Seizures & liposuction: Can anesthesia bring on an episode?

Question

I've had 2 seizures my entire life, I am not 28 y.o. 1 happened when I was in 4th grade and the other in 2009. I want to get liposuction on the body but I don't know if the anesthesia can cause you to have a seizure during or after. When I was evaluated by a neurologist my eeg was normal. They did not want to put me on medicine because I didn't need it.Both seizures happened randomly. I do not plan on getting an epidural I will just be put to sleep. I don't have a neurologist as everything was nml.

Scott Reis, MD · Answer

This is a fantastic question! Overall, inhaled (gaseous) and IV anesthetic agents have anticonvulsant properties and actually raise the seizure threshold by causing generalized central nervous system (brain) activity depression. Therefore, in general, anesthesia should not cause seizure activity in patients prone to this. However, there are rare instances where anesthetics can cause seizures - I actually experienced this myself during a minor surgical procedure I underwent years ago. It is therefore incredibly important to discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon as well as an anesthesiologist to ensure that any elective procedures you decide to undergo will be first and foremost safe.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I would get clearance from a neurologist to determine if there is anything else that needs to be done before considering elective surgery.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Undecided_doll,anesthesia probably won't cause seizure but you should share your concerns with your plastic surgeon and anesthesiologist. You might need to provide clearance from your neurologist. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It is unlikely anesthesia will bring on seizures, but make sure to share your history with your surgeon. For best results with liposuction, I recommend a hi definition procedure like VASER liposuction. I use VASER HI DEF with ThermRF and fat grafting to get the most fat removal, skin tightening, contour and definition. This combination will give you the most toned result. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a hi definition physique expert. Best, Dr. Emer

R. Laurence Berkowitz, MD · Answer

While the stress of surgery could possibly trigger seizure activity, the medications you would be receiving for a general anesthetic (likely midazolam and propofal) will sedate the central nervous system to reduce this risk.  Ask to speak with the anesthesiologist before the day of surgery.

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question, Undecided_doll_.
When you come in for a plastic surgery consultation, you will not only be evaluated by a reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon, but also by a licensed anesthesiologist. Be sure to tell him your seizure history so that he’s aware of your tendencies. You won’t be allowed to get liposuction if he deems it risky to do so.
But like you said, it appears that your seizure episodes were isolated incidents. I personally think that it won’t pose any problems, but the best thing to do is to get a full medical check-up from your licensed physician and get surgery clearance before consulting with a plastic surgeon. 
Good luck!

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

It is unlikely you will have a seizure due to you Anastasia.
If anything anesthetics can lower the seizure threshold.
Please tell your doctor and it was the zoologist your for medical background.
If the anesthesiologist.  If you are at risk he or she will give you medications to lower your seizure threshold.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom M.D.

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

I believe you have nothing to worry about.  Nevertheless consult with your family doctor and get his opinion.    You will be fine I believe.    My Best,   Dr Commons

Seizures & liposuction: Can anesthesia bring on an episode?

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