Not D.
I almost died! Don’t do it!!
After receiving an Allurion gastric balloon at a private clinic in Vancouver on June 5, 2025, I began experiencing severe and persistent vomiting the very same day. The symptoms worsened over time, ultimately leading to profound dehydration and dangerously low potassium levels (hypokalemia). Despite ongoing illness, I attempted to manage at home with medications prescribed by the clinic. However, my condition continued to deteriorate. On July 4, I was admitted to the hospital with a critically low potassium level of 2.5 mmol/L. I received intravenous fluids and potassium and was discharged later that day with a slight improvement to 2.9 mmol/L. Unfortunately, my symptoms persisted. On July 9, I was informed that my potassium had dropped further to a life-threatening level of 2.2 mmol/L. I was advised to go to the emergency department immediately, where I was re-admitted and remained hospitalized for a full week. I received continuous IV fluids, electrolyte replacement, and monitoring to prevent serious complications. Throughout that month, I remained in contact with the clinic that had placed the balloon. They continued to prescribe various medications in an effort to control the nausea and vomiting, but none were effective. I later learned the balloon had caused a gastric outlet obstruction, physically blocking food from entering my stomach. As a result, food and liquids remained trapped in my esophagus and were repeatedly vomited up. I lost 16.5 pounds in less than a month and that was due to starvation and dehydration. Once I was released from the hospital and had fluids back in my body, I was back up by 10 pounds. On July 13, 2025, the Allurion balloon was removed by a general surgeon using a gastroscopy (a scope passed through the mouth into the stomach). Although imaging like x-rays and CT scans had failed to clearly show the obstruction, the blockage was confirmed during the procedure. Almost immediately after removal, I experienced relief—I was finally able to eat and drink without vomiting, and my hydration and potassium levels began to stabilize. I also want to highlight that the placement experience at the clinic was unprofessional and concerning. The procedure was carried out by what appeared to be a husband-and-wife team. During the placement, the husband repeatedly raised his voice at the wife while I sat in a chair. They ran out of water mid-procedure and substituted carbonated water. After placement, the wife briefly connected my scale to the app and sent me out with no explanation of the program, no aftercare instructions, and no guidance on what to expect. The “pop-up” clinic setting felt chaotic, disorganized, and far below the standard of professional medical care. Since the removal, I’ve felt significantly better. I’ve been able to eat and drink normally, and my health has been steadily improving. I’ve also contacted the hospital where I was treated to obtain all related medical records, including any available documentation and images of the gastric obstruction, to support my case and ensure this adverse event is properly reported.
Response from AllurionFeb 9, 2026
Thank you for providing additional details about your experience. We take note of the points you raise regarding how you experienced the clinic setting and the overall process. Having full context is important when reviewing this type of feedback. If you wish to share further information or documentation so the situation can be assessed in more detail, you may do so by writing to [email protected] . Thank you for sharing your perspective. Best regards.