Obesity is a chronic progressive disease that decreases longevity and has associated co-morbidities. Diet, lifestyle and behavioural modifications are essential components in the armamentarium for treating obesity. These alone are, however, not always effective in the long term. Bariatric and metabolic surgery (BMS) safely results in maintained weight loss and amelioration of co-morbidities. This article aims to provide an overview of different BMS procedures, mechanisms of action, outcomes and potential complications.