Singer-songwriter Billy Joel, 77, has revealed he successfully underwent brain surgery to treat normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a rare condition he was diagnosed with last year. Joel detailed the procedure, which involved implanting a shunt in his brain, on his SiriusXM show, The Billy Joel Channel.
Normal pressure hydrocephalus, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, occurs when excessive cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain's cavities. Joel first noticed symptoms when he experienced unsteadiness, describing it as feeling like being "on a boat, like this rocking motion" and not being "steady on my feet."
Following the surgery, Joel reported improvements in his memory, balance, and overall ability to function. He reassured his fans, stating, "I just want people to know, don’t worry about me. I’m not going anywhere. I’m here. I’m still here."
Last May, Joel canceled all scheduled concerts after his diagnosis. At the time, a statement on his Instagram account explained that his NPH had been exacerbated by recent performances, leading to issues with hearing, vision, and balance. Medical professionals advised him to temporarily stop performing, warning that concerts could be causing "something like a concussion every time I did a show" and potentially leading to a loss of brain cells. He is currently undergoing physical therapy and following medical advice to prioritize his health.
Joel has two daughters, Della, 11, and Remy, 8, with his wife Alexis Roderick. He also has a daughter, Alexa, 40, from his previous marriage to Christie Brinkley.