Understanding Epilepsy Surgery: When Is It the Right Option?

Understanding Epilepsy Surgery: When Is It the Right Option?

04 Jul 2025 | 7:58 AM

Living with epilepsy can be a daily challenge—especially when medications don’t work. For many people with drug-resistant epilepsy, surgery becomes a life-changing solution. But when exactly is epilepsy surgery the right option? And how do you know if it’s safe or suitable for you or your loved one?

In this blog, we’ll help you understand when to consider epilepsy surgery, the types of procedures available, and why Dr. Komal Prasad, one of the best neurosurgeons in Bangalore, is a trusted name in epilepsy care.

What Is Epilepsy Surgery?

Epilepsy surgery is a procedure that aims to remove or disconnect the part of the brain that causes seizures. It is usually recommended when a person has refractory epilepsy, meaning they’ve tried two or more anti-epileptic medications without success.

Surgical intervention doesn't just improve seizure control—it can significantly enhance quality of life, restore independence, and reduce long-term reliance on medication.

When Should You Consider Epilepsy Surgery?

You or your loved one might be a candidate for epilepsy surgery if:

  • Seizures are not controlled even after trying multiple medications
  • The seizures originate from a single, identifiable area of the brain
  • That area can be safely removed or modified without harming vital functions
  • The seizures interfere with daily life, work, school, or safety
  • You experience frequent injuries, memory issues, or emotional stress due to epilepsy

Common Signs of Drug-Resistant Epilepsy

  • Seizures more than once a month despite medication
  • Temporary confusion or memory lapses after seizures
  • Sudden falls or injuries due to seizures
  • Emotional burnout or fear of having seizures in public
  • Limited social interaction or job loss due to epilepsy

If any of the above sound familiar, it’s time to consult a specialist in epilepsy surgery in Bangalore.

Types of Epilepsy Surgeries Offered by Dr. Komal Prasad

At Narayana Health City, Bangalore, Dr. Komal Prasad provides a wide range of surgical solutions tailored to each patient’s needs:

1. Temporal Lobectomy

Most effective for temporal lobe epilepsy. It involves removing the part of the temporal lobe where seizures begin.

2. Lesionectomy

Targets specific abnormal brain tissues (like tumors or scars) responsible for seizures.

3. Corpus Callosotomy

Cuts the bundle of nerves connecting the brain's two hemispheres to prevent seizures from spreading—ideal for children with severe epilepsy.

4. Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

A device is implanted under the skin of your chest to send electrical impulses to your brain through the vagus nerve. It helps reduce seizure frequency.

5. Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS)

A small device detects seizure activity in real-time and delivers electrical pulses to stop it—perfect for patients with multiple seizure foci.

Benefits of Epilepsy Surgery

  • Seizure Reduction or Elimination – Many patients become seizure-free or have a significant reduction in frequency and severity
  • Improved Mental Clarity – Less confusion, better memory, and emotional stability
  • Reduced Medication Dependency – You may be able to lower or stop some medications over time
  • Better Quality of Life – Return to work, education, and social life with confidence
  • Fewer Injuries – Reduced risk of falls, burns, or accidents due to seizures

Is Epilepsy Surgery Safe?

Yes, with modern techniques and an experienced surgeon like Dr. Komal Prasad, the risks are significantly minimized. Advanced tools such as intraoperative brain mapping, neuronavigation, and continuous EEG monitoring make these procedures safer than ever.

Of course, every surgery has risks, including infection, bleeding, or temporary neurological deficits—but these are rare and manageable when performed by a skilled surgical team.

Why Choose Dr. Komal Prasad for Epilepsy Surgery in Bangalore?

Dr. Komal Prasad is a Senior Consultant and Clinical Lead in Neurosurgery at Mazumdar Shaw Medical Centre, Narayana Health City, Bangalore. With over 20 years of surgical expertise, he is renowned for treating complex neurological disorders with compassion and precision.

  • Trained at SCTIMST, NIMHANS, and JIPMER
  • Expertise in both open and minimally invasive epilepsy surgeries
  • Access to advanced imaging, intraoperative monitoring, and post-surgical care
  • Multidisciplinary epilepsy team involving neurologists, neuropsychologists, and radiologists
  • Personalized care plans and transparent communication
  • Support with insurance, rehabilitation, and long-term follow-up

What to Expect During Consultation

If you decide to visit Dr. Komal, your evaluation will include:

  • Review of your seizure history and medications
  • Brain imaging: MRI, PET scan, or functional MRI
  • Long-term video EEG monitoring
  • Neuropsychological testing to assess memory, language, and attention
  • Multidisciplinary discussion to determine the best treatment path

Life After Epilepsy Surgery

Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery, but most patients can return to daily activities within a few weeks. Dr. Komal’s team will guide you through post-operative care, physiotherapy (if needed), medication adjustments, and emotional support.

Many patients report a new sense of freedom, reduced anxiety, and restored confidence.

Final Thoughts

Epilepsy surgery is not a last resort—it’s a smart decision for those who want a better quality of life. If you’re tired of living in fear of the next seizure or facing side effects from medications, it’s time to explore safer, long-term solutions.

As one of the best epilepsy surgeons in Bangalore, Dr. Komal Prasad is here to help you take control of your condition and reclaim your future.