In the United Kingdom we see long waiting times in the National Health Service, the NHS. In South Africa and Namibia the self-pay market is more established.”
“Medically, the challenges are the same everywhere, but the care structures differ greatly. Our advantage: we can combine proven processes from all countries.”
Brigitta Lahode: “An international approach with local expertise. The Weight Doctors® App with Weight Doctors® Mira works in seven languages. DNA analyses, 3D Bodyscans and nutrition counselling are uniform internationally, but adapted to each country.”
“Medical quality is the same everywhere. Whether you are treated in Hamburg, Salzburg, Cape Town or London – you receive the same care. That is the advantage of a network.”
Our specialist in gastroenterology: “Obesity is a serious condition. Be open about it and do not be ashamed. Use the experience and the options that exist today. What matters is that you get started.”
“We have experience with people of all cultures and backgrounds. Our teams speak many languages – German, English, Dutch and Afrikaans. We look for the right solution for everyone.”
Our specialist in gastroenterology: “The future is personally tailored and globally networked: genetic tests, AI-supported treatment, international treatment protocols. The combination of different therapeutic approaches is becoming the standard.”
“We continue to grow – with new markets and new technologies, but always with a focus on personal care. Our goal is to give people worldwide access to effective obesity treatment.”
Our specialist in gastroenterology: “Obesity knows no borders – and neither does our help. Whether you live in Berlin, Amsterdam, Johannesburg or Windhoek: we are here for you.”
“More than 25,000 patients in six countries have already started this journey with us. It is worth taking the first step.”
Brigitta Lahode is co-founder and managing director of the Weight Doctors®. She tells how it all began in the article The start of the Weight Doctors and in the interview for International Women’s Day.
How the gastric balloon works, which versions there are, which balloon suits whom, how treatment and nutrition proceed – and what matters after removal.
8 min
A 2025 meta-analysis of almost 5,000 people treated evaluates how effective and safe the adjustable Spatz3 gastric balloon is – and what its adjustable fill volume offers.
4 min
A helper that reminds you when you are full: how the gastric balloon works, which four versions there are and what to expect in the first few days.
6 min
* For patients with German statutory health insurance: if the medical indication is established in line with the DGAV guidelines, reimbursement may be possible.
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