• Body mass index (BMI) > 40.
  
• BMI between 35 and 40 and presence of such comorbid conditions as severe obstructive sleep apnea, pickwickian syndrome, obesity-related cardiomyopathy, degenerative joint disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.
  
• Failed dietary attempts at weight loss.

Absolute

• Active substance abuse.
  
• Severe psychiatric disorders.
  
• Pregnancy.
  
• Untreated esophagitis.

Relative

• BMI < 35.
  
• Age younger than 18 years.
  
• Age older than 60 years.
  
• Desire to become pregnant within 2 years.