Question: I am a 24 year old who has always aspired to become a pilot. I've decided to eventually get a private pilot's license so I can fly just for fun. However, a few months ago I was diagnosed with brain tumor which I had removed. There were no complications, I have never had any seizures, I'm not epileptic, etc. As far as I am concerned (and my doctors as well), I am now in perfect health.

With this in mind, is it still possible for me to obtain a PPL?

Answer: 
According to [AOPA](http://www.aopa.org/)'s medical guru on their discussion board (members only, or I would link to an example) it is possible to get a medical certificate following a tumor removal but only after a 5-year wait and a battery of tests.

But having said that, medical issues are very individual and the FAA's [AME guidance](http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/avs/offices/aam/ame/guide/app_process/exam_tech/item46/amd/cd/) suggests that one year is enough in some cases. In the end the only way to get a definite answer is to find a good AME who can review your case in detail and advise you. Note that standard advice is to schedule a consultation first, rather than go straight for the actual flight medical.

Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor or AME and I have no idea how brains work :-)
If you are in the United States and you have never been denied an FAA medical certificate or had your medical revoked and you have a driver's license, then you can fly as a sport pilot in light sport aircraft. There are some limitations compared to a PPL, the major ones being that you are limited to one passenger and daytime VFR operations.

If you decide to later move up to a PPL, then you will have to get a medical. There is some risk, though. If you attempt to get a medical and are denied, you will also lose your sport pilot priviliges.