The gastric balloon may be a suitable option for those with body mass index (BMI) of 27 to 35 or more, but it is particularly useful for patients who are considered too overweight to undergo vital surgery. (For a body mass index much higher than 35, bariatric surgery is more effective, but weight loss is necessary to reduce risks of more invasive surgery that requires the use of general anesthesia.) Losing weight is also effective in managing medical conditions associated with obesity, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Your doctor will make a decision which procedure is most appropriate for you, depending on your weight, your general health, any other medical conditions you have, and your ultimate goal for your health/weight.