Obesity surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is the general term for surgical procedures used to manage obesity. These surgical interventions are employed to promote weight loss and reduce obesity-related health issues. Obesity surgery can be an effective way to address serious health problems associated with obesity, such as diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, heart disease, and other metabolic syndromes.

Obesity surgery is typically considered when other weight loss methods such as diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes have failed or are not suitable. These surgical procedures promote weight loss by either reducing stomach capacity or altering intestinal absorption. Among the most common obesity surgery procedures are gastric bypass, gastric sleeve (or gastric banding), biliopancreatic diversion, and duodenal switch.In addition to promoting weight loss, obesity surgery can also improve or eliminate health problems associated with obesity. However, like any surgical intervention, obesity surgery carries risks.