I am 72 and all the surgeons I have contacted around here won't operate because of my age. I live in the San Francisco Bay area. Does anyone have suggestions, experiences to share?

My surgeon will not do anyone over 60 so I know what you mean. I think it is an insurance thing.

May I ask why you want to have this surgery? I don't mean to be critical or mean, just curious.

Mimi

Hi

Don't have a good suggestion but to keep asking other surgeons

In my case, I declined surgery after completing the pre-op testing and dieting at age 75. Surgeon said I could continue later if I changed my mind

Roy

Not sure if this is something you would consider at all, but I got my band in Mexico. I'm not sure if they have age restrictions, but it might be worth a try. Here's a link to their site:

Lap Band Surgery in Mexico - Dr. Ariel Ortiz at the Obesity Control Center

The only issue to consider is finding a doc in your area for fills and such. You could also go back to Mexico if needed. I found this thread because I'm trying to find a doc in SF for my sister who was banded with me. I live in NYC and have a great doc here. But she has had to go back to Mexico for all fills, and at this point I am worried that she needs a little unfill, but she doesn't feel like making the trip down there for a small adjustment.

Good luck!

I am 72 and all the surgeons I have contacted around here won't operate because of my age. I live in the San Francisco Bay area. Does anyone have suggestions, experiences to share?

I am 73 years and was banded in Oct 2011. No problems as of yet

I am glad to hear that you got your band. You must have really wanted it to work all this time trying to get it.

Good Luck!!

Please don't listen to that guy and go to Mexico! Screeeww that!

Do not go to mexico

I was 70 when I got my first band. Because of slippage, I was recently re-banded at 74. Medicare paid.

I am 70 and was banded back in June of 2010. My experience has been wonderful up until this past June. I lost a total of 98 lbs. However in June I got stuck and against my wishes the doctor emptied my band. When I went back for my refill I got 6 1/2cc, but no restriction. I went in again and I am now at 9cc in an 11cc band. Still no restriction. The doc will not put any more in. They are talking band replacememt or the sleeve. I'm not sure I want to undergo two more surgeries to make that happen. I have gained about 15 lbs. so I am going to try to do everything in my power to keep it where it is. Although I don't have restriction, I am not hungry and I have learned to eat smaller portions. I have increased my activities and I'm praying to God to give me the strength to at least stay where I am. I intend to live with the band in place inless some other complications arrise that require its removal. What I need now is plenty of encouragement.