No, most people do not wake up during surgery under general anesthesia. General anesthesia is meant to keep you unconscious and unaware, and waking up during it is rare. The sources say it happens in about 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 procedures, or about 5 out of 100,000 people in one large study. When it does happen, it is more likely at the start or end of anesthesia, or in higher-risk situations like emergency surgery, cesarean section, or when muscle relaxants are used.

If awareness happens, people may remember sounds, touch, pressure, or parts of the operation. Some people do not feel pain, but it can still be upsetting. Your anesthetist stays with you, watches your breathing and other vital signs, and uses monitors to help keep you asleep and pain free. You can lower risk by telling your anesthetist about past anesthesia problems, all medicines and supplements, and any alcohol or drug use. Verify the exact plan with your surgical or anesthesia team in case they want something different for you.