Weight-Loss Surgery Safe for People 60 and Older | The Lighter Side with Dr. O

Age should not be a barrier to the benefits of weight-loss surgery. Suppose you are concerned about being “too old” for bariatric surgery or are afraid of risks and complications. In that case, we have good news: Studies show that weight loss surgery is not only safe for patients in their 50s or older, but it also enhances diabetes control, lowers the risk for heart disease, and helps to achieve successful weight loss.
In this episode, our special guest Robert Shipley, who was the 4th Member of his family to undergo Weight Loss Surgery at OCC shares his journey and explains how he lost 140 pounds in 8 months. "My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner" he says.
With over 20 years of experience and 24,000 successful surgeries completed, Obesity Control Center is a worldwide leader in safe and innovative bariatric surgery that helps patients get their lives back.⁠
Don't miss this incredible interview and learn more about the benefits of surgery.
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[@danasharp5605]

Spot on! I’m 62 and having gastric sleeve in June. I needed to hear this. I was ready to concede to being a fat old person, stay home, stream and read, and sleep. But something finally clicked inside me and I realized I was afraid to try one more thing, a big thing, and fail. But as a senior gal, I’ve been through some stuff. I’m a warrior! I’m not giving up!

[@vickit3887]

I am also 62 and in the process of getting approved for the gastric sleeve. Hopefully, surgery will be in June or early July. I am nervous about it.

[@vt7814]

You said it right. The world gets smaller. I don't go out. I stopped traveling. My husband called me once antisocial. No I am not, just embarrassed! I am preparing for a bariatric surgery at 56. Very excited. Thanks for opened my eyes. That's exactly how I feel.

[@georgerbell4511]

Terrific interview. I had my Gastric By-pass in 2010 at 74 yrs of age. With the skill of Surgeon and the personal care of the nursing staff in Detroit, Mich., it was as you say “a piece of cake”. I literally loved food and was eating my way to the graveyard. It was arranged by the Ontario Health System for the procedure to take place in the USA because it was not yet being performed in Ontario. It was the best decision I’ve ever made and my whole life changed in a zillion ways. It was arranged and completely paid for by our Provincial Health Care (namely by other citizens who support a great health programme that covers everyone). Initially I lost 128 lbs and it’s never coming back. If you have a weight problem and even a diabetes 2 problem, you never regret making the first step toward extending your life in exciting ways. The surgeon looked me in the eye and with a smile said,”I given you the start, the rest is up to you”.

[@taneishabeylifestyle]

Awesome testimony 🙌🏾

[@robynaronna9381]

You confirmed the reason why I’m going to do my surgery. I’m 60 and was scarred spotless. However you have really made it easier for me to make the final decision. Thank you 🎉

[@gwendolynhealy2354]

Omg. Mr Shipley did a fantastic interview. Dr Ortiz I'm almost to 200, I had my surgery Jy 7th. I don't regret it for a second. Mr. Shipley should write a book about their family experience. I think it would be inspiring, because it a view from the whole family perspective. Like Mr Shipley said I don't hide how I'm losing weight, I proudly say I had gastric sleeve. It's about me, I don't care what anyone else thinks about it. Don't let anyone shame you from fixing your health. Yesterday I had my annual DOT physical, the doctor was so impressed at my results, she said she's looking forward to seeing me next year. Ok enough on and on. Again thank you Mr Shipley for your story and thank you to my favorite surgeon in the world for giving me my health to get ready for my 60s and beyond. G.

[@ObesityControlCenter]

Thank you for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful comment! The Shipley's story is inspiring to so many, a book wouldn't be a bad idea 😉 We're so happy to hear that the results from your annual physical went well. 💙 Keep up all the hard work💪

[@grigql]

My neighbor has hypertension and is borderline diabetic. She has tried to lose weight, but it has been tough for her. Her legs hurt when she walks, etc. She gets winded when she walks and stairs are nearly impossible for her, but she lives on the 2nd floor, it’s hard to see her like this. She’s 66 and is fearful of having surgery this late in the game, I’ll share this video with her

[@francesjuntunen4234]

I’m 71 and schedule for gastric bypass in March 2023! I’m both happy and terrified at the same time! However I’m more terrified to remain like this!! Cancer didn’t take me so why should fat?

[@rainynights8879]

How did your surgery go? I hope you're well and happy

[@francesjuntunen4234]

@@rainynights8879 it went ok! I had several complications and am still trying to get back to a “normal” life! This has been quite a journey! Thanks for asking!💖

[@rainynights8879]

@@francesjuntunen4234 I'm glad you're on your way to better health. I'm seriously considering getting the sleeve. I'm 63 and was thinking I'm too old to get it now. I'm also scared, but I don't want to stay overweight any longer. Thank you for responding💜

[@rubymarty1322]

Did you do it? If so, how are you doing?

[@kindnessheals]

I had gastric bypass at 68. Glad I did. It is now 4.5 years post-surgery. But I am wondering if his very fast recovery was because maybe he had sleeve rather than gastric bypass??? I had surgery in TX. My bariatric surgeon was very experienced. However, in contrast to the man interviewed, I was in the hospital two nights. I had pain meds first day and felt fine. They withdrew the pain meds second day and was given no pain meds after that. I had significant pain for nine days following surgery. Hopefully most people get some kind of pain meds. I think Texas was scared everyone would get hooked on pain meds at the time. But at any rate, I am still glad I had the surgery. I do have some kind of strange complication that caused me to lose more weight than expected, but I consider that a plus. However, I now have acid reflux (which I did not have pre-surgery) and now have frequent vomiting. I have had multiple endoscopies. They saw a small hiatal hernia is all. Someone speculated that the vegas nerve might have been nicked during the gastric bypass. So although I deal with these digestive issues now, I am so thankful to not be overweight any more, and am glad I had the surgery.

[@MarieHolliday]

you are correct you break the bad habits before the surgery and I had a great medical team had my surgery april 8 2024

[@johnniesal7018]

Thanks! Your statement about that if this were cancer you were dealing with there would be no question…you would get the surgery. I’m 69 years old and trying to work it out in my mind. Thanks again!

[@dthamilton79]

He nailed it. I can relate to everything he’s said. I should have done it sooner.

[@ObesityControlCenter]

That's a very common thing we hear from our patients! We wish you the best on your journey and are always here if you have any questions!

[@cookiearaya]

What an awesome speaker. I mean, I was floored by your candid story and how you got to where you are now. How even your immediate relatives have benefited from this procedure. Thank you for sharing your ups and downs so openly. Good bless.

[@ObesityControlCenter]

The Shipleys are such an inspiring family🙌 Thank you for taking the time to watch💙

[@somoluv7219]

Needed to Hear this.. omw right now through this journey doing test I'm 60 as well (Thank You)

[@spoiledsushi7400]

This is an exceptional narrative! Thank you!

[@MarieHolliday]

its a life style change

[@lynnemcnab76]

I’m 75, I had a band over ten years ago it hasn’t really worked, I’m now trying to get courage up to remove it and it’s been suggested I get the sleeve done at the same time, is it advisable at all does any one know. I need to get the weight down I have AF, and sleep apnea high cholesterol etc, I want to see my 16 month granddaughter grow if I can.

[@wendyotremba2982]

Thank you! I have no doubts now

[@MarieHolliday]

the protein shakes took away my cravings for junk food

[@vernalee8]

Thanks for sharing

[@deborhasmith6285]

I'm trying to get It but the doctor is giving me a hard time about my age and Medicare. I have insurance from my job. I have been approved by my insurance to see this doctor. I feel discriminate by my age by this doctor. I called my insurance company and they told me that my insurance is my primary..

[@bibiijaz6238]

I’m kinda tired of hearing about precipitous weight loss. It just doesn’t happen in older female patients. These testimonials just set older patients up for worry and depression when they don’t lose as fast.