Rise in stomach surgery

More and more people are having cosmetic surgery to combat obesity, it has been revealed.

The Metro reported earlier this month that more men are developing breasts – or gynecomastia – as a result of being overweight, which is leading to an increase in male breast reduction surgery.

Now, new NHS figures show a 41 per cent increase in gastric bypass operations – from 2,448 in 2005-06 to 3,459 the following year, it has been reported.

The statistics have led to criticism of the government and its treatment of obesity in the UK.

Shadow health secretary Andrew Lansley said more needs to be done to encourage people to diet and exercise.

Echoing Mr Lansley’s sentiments, Liberal Democrat health spokesman Norman Lamb added: "Obesity surgery should only be used in very extreme cases and is not a quick-fix solution."

The government has announced a new £75 million drive will be launched later this year to encourage healthy eating and exercise.