Age limit for banding

pati-o · June 7, 2005

has anyone heard of anyone over 70 having a band placed? My mom is going to be 72 in September. She has diabetes, high blood pressure and has had a hip replacement. Considering that she has all of that, she is otherwise very healthy. She is a very determined and headstrong person, but has struggled with weight her ENTIRE adult life. She's about 5'2" and about 245 lbs. She NEEDS to lose weight, but can't exercise because her knees hurt, which I'm sure is from her weight.

She has medicare and Principal Beech Street insurance.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated:)

giveyouthemoon · June 7, 2005

I would say that banding would be a lot safer for her than RNY because of the time it takes older folks to heal. I think even a band would be rough due to long healing times.

I think really a doctor would have to assess the situation given her circumstances and make that choice.

dreamweaver · June 8, 2005

Dr. Ortiz told me that his oldest patient is 78 years old. But, of course, he's in Mexico and so is a private pay situation. If your mother cannot get insurance coverage, I would have no qualms about recommending Dr. Ortiz. I was banded by him on May 25th and my recovery has been very, very smooth. Good luck!