Question:
Is there anyone out there 66+ who have had Rny?

I do not think it is fair to put an age limit if you are in good health otherwise or your family doctors approves of the surgery.. I realize I have a tendency towards blood clots butI have a greenfield filter installed and have had other surgeries by being put on heperin right after. I've read of several who have had the surgery on this list and in our local support group who have blood clot problems. I just turned 66 and am very disappointed no doctor in Mich. have I found who will do it. Some claim its because of Medicare and others say my age. I do not feel old and am active as can be. Not long ago I was swimming 35 laps across an 80 foot pool.I do my own housework and garden even though my back and legs hurt. I need to lose this weight and can't do it on my own. I need this surgery. I had gall bladder surgery just a couple of years ago with no problems .    — Carol H. (posted on December 22, 2002)

December 23, 2002
Carol, sorry to hear you are having difficulty finding a surgeon. Maybe someone in the Chicago area might do it. Best of luck to you. Carrie
   — Carrie R.

December 23, 2002
My mother was 64 when she had lap RNY...she is now 67...and has lost 135 lbs wears a size 4 is totally loving life. She walks 3 to 5 miles a day. Recently on a trip to Hawaii she hiked 3 miles up a mountain to see a "secret" waterfall, went horse back riding for the FIRST time, and learned to snorkel for the first time in her life. What a glorious gift she gave herself. Find a way to do it..EVERYONE deserves the peace that WLS gives a morbidly obese person.
   — lee J.

December 23, 2002
Your surgeon's malpractice insurance may have certain age requirements for this type of surgery. For example, my surgeon only can operate on ages 18-65 and that's because of his insurance. I'd check with other surgeons; don't give up!!
   — Iris B.

December 23, 2002
My surgeon dr schauers oldest patient was around 70. Pittsburgh not that far away. Good luck.
   — bob-haller

December 28, 2002
There is a group for people over 50. Go to [email protected]. The moderator of the group is 68, I believe. I was 57 when I had my surgery with an easy surgery, no complications and very quick recovery. Don't let age alone stop you.
   — grammie5

August 3, 2003
As a bariatric surgeon in california - there are no age limits. We have operated on ages ranging from 14-74
   — Ramsey D.