I read this article in today's Denver Post - Surgical hope for obese teens - The Denver Post . What do you think?

I'm not sure if it would be appropriate on a 13 or 14 year old, but 16 or 17 year old? Probably. But only if they can show that they are serious about it. If we all think back to when we were teens, even as overweight or obese teens, were we responsible enough to do something like this? I'm sure some will be, but I think I'd bump up the pyschological evaluations to be sure.

I think under 21 is too young. They aren't mature enough to make life altering decisions just yet. Nor have they been alive long enough to try the safer alternatives adequately.

That being said, I am 45 and have no kids so my opinion really doesn't matter.

Here's my opinion....I am 21, and am 6 days post op. My father offered to pay for this surgery as a high school graduation gift. I was 18. I am soooo happy I didn't do it then! Looking back, I know I would not have done what I needed to do! I think 13 and 14 is way too young. 17, 18? Maybe...if they prove they are very serious and 100% committed to their new lifestyle! Even me being 21, I know it will be so difficult when my husband and I go eat with our friends. I only have 1 overweight friend, but even the skinny ones don't eat healthy all the time. I know I will do what I need to do. I can't imagine having the peer pressure of being a teenager again. It will be very difficult for any teenager having this surgery.