General Anesthesia - is this safe for someone with sleep apnea?

Question

I am 66 yrs old and weigh 150 lbs. I have lost 140 lbs. in the last 2.5 years and have sagging skin all over. I would like to start with a facelift. I am healthy, except for severe sleep apnea. The operation is somewhere between 4-6 hours under general anesthesi. My question is will this be safe for me ? Thank you.

Philip S. Schoenfeld, MD, FACS · Answer

In the past, obstructive sleep apnea would be a huge red flag for elective cosmetic surgery.  BMI (body mass index) and overall health of the individual are now looked at more closely in terms of safety for elective cosmetic surgical procedures and general anesthesia.  You will need a medical clearance prior to any procedure, but if you are otherwise healthy then OSA is not a contraindication for general anesthesia or IV sedation.   You should also be operated on in a place (hospital or outpatient center) that has a board certified anesthesiologist available.   On another note, if you have lost 140 lbs, then you should retake your sleep study as your apnea may have decreased enough that you are no longer considered high risk.

Daniel A. Barker, MD · Answer

It should be safe but your surgeon and anesthesiologist can help you make that determination. You might need to be monitored for longer in the PACU. If you have a recent sleep study that can also help them to make an informed decision.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

General anesthesia is safer if you have sleep apnea because there will be a tube in your throat to keep the airway open.  This is definitely something to discuss with your surgeon and anesthesiologist

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your amazing weight loss! I would first recommend that you obtain a medical clearance especially if you have any concurrent cardiac, metabolic,  or respiratory issues. But generally speaking, anesthesia with appropriate monitoring by a CRNA or Anesthesiologist is very safe in an accredited OR.  You also need to have a responsible adult that you know or a nurse stay with you overnight after surgery

General Anesthesia - is this safe for someone with sleep apnea?

Answers (4)

Answer: Anesthesia Safety During Facelift

Answer: Anesthesia Safety During Facelift

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General Anesthesia - is this safe for someone with sleep apnea?

Answers (4)

Answer: Anesthesia Safety During Facelift

Answer: Anesthesia Safety During Facelift

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Everything you need to know about Deep Plane Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.