Is There A Right Age For Bariatric Surgery?

Age is just a number — even for people who want to pursue bariatric (weight loss) surgery. While most people who have the procedure are in their 40s and 50s, many are in their 60s and 70s. Some are even high school students.

We talked to Sandra Wischmeyer, DO, a bariatric surgeon, about the “ideal age” for bariatric surgery and other factors that influence the decision to undergo surgery. Dr. Wischmeyer is an independent physician who chooses to practice at Franciscan Health Bariatric Services in Michigan City, Ind.

Key Takeaways: Bariatric Surgery Age Requirements

• Bariatric surgery isn’t just for people in their 40s and 50s.
• Younger people who have the surgery will have more time to enjoy its benefits.
• The perfect time may be when you are ready to make lifestyle changes for permanent weight loss.

The Ideal Time For Weight Loss Surgery

Doctors do not point to one ideal age for weight-loss surgery. Instead, they look at how excess weight affects your health over time.

“People in their 20s, 30s and 40s will get more time out of the benefits of weight loss surgery,” said Dr. Wischmeyer. “When people undergo surgery in early adulthood, they’ll have the opportunity to live many healthy, active years.”

Many people treat surgery as a last resort and wait years before they consider it. This delay can allow health problems to worsen.

Timing depends on your lifestyle and readiness. Some people in their early 20s may find it harder to adjust, especially if their routines often include dining out or drinking with friends. After surgery, alcohol affects your body more quickly, so even one drink can cause intoxication. Most specialists recommend avoiding alcohol for at least six to 12 months after weight loss surgery.

Benefits Of Bariatric Surgery In Your 20s, 30s And 40s

Surgery in earlier adulthood can:

• Reduce the risk of serious obesity-related health conditions later in life, such as type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea
• Improve energy and mobility
• Create more years to enjoy an active lifestyle
• Prevent joint damage that can limit movement

Considering Bariatric Surgery For Patients Over 60

Research shows that people older than 65 who have weight-loss surgery often see results similar to younger patients. And the results are impressive. According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, more than 90 percent of bariatric patients maintain long-term weight loss of 50 percent or more of their excess body weight.

Dr. Wischmeyer performs surgery for many patients in their 50s and 60s, and these patients often do very well. Many feel motivated to stay active and keep up with family activities.

After surgery, many older adults:

• Experience less joint pain
• Reduce medications for conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure
• Improve mobility and independence

Exploring The Types Of Bariatric Surgery

If you have already researched bariatric surgery, you probably know that the two most popular procedures are gastric sleeve and gastric bypass.

Gastric sleeve surgery:

• Removes part of the stomach
• Reduces hunger hormones
• Limits how much food you can eat

Gastric bypass:

• Creates a small stomach pouch
• Changes how your body absorbs calories
• Can lead to greater metabolic changes

Both surgeries will help you feel full more quickly because your stomach becomes a small pouch. They also reduce levels of ghrelin — the hormone that drives appetite. This can help you feel less hungry and more satisfied with smaller meals.

With gastric sleeve, however, the surgeon does not reroute the intestines. This makes it a simpler operation than gastric bypass. Recovery time is shorter, and you can return to your usual activities sooner.

Your surgeon will help you choose the option that fits your health needs and goals.

Understanding The Risks And Benefits At Any Age

Bariatric surgery can lead to major health improvements at many stages of life. Studies show long-term benefits, including improvement in:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Overall quality of life

Joint health is also a consideration. If you wait too long to have bariatric surgery, joint damage or other conditions may limit your ability to stay active after surgery.

Many women who have bariatric surgery see improvements in their fertility and other aspects of their gynecologic health, Dr. Wischmeyer said.

“Obesity can make it more difficult to become pregnant,” she explained. “Usually, within a year of bariatric surgery, women who struggled with fertility get pregnant without any fertility treatments.”

Weight loss affects hormone levels and can improve conditions such as polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (formerly polycystic ovary syndrome).

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with bariatric surgery. Your care team will review those risks and help you decide what makes sense for your health.

Beyond Age: Key Requirements For Bariatric Surgery

Franciscan Health offers bariatric surgery services in Dyer, Indianapolis and Michigan City, Ind. View our locations.

If you come in for a consultation, the medical team will talk to you about your options and what to expect from the surgery and recovery.

They will also calculate your body mass index (BMI) to ensure you qualify for bariatric surgery. Calculate your BMI here. Most candidates have:

• A BMI of 40 or higher
• Or a BMI of 35 or higher with serious health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea or heart disease

The next step is a thorough evaluation, which includes meeting with a:

• Bariatric surgeon to discuss the procedure
• Dietitian to understand nutrition and lifestyle changes
• Mental health professional to ensure readiness for long-term success

The care team will also look at:

• Your medical history
• Your ability to follow a long-term nutrition plan
• Your readiness to stay active after surgery

Bariatric surgery can make significant weight loss possible. But it’s not a quick fix. Your care team will help you understand the habits needed for long-term success.

Take The Next Step

Your age is not the most important factor when it comes to bariatric surgery. What matters most is whether you are ready to commit to long-term change.

Want to learn more? Explore bariatric services at Franciscan Health or request an appointment today to get started.