When extreme obesity becomes life threatening, and all other treatments have been tried, surgery is a final option. Research indicates that for many people it is a successful and life-changing procedure. However, people who want this type of surgery, and meet the medical criteria for it, must have both their physical health and emotional well being carefully assessed before any decisions are made. They are also fully informed of the potential benefits, as well as the potential risks and pitfalls of the procedures.   

There are different types of procedures, but the most common uses a gastric band that makes the stomach smaller, and so reduces the amount that can be eaten at any one time. This is usually carried out as keyhole surgery, and the band can be surgically adjusted (to make the stomach smaller or larger) or removed if need be. Specialised dietary advice as part of medical follow up is required to help people adjust to and live with their new stomach size, and keep their diet nutritionally adequate. A consumer support group for people interested in weight loss surgery is www.wlsinfo.org.uk