One to 5 years after gastric restrictive surgery and subsequent weight loss, 79 bariatric surgery patients were compared with a similar group of 54 non-operated patients. The operated group had a significantly higher proportion of employment, more working hours, and a higher income. They were also more active in different physical and social activities and had a better sexual life. They required less medical care, had fewer days of sick leave or sick pension, and gave a much higher score in assessment of their general health. The results indicate that obesity surgery is highly cost-effective.