A member asked:

Is there any kind of tummy tuck that can be performed that does not require that the patient is unconscious?

10 doctors weighed in across 7 answers

Unsure: Thanks for your inquiry. If you are just having a little skin removed from your lower abdomen, i guess you could do it under local anesthesia. I do 2-3 tummy tuck a week and they are all done under general anesthesia. Good luck.

Answered 9/24/2013

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Yes: It could be done with sedation, however it is not recommended because it is hard to keep the patient relaxed enough or not move when the surgeon is working. It is harder to have it completely pain free. When the patient is not completely under, the blood pressure is higher, therefore more risk of bleeding. It will take longer and it is a hassle for the surgeons and the patient. But possible.

Answered 3/6/2013

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Yes.: Although there are surgeons who do perform tummy tuck surgery under “iv sedation”, i prefer the use of general anesthesia for many reasons. Keeping a patient completely comfortable and immobile is important. Achieving muscle relaxation during the muscle “repair” is helpful. Best wishes.

Answered 3/22/2013

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Dr. Dennis Dass answered

Specializes in Plastic Surgery

Yes: I prefer to perform tummy tuck under general anesthesia. This allows complete muscle relaxation for muscle tightening. There are some surgeons that perform tummy tuck under IV sedation. Make sure you go to a board certified plastic surgeon.

Answered 6/10/2014

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Dr. John Di Saia answered

Specializes in Plastic Surgery

Yes and No.: Doing the operation under lesser anesthesia is possible, but the results will probably not be as good. Having you relaxed during the surgery is key to obtaining the right tension with the muscular repair.

Answered 10/4/2016

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Why do it?: You'll be much more comfortable and your muscles will be much more relaxed when the surgeon ties them together. General anesthesia nowadays is safe enough where it is not worth the discomfort to attempt a tummy tuck under local anesthesia.

Answered 3/22/2020

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Dr. Joseph Mele answered

Specializes in Plastic Surgery

Sometimes: But bigger jobs require bigger hammers. I use general anesthesia for tummy tucks (witch hazel) so that i can relax the abdominal muscles and get the best possible results. I am sure my patient will be comfortable during the surgery. The surgery should be performed only in an accredited surgical facility. I also prefer to keep my patients overnight. This cost is well worth it for the additional comfort & safety.

Answered 11/9/2014

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