Anesthesia in Cosmetic Surgery
Did you know that different types of anesthesia can be used for your cosmetic surgery? While most procedures require some type of anesthesia, they do not all require general anesthesia. Here’s a quick guide to the types of anesthesia that you may need for a cosmetic surgery procedure.
Types of Anesthesia
The type of anesthesia affects more than your comfort level during surgery. It also carries into the recovery process. Plastic surgeons and general anesthesia do not always go hand-in-hand, and there are local anesthesia options depending on your procedure. Learn more about the types of anesthesia available.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is the type of anesthesia most commonly referenced in medical settings. It completely puts a patient under where they are no longer conscious. Surgeons often use a numbing agent such as lidocaine, so that patients will continue to have decreased sensation, and therefore less pain, even after surgery. Doctors reserve general anesthesia for intensive procedures where it is best that the patient be completely unconscious.
There is a lighter form of general anesthesia that keeps the patient conscious but in a relaxed, drowsy state. Sometimes called ‘twilight anesthesia,” intravenous sedation minimizes the time a patient is unconscious to avoid certain side effects and risks. A licensed anesthetist monitors the patient during the surgery. This form of anesthesia leads to quicker recovery and fewer side effects.
There are risks and side effects associated with inducing unconsciousness with general anesthesia. Side effects may include nausea, breathing problems, or changes in blood pressure. When you come off general anesthesia, your body feels the effects of delayed pain that was formerly numbed. In addition, general anesthesia suppresses the immune system, resulting in longer recovery times and occasionally colds and the flu. Side effects do not always present with every patient.
Local Anesthesia
Local anesthesia comes in the form of an injectable with lidocaine or another numbing agent. This type of anesthesia frequently takes the place of general anesthesia when only a small area needs numbing. It will only relieve pain in the injection site area. The patient remains awake for the entire procedure. If a patient is nervous about the treatment, doctors may prescribe oral medications to keep them calm for the duration of the procedure.
Patients can receive local anesthesia for many cosmetic surgeries, and enjoy shorter recovery times as a result. With general anesthesia, your body must recover from the anesthesia and heal the treated area at the same time. Local anesthesia allows the body to focus on healing just the treatment area instead of the entire body.
Contact Us to Learn More About Anesthesia and Plastic Surgery
At Southern Plastic & Reconstructive Surgical Institute, our team works to provide the best care from the first consultation to recovery. We offer a holistic approach using surgical and nonsurgical therapies as well as a variety of anesthesia options. We can advise you on the best form of anesthesia to keep you safe and comfortable during and after your surgery.
Contact us today to learn more about the services we provide.
