The most frequently offered are the gastric band or gastric bypass.Gastric band: Fat Loss (I said fat loss not weight loss) is not maximized with this procedure Bands need adjusting through a port, injecting saline for a good fit. Frequent band complications include slippage, leaks, erosion & intolerance - the band is a foreign object in the body. Adjustments are very necessary to avoid back up & esophageal stress. And as one would expect... there are knock off brands being produced for pennies - and you don't want one of those bands inserted. In many facilities - gastric banding is the only option available, at a very expensive cost financially & more importantly with your health.Gastric bypass: No question was resected as the ultimate form of bariatric surgery achieving the highest potential for fat loss. However, with great cost to wallet & health. It is a very invasive procedure, can lead to poor nutrient absorption, muscle wasting, mood disorders, gall stones, intestinal blockages & yes a potential for alcoholism. The stomach is a major manufacturer of neurotransmitters and is often referred to as our "belly brain".Due to ever evolving medical research - we now have weight loss procedures that match the success rate of gastric bypass, without the risk factors and complications.Gastric Sleeve & Gastric Plication are now available in certain facilities - rivaling the bypass for weight loss success, reducing the risks associated with previous procedures, however not all of these procedures are created equally, and, not many surgeons do these procedures. These procedures are well worth investigating, but surgeon experience is lacking in many facilities, and there are many variations. These procedures as well, depending on the facility can have serious complications, infections due to leakage along the staple line. It is well worth seeking out the staple free gastric sleeve - it provides the success of bypass - however the weight loss is fat loss, not sacrificed muscle, preserves the many mystical functions of the stomach and is the one and only anti leak procedure.Researching those who have had the procedure - yes the complications can go over 20%. However, by doing your research - you will see there are affordable procedures that can truly save your life with sustainable fat loss & complication free. Your life, health & happiness are worth it! Don't just look at financial cost or whats in your backyard - look for the very best procedure.