We have responded to the challenge of surgery in the overweight patient by promoting it to an area of special interest. These individuals should not be deprived of good medical care although their obesity makes the physician's task more arduous and increases the risk of a poor result. With the use of intensive preoperative preparation, including prophylactic antibiotics and heparinization, a modified operative technique, and an active recovery regimen, a more sanguine view toward the surgical care of obese women can be taken.