Question:
Is 68 to old for WLS ?

   — Garner M. (posted on April 22, 2005)

April 21, 2005
I think that is up to the surgeon and your primary care if they feel you are physically able to handle the lifestyle change and are in good medical health. Since WLS is elective (meaning it's not an emergency or a trauma situation) a surgeon can set their own criteria for what they deem to be a 'good candidate.' There is a lady in my support group who is in her late 60s and had congestive heart failure who had surgery (RNY but I don't know if it was done lap or open) about four months ago. She's doing wonderful! Good luck to you!
   — Shayna T.

April 22, 2005
Hi, I don't have a direct answer to your question, but there is a forum on this site for folks over 50. http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/amosforums/over_50/ Best of luck to you!
   — sunneegirl

April 22, 2005
My Surgeon's Group has a limit at age 62. Probably for complications ,slower recovery, co mopbitities, etc. I think it depends on the surgeon and it maight take some searching upon the patient's part. I am in the over 50 catagory and will still be under the age to have the surgery.
   — ET

April 22, 2005
You may have better luck finding a surgeon willing to perform a lap-band at that age since it involves less surgical risk. I know that m own surgeon (lap-band) has performed it on people in their mid-60s. Best of luck to you. :)
   — K M.

April 22, 2005
My mom had her surgery when she was 67!
   — y0maria

April 23, 2005
I think it really depends on who your surgeon is, what your general state of health is, etc. My surgeon regularly does surgery on folks that are older - with excellent results. I know that he has quite a few sleeve gastrectomy post-ops who are in their late 60s and early 70s who are doing excellently. I would think which comorbidities you have, what your starting BMI, etc., are would be important factors to consider in the decision making process. Blessings, dina
   — Dina McBride

April 23, 2005
My doctor will take 16 years to 70 years I was 62 years when I had it done I did great!!!!!
   — Larry B.