Hey everyone, just wanted some of everyone's opinion. What would you consider to young for weightloss surgery? Is 16 to young or should a parent wait for there child to turn 18 to consider surgery as an option? I'm asking for a friend who's child has been struggling with obesity.

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From a clinical point of view, your friend must consult with paediatric specialists because there is no blanket answer without the medical and psychological condition of the child being extensively factored into the decision. Pediatric cases involving weight loss surgery are very complex and I don't think strangers of the internets should be sources of advice for this. This is my own opinion as a clinician. Others may have different opinions.

I appreciate your response PrayingForWrightLoss. That makes a lot of sense. My friend was just asking in general conversation if it was possible so I thought I would post it to gain others opinion. But I totally understand were you are coming from. Thanks again.

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I know WLS is routinely done on teens in other countries (UAE, Mexico, India). The US is more complicated.

My daughter is 16 and she will be having surgery hopefully in November. I wish at 16 i could have changed my life in this way. Her doctors are on board. I talked to a psychiatrist he said why not as long as it is what she wants,and we help her after to get acquainted with the new her. It will take time for her to know that new person. She struggled already her whole life with obesity, she doesn't know herself Any other way. He said it might be hard at first for her to see herself thin. She is so excited I have seen a huge mood shift. She was I it feels like a light she can see. That she will not always be fat. She's happy.