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

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.

This is a great question!
Sleep apnea can increase the risks associated with anesthesia because it affects breathing during and after surgery. That said, general anesthesia can still be performed safely in patients with sleep apnea if certain precautions are taken. Your anesthesiologist will carefully review your medical history, may adjust medications, and will monitor your breathing closely during and after the procedure. Sometimes, a CPAP machine is used immediately before and after surgery to maintain airway support. It’s also helpful to have surgery at a facility experienced in managing patients with sleep apnea and other medical conditions. Preoperative evaluation and careful planning are key to minimizing risks. Because your facelift is expected to take 4–6 hours, discussing your sleep apnea management and anesthesia options in detail with both your surgeon and anesthesiologist is essential to ensure the safest outcome.

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.

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

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