Billy Joel Shares New Details About His Health, Revealing He Underwent a Brain Shunt Procedure Following NPH Diagnosis

“I underwent surgery to have a shunt implanted in my brain, and thankfully, it made a noticeable difference,” Joel revealed on his SiriusXM channel.

Billy Joel is giving fans an encouraging update about his health and opening up about the procedure that has helped him feel better.

More than a year after announcing his diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), the “Piano Man” singer discussed his recovery during an appearance on SiriusXM’s The Billy Joel Channel.

Joel explained that his health concerns initially became noticeable when he began experiencing problems with his balance. After he fell while performing at a concert, he sought medical attention and was eventually diagnosed with NPH. The condition causes an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain’s ventricles.

He initially underwent physical therapy, but his doctors eventually suggested that he consider having a shunt implanted to help manage the condition.

Joel admitted that he was hesitant when doctors first explained the procedure. He recalled asking what it would involve and learning that surgeons would need to create an opening in his skull to place a shunt in his brain. At first, the 77-year-old musician said he wanted to avoid the operation.

After researching the procedure, however, Joel learned that it could potentially help with both balance and memory. Concerned about maintaining his cognitive abilities, he ultimately agreed to undergo the surgery.

“I had a surgery and they implanted a shunt in my brain — and it actually improved things,” Joel said during the SiriusXM appearance.

The singer said he gradually noticed improvements in several areas, including his memory, balance and overall ability to function. However, his doctors also advised him to reduce his workload while he continues recovering.

According to Joel, the physical demands of his career may have contributed to the strain on his brain. He explained that repeatedly performing loud rock concerts could have effects similar to experiencing a concussion, potentially placing additional stress on his brain and nerves.

That realization led Joel to understand that stepping back from performing was necessary while he focused on getting better.

For now, Joel said he is following his doctors’ recommendations and continuing with physical therapy. He also emphasized that he regularly challenges himself to monitor how he is doing.

The musician acknowledged that fans may have become concerned after hearing that he has a brain disorder, but he reassured them that he remains determined to recover.

Joel first publicly revealed his NPH diagnosis in May 2025, when he announced the cancellation of several scheduled performances. At the time, he explained that the condition had been aggravated by performing and had affected his hearing, vision and balance.

A few months later, Joel discussed his health in a July 2025 interview with PEOPLE. He acknowledged that the diagnosis had been frightening but said he was doing his best to adapt and recover.

“I know a lot of people are worried about me and my health, but I’m okay,” he said at the time, explaining that NPH is a condition that remains difficult to fully understand, even with extensive research.

Joel added that while the experience had been scary, he wanted to reassure his supporters that they should not assume he was seriously or terminally ill.