Bariatric or weight loss surgery refers to a number of different procedures that can be performed to treat obesity. Procedures fall into three main types: Malabsorptive - these procedures involve bypassing a section of the small intestine thus reducing the amount of food absorbed into the body. Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass involves bypassing a section of the intestine so that less food is absorbed. Restrictive - these procedures involve reducing the size of the stomach, usually by creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach which limits the amount of food that can be eaten. Laparoscopic Gastric Banding is a surgical treatment for obesity that involves placing an inflatable cuff around the upper stomach. The cuff can be further inflated or deflated to adjust the volume of food that can be consumed. Malabsorptive/Restrictive Combination - these procedures combine both techniques e.g. gastric bypass surgery in which a small stomach pouch is formed and its outlet connected to part of the small intestine.

This service offers support to people who are overweight or obese to reach and maintain a healthy weight. Weight loss approaches may involve diet and lifestyle changes or weight loss medications, or both may be offered.