What are the benefits of getting a surgical procedure under local anesthesia? Answering that question is an important part of planning your surgical procedure. Depending on the type and extent of the surgery, we may offer a choice between general and local anesthesia, so it is a good idea to get informed about the pros and cons of each option.
Which Plastic Surgery Procedures Support the Use of Local Anesthesia?
Dr. Matthew H. Steele, double-board-certified-plastic surgeon, performs several procedures using local anesthesia, including blepharoplasty, liposuction, skin cancer defect repair, and gynecomastia correction. For these procedures, Dr. Steele will numb the treatment area while you remain awake and alert.
We should note that local anesthesia is not beneficial or recommended for every patient and every surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Steele will review your options and help you determine whether local anesthesia is the right choice for you.
Why Should I Choose Local Anesthesia?
General anesthesia comes with a list of side effects and risks, and it is important to be aware of those before your procedure. Local anesthesia, by contrast, only numbs the treatment area, so you stay awake, alert, and can breathe on your own.
After surgery, you can also expect the benefits of a quicker recovery with local anesthesia. Your body does not have to process a strong general anesthetic, so you are less likely to experience nausea and grogginess. This reduced downtime can be important if you have family and work responsibilities.
What Can I Expect From My Surgical Experience Under Local Anesthesia?
You might be worried about what you will see and experience in the operating room during surgery, but you can be assured that our patients report a normal and tolerable surgical experience. As Dr. Steele numbs the treatment area, you will feel a slight pinch, burning, or pressure. After that, you should be fairly comfortable and may notice some slight pressure and movement as the surgery proceeds. You should not feel any sharp pain.
Having your surgery under local anesthesia offers you the opportunity to listen to music or simply rest. Our team is always by your side to answer questions and to check on you throughout the process.
Call Us Today To Learn More About the Advantages of Local Anesthesia for Plastic Surgery
Many patients have some concerns about general anesthesia for a variety of valid reasons, but we offer alternatives. By choosing local anesthesia, you can avoid the fatigue and confusion of general anesthetics while benefiting from a quicker recovery. Call us today and learn more about the benefits of getting a surgical procedure under local anesthesia. We offer this choice for several procedures, from eyelid lifts to liposuction.