세계 위내 풍선 시장 규모는 2024년 7,019만 달러에 달했습니다. 향후 IMARC Group은 2033년까지 시장이 1억 6,963만 달러에 달할 것으로 예상하며, 2025-2033년 9.79%의 CAGR을 기록할 것으로 예측했습니다. 2024년 시장은 북미가 지배적이었습니다. 높은 비만율, 헬스케어의 발전, FDA의 조기 승인, 비수술적 체중 감량에 대한 수요 증가 등이 위내 풍선 시장 점유율의 한 요인으로 작용하고 있습니다.
이 시장은 전 세계 비만율 증가와 과체중과 관련된 건강 문제 증가로 인해 견인력을 얻고 있습니다. 풍선은 비수술적이고 일시적인 체중 감량 솔루션을 제공하기 때문에 침습적 시술에 대한 대안을 찾는 환자들에게 매력적입니다. 디지털 건강 캠페인과 의료진의 추천을 통해 인지도가 높아진 것도 수요를 더욱 촉진하고 있습니다. 삼킬 수 있는 풍선, 가스 충전 풍선, 조절 가능한 풍선 등의 기술적 개선은 환자의 편안함을 높이고 대상자를 확대하고 있습니다. 또한, 일부 국가의 보험 정책 지원과 의료 관광의 성장, 특히 저렴한 가격으로 내시경 수술을 제공하는 지역에서의 의료 관광의 성장이 채택을 촉진하고 있습니다. 또한, 새로운 시장에서의 규제 당국의 승인으로 접근성이 확대되고, 단기간의 체중 감소에 대한 풍선의 효과를 뒷받침하는 임상적 근거가 신뢰성을 높이고 있습니다. 이러한 요인들이 결합되어 특히 생활습관 관련 건강 문제가 증가하고 있는 도시 지역에서는 위내 풍선 시장의 성장에 유리한 환경이 조성되고 있습니다.
미국에서는 새로운 디자인의 위내 풍선 시스템이 비수술적 체중 감량 방법을 발전시키고 있습니다. 정해진 시간에 수축되어 자연적으로 배설되는 삼킬 수 있는 캡슐은 편의성과 안전성을 높였습니다. 향후 10년간 지적재산권 보호가 확대됨에 따라 이러한 기술 혁신은 보다 광범위한 사용과 임상적 수용을 위한 무대를 마련하고 있습니다. 예를 들어, 2025년 4월 리쉐이프 라이프사이언스는 USPTO로부터 위내 풍선 특허(출원 18/241,151)에 대한 허가 통지를 받았습니다. 이 특허는 자가 밀봉식 충전 밸브와 분해 가능한 방출 밸브를 갖춘 삼킬 수 있는 캡슐을 대상으로 하며, 3개월 후 수축되어 자연적으로 배설되도록 설계되어 있습니다. 이 시스템은 비수술적 체중 감량 솔루션에 혁신을 가져옵니다. 특허가 발급되면 최소 2031년 1월까지 보호받을 수 있습니다.
비수술적 체중 감량 대체 요법에 대한 수요 증가
위내 풍선 시장의 전망은 체중과 관련된 건강 문제의 확산으로 인해 비침습적 치료에 대한 관심이 높아짐에 따라 계속해서 밝은 전망을 보이고 있습니다. 위내 풍선은 수술 없이 의학적으로 관리된 체중 감량을 원하는 사람들에게 선호되는 선택이 되고 있습니다. 위내 풍선은 수술 없이 의료적 관리 하에 체중 감량을 원하는 사람들에게 선호되는 선택지가 되고 있습니다. 이러한 기기는 가역적이고 집중적이지 않은 접근 방식을 제공하며, 긴 회복 기간과 영구적인 해부학적 변화를 피하고자 하는 환자와 임상의 모두에게 어필할 수 있습니다. 또한, 의학적 지도하에 이러한 시술이 생활습관의 변화와 통합될 수 있다는 점도 매력적입니다. 의료 시스템이 비만 관련 질환 관리에 대한 압박이 증가함에 따라, 안전하고 효과적이며 비용에 민감한 조기 개입 방법이 더욱 중요해지고 있습니다. 특히 첨단 수술 치료에 대한 접근성이 제한적인 지역에서는 인식 개선 캠페인과 의료계의 폭넓은 수용으로 인해 채택이 더욱 가속화되고 있습니다. 세계보건기구(WHO)의 보고에 따르면, 2022년 18세 이상 성인 25억 명이 과체중이며, 그 중 8억 9,000만 명이 비만을 앓고 있다고 합니다.
체중 관리에서 최소침습 수술로의 전환
임상적 선호도는 전통적인 개복 수술에서 보다 최소침습적인 방법으로 꾸준히 이동하고 있습니다. 더 작은 절개, 더 짧은 입원 기간, 더 빠른 회복 시간을 필요로 하는 시술이 의사와 환자 모두에게 지지를 받고 있습니다. 위내 풍선 시장 예측에 따르면, 이러한 변화는 안전성, 편의성, 수술 후 합병증 감소를 선호하는 체중 관련 중재 방법의 광범위한 변화를 반영합니다. 위내 풍선은 이러한 움직임에 잘 부합하며, 저위험 솔루션을 원하는 환자들의 요구에 따라 일시적이고 비수술적 대안이 될 수 있습니다. 점점 더 많은 의료진들이 최소침습적 접근 방식을 채택함에 따라 환자의 편안함과 외래 치료 모델을 우선시하는 임상 현장에서 이러한 장비가 널리 사용되고 있습니다. 최근 한국에서 실시된 조사에 따르면, 개복수술에서 최소침습적 수술로 전환하는 추세를 보이고 있습니다. 개복수술 비율은 2014년 49.8%에서 2019년 27.6%로 감소했습니다.
비수술적 체중 감량 기기에 대한 검증 강화
임상 연구는 비수술적 체중 감량 옵션에 대한 신뢰를 높이고 있습니다. 위내 풍선은 라이프스타일 프로그램과 함께 의미 있는 결과를 가져오는 능력으로 주목받고 있습니다. 최근 시험 데이터는 장기간 지속되는 체중 감소와 우수한 안전성 프로파일을 강조하고 있어 수술의 대안을 찾는 환자들에게 폭넓게 사용될 수 있도록 뒷받침하고 있습니다. 이러한 연구 결과는 의사들의 판단에 영향을 미치고, 보다 광범위한 채택을 위한 규제 경로를 형성할 수 있습니다. 최소한의 위험으로 측정 가능한 결과를 가져다주는 치료법, 특히 체계적인 생활습관 지원과 결합된 치료법에 대한 관심은 계속 증가하고 있습니다. 덜 침습적인 방법으로의 전환은 임상 현장에서도, 환자들의 선호도에서도 두드러지게 나타나고 있습니다. 이는 안전성, 편리성, 장기적인 효과에 초점을 맞춘 보다 광범위한 위내 풍선 시장 동향을 반영합니다. 예를 들어, 2025년 1월 Allurion Technologies는 Allurion Balloon에 대한 FDA의 주요 테스트인 AUDACITY 테스트의 주요 결과를 보고했습니다. 550명 이상이 참여하여 풍선 2주기 또는 생활습관 요법을 받았습니다. 48주 시점에서 풍선 투여자의 58%가 체중이 5% 이상 감소했습니다. 대조군 대비 체중감량 차이(3.77%)는 통계적으로 3%의 우월성 마진을 놓쳤지만, 40주째에는 그 마진을 넘어섰습니다. 심각한 이상반응은 3.1%로 낮게 나타났습니다.
The global intragastric balloons market size was valued at USD 70.19 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 169.63 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.79% during 2025-2033. North America dominated the market in 2024. High obesity rates, advanced healthcare, early FDA approvals, and growing demand for non-surgical weight loss are some of the factors contributing to the intragastric balloons market share.
The market is gaining traction due to increasing global obesity rates and rising health concerns linked to excess weight. These balloons offer a non-surgical, temporary weight loss solution, appealing to patients seeking alternatives to invasive procedures. Growing awareness through digital health campaigns and recommendations by healthcare providers has further boosted demand. Technological improvements, such as swallowable, gas-filled, or adjustable balloons, enhance patient comfort and broaden eligibility. Additionally, supportive insurance policies in some countries and the growth of medical tourism, particularly in regions offering affordable endoscopic procedures, are driving adoption. Regulatory approvals across new markets are expanding accessibility, and clinical evidence supporting balloon effectiveness for short-term weight loss adds to their credibility. Combined, these factors create a favorable environment for intragastric balloons market growth, especially in urban areas with rising lifestyle-related health issues.
In the United States, new designs in intragastric balloon systems are advancing non-surgical weight loss methods. A swallowable capsule with timed deflation and natural excretion introduces added convenience and safety. As intellectual property protections extend into the next decade, such innovations are setting the stage for broader use and clinical acceptance. For instance, in April 2025, ReShape Lifesciences received a Notice of Allowance from the USPTO for its intragastric balloon patent (application 18/241,151). The patent covers a swallowable capsule with a self-sealing fill valve and a degradable release valve, designed to deflate after three months and be naturally excreted. This system adds innovation to non-surgical weight loss solutions. The patent, once issued, offers protection through at least January 2031.
Growing Demand for Non-Surgical Weight Loss Alternatives
The intragastric balloons market outlook remains positive as widespread weight-related health issues are pushing interest in non-invasive treatments. Intragastric balloons are becoming a preferred option for those seeking medically supervised weight loss without surgery. These devices offer a reversible and less intensive approach, which appeals to both patients and clinicians aiming to avoid long recovery periods or permanent anatomical changes. The appeal also lies in the ability to integrate these procedures with lifestyle changes under medical guidance. As healthcare systems face mounting pressure to manage obesity-related conditions, there's a stronger emphasis on early intervention methods that are safe, effective, and cost-conscious. Awareness campaigns and broader acceptance within medical communities are further reinforcing adoption, especially in regions with limited access to advanced surgical care. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that in 2022, 2.5 Billion adults aged 18 and above were overweight, with 890 Million of them living with obesity.
Shift toward Minimally Invasive Procedures in Weight Management
Clinical preferences are steadily moving away from traditional open surgery in favor of less invasive methods. Procedures that require smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times are gaining favor among both practitioners and patients. Based on the intragastric balloons market forecast, this shift reflects a broader change in how weight-related interventions are approached, favoring safety, convenience, and reduced post-operative complications. Intragastric balloons fit neatly into this movement, offering a temporary, non-surgical option that aligns with patient demand for low-risk solutions. As more medical professionals adopt minimally invasive approaches, devices like these are seeing wider use in clinical settings that prioritize patient comfort and outpatient care models. A recent survey in Korea showed a shift from open surgery to minimally invasive techniques. The rate of open surgery dropped from 49.8% in 2014 to 27.6% in 2019.
Increased Validation of Non-Surgical Weight Loss Devices
Clinical studies are reinforcing confidence in non-surgical weight loss options. Intragastric balloons are drawing attention for their ability to deliver meaningful results alongside lifestyle programs. Recent trial data highlights sustained weight reduction over time with a favorable safety profile, supporting wider use in patients seeking alternatives to surgery. These findings are influencing physician decisions and could shape regulatory pathways for broader adoption. Interest continues to grow in treatments that offer measurable outcomes with minimal risk, especially when combined with structured lifestyle support. The shift toward less invasive methods is becoming more pronounced in clinical practice and patient preference alike. This reflects broader intragastric balloons market trends focused on safety, convenience, and long-term effectiveness. For example, in January 2025, Allurion Technologies reported topline results from its FDA pivotal AUDACITY trial on the Allurion Balloon. Over 550 participants joined, receiving two balloon cycles or lifestyle therapy. At 48 weeks, 58% of balloon recipients lost over 5% of body weight. Though the weight loss difference vs. controls (3.77%) missed the 3% superiority margin statistically, the margin was exceeded at 40 weeks. Serious adverse events were low at 3.1%.
Single intragastric balloon stood as the largest product in 2024. This type of balloon is gaining traction due to its simpler placement procedure, lower cost compared to dual or adjustable variants, and fewer associated complications. It's usually inserted endoscopically and removed after six months, offering a less invasive alternative to bariatric surgery for short-term weight loss. Patients and clinicians often prefer this option for its safety profile, faster recovery, and minimal maintenance. As obesity rates climb and demand grows for non-surgical weight loss methods, single-balloon systems are seeing wider adoption across clinics. Their convenience and growing clinical acceptance make them a leading contributor to market expansion.
Saline filling led the market in 2024. These balloons are filled with sterile saline solution after placement in the stomach, making them safer and more widely accepted. Saline allows easy visualization on imaging, which helps in monitoring and ensures prompt response to any deflation. They also come with a blue dye indicator; if leakage occurs, the dye colors the urine, acting as an early warning system. This safety feature, combined with affordability and a long track record of clinical use, makes saline-filled balloons more appealing than gas-filled options. Their predictable performance and broader physician preference are accelerating their adoption, especially in outpatient settings and emerging markets where cost and reliability are key factors.
Non-surgical led the market in 2024 as more patients seek weight loss solutions that avoid the risks, recovery time, and cost of surgery. Intragastric balloons offer a minimally invasive approach, typically placed and removed via endoscopy or swallowed in capsule form, making them accessible to a wider population, including those who are not candidates for bariatric surgery. This appeals to individuals looking for a temporary, reversible option with fewer complications. Clinics and providers are also expanding their offerings to include non-surgical procedures to meet rising demand. The growing interest in outpatient and office-based treatments further supports this trend. Convenience, safety, and faster return to daily activities are making the non-surgical segment a key growth driver in this market.
Obesity led the market in 2024. With global obesity rates climbing steadily, more individuals are seeking effective weight management options beyond diet and exercise. Intragastric balloons offer a non-permanent, non-surgical intervention that supports initial weight loss and motivates lifestyle change. They are especially useful for patients with moderate obesity who may not qualify for bariatric surgery but still need medical intervention. As obesity is linked to conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, healthcare providers are recommending earlier weight management strategies, including balloons. Rising awareness, insurance coverage improvements, and government health initiatives targeting obesity are also contributing to increased adoption, making the obesity segment a strong driver of market growth.
Hospitals and clinics led the market in 2024, owing to their access to trained gastroenterologists, advanced endoscopic equipment, and post-procedure care. These settings are preferred for balloon placement and removal because they offer higher safety standards, patient monitoring, and comprehensive weight management programs. As awareness grows, more patients are turning to hospitals and specialty clinics for non-surgical obesity treatments. The rise in outpatient services and day-care procedures has made balloon insertion more convenient and cost-effective in these environments. Additionally, hospitals often partner with wellness programs and dieticians, offering patients a full treatment path. Their credibility, infrastructure, and capacity to handle complications make hospitals and clinics the go-to centers, boosting the segment's impact on market expansion.
In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share. The region has one of the highest obesity rates globally, creating strong demand for effective, non-surgical weight-loss solutions. The presence of advanced healthcare infrastructure and well-established medical facilities enables widespread adoption of intragastric balloon procedures. Additionally, North America benefits from early regulatory approvals by agencies like the FDA, allowing quicker market access for innovative devices. High awareness levels among patients and healthcare professionals, along with strong marketing efforts by key manufacturers, also contribute to regional growth. Insurance coverage and reimbursement options in some areas further support patient access. Moreover, a growing preference for outpatient and minimally invasive procedures aligns well with balloon treatments. These combined factors continue to strengthen North America's leading position in the global intragastric balloons market.
United States Intragastric Balloons Market Analysis
The United States intragastric balloons market is primarily driven by the rising prevalence of obesity and related health complications. According to the new 2023 CDC population data, over one in three adults (35%) in 23 states are affected by obesity. Also, at least one in five adults (20%) in every U.S. state is currently living with obesity. In line with this, continual advances in balloon technology have significantly improved the safety and efficacy of procedures, attracting more patients to the market. The increasing awareness of non-surgical weight loss options is further driving market growth as individuals seek alternatives to traditional surgical procedures. Similarly, the growing preference for minimally invasive procedures, offering faster recovery times, is also fueling market demand. Furthermore, the heightened emphasis on preventive healthcare, motivating people to manage their weight actively, is fostering market expansion. Additionally, the rising trend of medical tourism is contributing to the market appeal as patients seek cost-effective solutions abroad. Moreover, favorable government initiatives and policies focused on obesity management are creating a supportive environment for market development, accelerating the adoption of intragastric balloon treatments.
Europe Intragastric Balloons Market Analysis
The market for intragastric balloons in Europe is experiencing growth due to the increasing prevalence of obesity and related chronic conditions. In accordance with this, the growing awareness of non-surgical weight loss options is encouraging patients to opt for minimally invasive treatments. Furthermore, ongoing advancements in intragastric balloon technology, which offers improved safety and effectiveness, are enhancing market appeal. The rise of medical tourism in Europe, where patients seek cost-effective solutions, is also contributing to market expansion. Additionally, supportive healthcare policies and reimbursement schemes across European countries are improving access to these treatments. The aging population in Europe, more prone to obesity, is another key market driver. The 2022 Health Survey for England found that individuals aged 55 to 74 were more likely to be overweight or obese compared to other age groups, with over 70% of people in these age ranges having excess weight. Additionally, preventive healthcare initiatives and a growing focus on wellness are fueling demand for weight management solutions. Apart from this, numerous collaborations between healthcare providers and research institutions are fostering innovation, further impacting market trends.
Asia Pacific Intragastric Balloons Market Analysis
The Asia Pacific market is predominantly driven by rapid urbanization and changing dietary habits, resulting in a larger patient base. In addition to this, growing awareness of minimally invasive procedures is prompting more individuals to opt for intragastric balloons as a non-surgical option. Furthermore, supportive government initiatives focusing on obesity management and preventive healthcare are fostering market growth. The region's increasing access to advanced medical technologies, which enhance the safety and effectiveness of treatments, is strengthening the market demand. Moreover, the expanding middle class, with higher disposable incomes, is fueling demand for weight loss treatments, providing further market potential. According to the People Research on India's Consumer Economy (PRICE), India's middle class is the fastest-growing segment, expanding at a rate of 6.3% annually, with an increase of 338 Million people from 1995 to 2021. It now constitutes 31% of the population and is projected to reach 38% by 2031 and 60% by 2047.
Latin America Intragastric Balloons Market Analysis
In Latin America, the market for intragastric balloons is expanding, predominantly driven by rising disposable income, which enables more individuals to afford weight loss treatments. Similarly, increasing awareness of minimally invasive procedures is encouraging individuals to opt for non-surgical options. The growing availability of advanced medical technologies, enhancing the safety and efficacy of treatments, is further fueling market expansion. Moreover, favorable government initiatives focused on addressing obesity through public health campaigns and improving healthcare access are making these treatments more accessible, strengthening the market's presence. As such, Novo Nordisk planned to invest USD 1.09 Billion in Brazil to expand production of Ozempic, Wegovy, and other injectable drugs. The investment will enhance manufacturing capacity at its Minas Gerais facility, with operations set to begin in 2028.
Middle East and Africa Intragastric Balloons Market Analysis
The market in the Middle East and Africa is significantly influenced by the growing awareness of obesity-related health risks and the need for effective weight loss solutions. The 2023 update from the World Obesity Federation's Global Observatory revealed that the UAE has a childhood obesity prevalence rate of 15% among girls (ranked 24th globally) and 18.5% among boys (ranked 21st globally). Furthermore, increasing access to modern medical treatments in the region, bolstered by investments in healthcare infrastructure, is accelerating market demand. Additionally, the region's growing health-conscious population, particularly among younger generations, is driving the need for minimally invasive weight loss options, thereby impelling the market. Moreover, various collaborative partnerships between local healthcare providers and global medical device companies are enhancing the availability and affordability of these treatments, providing an impetus to the market.
The intragastric balloon market is seeing steady activity with ongoing product launches, regulatory approvals, and research-driven innovation. Companies are introducing adjustable and non-invasive balloon systems to improve safety and patient comfort. Partnerships, mergers, and funding rounds are being used to expand product portfolios and global reach. Research institutions are contributing to the development of next-generation capsules with automated inflation features. While government initiatives mainly support obesity awareness and prevention, they indirectly benefit market growth. Among these, research and development, along with commercial partnerships, remain the most common practices, helping companies differentiate their offerings and meet regulatory requirements in new markets.