I have temporal lobe epilepsy. I had surgery on the left temporal lobe in Philadelphia in April 1987 and have been seizure-free ever since. I have been totally off medicine since 1992.

I have temporal lobe epilepsy, have had since I was 13 (53 years ago). After approximately 18 years of trying all sorts of medications and treatments to control intractable daily / weekly temporal lobe seizures and approximately monthly grand mal seizures, I made the decision for a 3 week work up ( in 1988), which was followed with a left temporal lobectomy. All in all, the surgery was a success. I am still taking meds, and have periodic auras but have been able to live without the same level of concerns I had before the surgery and after I learned to live not expecting to have a seizure at any time. Even though that is something none of us can ever really get rid of.

I hope this helps. I lived 18 years with intractable seizures and 35 years in a managed state.

I recommend considering the surgery, but review the hospital and Epilepsy Clinic.

And surgery scares the crap out of me

I have Temporal Lobe Epilepsy and I was suggested to do a surgery!! I am afraid to do it because it only helps 30% of people and you loose 1/8 of your brain! I am waiting for a successful medicine to come up that will stop epilepsy 100%!

Please research the doctors and hospitals. I have TLE, and the surgery was unsuccessful, and basically increased my episodes. I have a google review online. It's not on the website for MUSC, but google the review. I can explain EVERTHING that happened via mail or by phone, which you should know about. I feel as though I know more than the doctors do, because they DO NOT give this disorder the attention and aggressive care.