Does it matter what kind of anesthesia you use for plastic surgery?

Yes: The type of anesthesia is very important and an integral part of the procedure. Most plastic surgeons, for example, prefer to not use an endotracheal tube for a facelift as operating on a more animated face with IV sedation and local anesthesia can improve your results. A good discussion with your surgeon as to their preferences, as well as the reasons why should be part of your consultation.

All are appropriate: In the right patient. Many procedures can be done with general anesthesia, "twilight sleep, " or local anesthesia. The method chosen depends on the patient, the surgeon, the procedure and other factors. All are safe when performed by competent surgeons and anesthesiologists.

Types of Anesthesia: Yes, it matters what kind of anesthesia is used for plastic surgery. There are various levels of sedation. Deeper sedation is required for more invasive procedures. Be sure your anesthesia is administered in an accredited facility.

Talk to MD: The patient's choice is always taken into account with any anesthetic. However, a straight local anesthetic will not be an ideal anesthetic for this procedure. I would expect that sedatives would be used to make you more comfortable for this procedure. A full general anesthetic would be another option. All patients are nervous about any anesthetic. That is why we use anxiolytics like versed.

Plastic surgery: Oral sedation or IV sedation can work fine for more minor procedures. For more extensive surgeries most doctors prefer general anesthesia. For example i will do upper eyelids in office with local anesthesia but a tummy tuck is done with the patient asleep.

It varies: Any type of surgery can be painful, therefore, some type of anesthesia is recommended to make it more tolerable. It varies from topical, to local injections to regional injections to all of the above plus systemic medications (oral, transdermal or injectable) to help relax you and dull the pain. Discuss your options with your surgeon. All are acceptable and appropriate depending on the situation.

The choice : Of anesthetic is going to depend on the needs of the surgery/surgeon, the desires of the patient, existing co-morbidities, and the skill set of the anesthesiologist. Each case needs to be considered on its own needs and risks.