My sister has MS and has been wanting breast implants for years. Are there risks associated with the anesthesia/surgery?

I have had women that have MS and implant surgery. I do discuss the recovery from anesthesia, refrain from succinylcholine , and require clearance from a primary care provider. It is important to note if any previous anesthesia was done and how that person recovered. 

It sounds like your sister is doing quite well with a very difficult disease. It seems like she would not be at a significantly increased risk with anesthesia. A situation like this should addressed with the plastic surgeon, anesthesiologist, and treating neurologist in concert.

If a person has a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis but otherwise is not debilitated and leads an active lifestyle there is no reason why she can not have breast implants.   Many patient with MS undergo surgery with general anesthesia every day without a problem.  As long as she is medically cleared and her anesthesiologist is aware and takes the proper precautions then this shouldn't be any different. 

Hi HimynameYour sister will be at greater risk than a 'normal, healthy' patient. However, that does not mean that she cannot have her procedure if her neurologist and surgeon believe that it is safe. In my practice, I get my complex patients to discuss things with myself and my anaesthetist (anaesthesiologist for North Americans), and we work out a plan that involves their other specialists.Complex medical problems do not always mean that patients need to avoid medical risks. It just means that all of their treating doctors need to work out a safe plan for the patient.Hope things go well for her - if it is important to her, she should talk to a local Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to work out the best plan.Dr Gavin Sandercoe

Your sister will need  to be evaluated by her neurologist first to see if she is able to undergo a surgical procedure.  Best of luck.

 The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in and of itself is not an absolute contraindication to elective breast surgery. However, decisions and management should be made very carefully after consultation with your sister's neurologist. Much will depend on the severity of her condition (how well controlled it is)  and what medications she is utilizing. Careful selection of her plastic surgeon, anesthesiologist, and surgery facility will be key. Again, careful communication  between her neurologist and selected  plastic surgeon will be very important.  Best wishes to your sister for a safe/successful outcome.