Dr. Pimple Popper’s Sandra Lee Suffers Stroke While Filming

Dr. Pimple Popper star Sandra Lee suffered an ischemic stroke while filming in November. The 55-year-old dermatologist spoke exclusively to Filmogaz.com ahead of her new season.

Incident and early symptoms

Lee said she initially felt like she was having a hot flash. She became sweaty, restless and experienced shooting pains in one leg.

She also had trouble sleeping and difficulty walking down stairs. The following morning she noticed weakness on her left side.

Recognition and diagnosis

Lee described her hand slowly collapsing when she held it out. She also struggled to articulate words and feared she was having a stroke.

She went to the emergency room. An MRI confirmed an ischemic stroke.

What is an ischemic stroke?

An ischemic stroke happens when a blood vessel to the brain is blocked. This blockage reduces oxygen and causes brain tissue damage.

The American Stroke Association says about 87% of strokes are ischemic. Strokes rank as the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S., killing more than 165,000 people yearly.

Signs to watch for

• F: Face drooping
• A: Arm weakness
• S: Speech difficulty
• T: Time to call 911

Seek emergency care immediately if any symptoms appear. Act even if symptoms fade briefly.

Recovery and contributing factors

After her diagnosis, Lee paused filming and spent two months recovering. She later returned to production in January.

She reflected that high blood pressure and cholesterol were not under control. She also cited stress from patients and the show.

Lee said the episode prompted lifestyle changes. She called the experience a wake-up call and a blessing in disguise.

Professional context and upcoming season

Lee’s series follows her work removing cysts, blackheads and lipomas. Her early social media clips drew viewers who found the footage soothing.

She attended a VIP screening at TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on April 10, 2025. The new season premieres on Lifetime on April 20.

Lee says she is now “pretty much back to normal” and has resumed her duties.

Information in this report came from Lee’s interview with Filmogaz.com and the American Stroke Association. The story was reported from Detroit.