It should be noted that weight loss surgery is not a magic formula. It is a viable alternative for the patient who is morbidly obese, and who has tried all other alternatives.
There is currently a technique available that may appeal to a wider range of the population, and that is lap belt surgery.
In this procedure, a silastic band (which is inflatable) is placed around the stomach, reducing its capacity by two-thirds.
This band is inflated by injection of sterile saline solution and can be adjusted by the physician.
While this is not a permanent procedure, it does require that the patient make permanent changes in their dietary habits and lifestyle, in order for the weight loss to be sustained.