Companies are in the process of testing a device that will replace lung volume reduction surgery for patients with emphysema and repair heart valves by going through the skin.

FORBES: Knifeless Surgery's Cutting-Edge Techniques

Obesity causes impairments in lung function, such as a reduction in lung volume and an increase in the amount of oxygen used during breathing, but these on its own would not be enough to induce the condition.

BBC: NEWS | Health | Overweight 'higher asthma risk'