Removing half of the brain, also known as a hemispherectomy, does not necessarily affect memory and personality because the brain has the ability to reorganize and compensate for the missing hemisphere. This is known as neuroplasticity, where the remaining hemisphere can take on the functions of the removed one. Additionally, memories and personality traits are not solely located in one hemisphere, but rather distributed throughout the brain.
Individuals who have undergone a hemispherectomy may still have some degree of impairment, but they are able to function normally due to the brain's ability to adapt and rewire itself. The remaining hemisphere takes on the functions of the removed one, allowing the individual to continue with their daily activities.
While there may be some short-term effects, such as temporary memory loss or changes in personality, there are typically no long-term effects on memory and personality after a hemispherectomy. As mentioned before, the brain is able to compensate for the missing hemisphere and maintain normal functioning.
In some cases, there may be minor changes in memory or personality following a hemispherectomy, but these changes are often temporary and can be managed with rehabilitation and therapy. The remaining hemisphere may need some time to adjust and take on the functions of the removed one, but the individual's core memory and personality traits usually remain intact.
The effects of a hemispherectomy may vary depending on the age of the individual. Younger children tend to have a better chance of full recovery and may experience less long-term effects due to their brains' higher level of plasticity. However, adults who undergo a hemispherectomy may have a longer recovery time and may experience more significant changes in memory and personality. Overall, the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize helps individuals of all ages to function normally after a hemispherectomy.