Billy Joel Gets Brain Shunt Implanted After Hydrocephalus Diagnosis
The singer said the procedure improved his memory and balance, but doctors told him to stop performing during recovery and physical therapy.
- Billy Joel revealed on The Billy Joel Channel on SiriusXM on Wednesday that he underwent brain shunt surgery to treat Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, with doctors advising him to refrain from live performances during recovery.
- Diagnosed with the neurological condition in 2025, Joel initially resisted the procedure but reconsidered after learning it could improve his balance and memory, experiencing symptoms like "this rocking motion" akin to being on a boat.
- Doctors warned Joel that playing loud rock music caused concussion-like effects, telling him, "It was causing damage to my brain nerves," prompting the performer to suspend all touring activity.
- Although he returned briefly in January to perform two songs with a tribute band, Joel remains uncertain about future concert dates, though the surgery "actually improved things" for his memory and balance.
- Currently focusing on physical therapy and stress management, Joel assures fans, "I just want people to know, don't worry about me," while staying active through occasional public appearances.
19 Articles
19 Articles
Billy Joel Says He Had Brain Surgery After His Diagnosis: ‘Don’t Worry About Me’
Billy Joel says he is doing better after brain surgery helped relieve some of the symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus, a disorder he was diagnosed with in 2025. On SiriusXM’s Billy Joel channel Wednesday, the singer talked about the surgery he agreed to after noticing “my balance was not good, I had this sensation of […]
Billy Joel Reveals He Had Brain Surgery to Place a Shunt Amid NPH Diagnosis
“Uptown Girl” singer Billy Joel, 77, is opening up about his health! A year ago, Joel revealed that he was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain disorder where there’s too much cerebral spinal fluid buildup. In an interview with SiriusXM, Billy recalled going to a doctor after noticing that his “balance was not good.” Following his diagnosis, doctors recommended that Joel undergo surgery to place a brain shunt. He shared, “…
Billy Joel reveals brain surgery, says concerts gave him concussion-like damage
Billy Joel disclosed Wednesday that he underwent brain surgery to treat normal pressure hydrocephalus, saying doctors told him his rock concerts were effectively giving him a concussion every time he performed.
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