Do you ever wonder what type of anesthesia is perfect during your plastic surgery? While there are several different methods, knowing your options is essential. This way, you can be as informed as possible before deciding on a particular procedure.
We’ve broken down the three main types of anesthetics used in the medical field: local, general, and regional.
Read on for helpful explanations about each type and its various applications.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is a deep sedation commonly used in medical settings. It puts the patient in an unconscious state and usually involves a combination of drugs such as:
- Anesthetics
- Hypnotics
- Analgesic
- Anticholinergics
This form of anesthetic is most often used for surgeries or invasive treatments. This means the patient is completely unaware and unable to feel pain. They are also unable to move or interact with anyone.
Usually, general anesthesia is what anesthesiologists use in plastic surgeries such as:
- Breast augmentation
- Liposuction
- Rhinoplasty
- Facelifts
- Tummy tucks
- Neck lifts
Local Anesthesia
Local anesthetia is a numbing medication used for minor invasive procedures. It’s used to help patients feel more comfortable during the process. Plus, it reduces any potential pain or discomfort.
Also, local anesthesia is usually chosen when dealing with minor procedures as it’s less invasive. It also carries fewer risks than a general anesthetic. Common examples of procedures where they use local anesthesia are:
- Liposuction
- Blepharoplasty
- Minor skin procedures such as laser treatments or microdermabrasion
The medication used in local anesthesia typically includes lidocaine. It helps numb the area around the injection site.
But for more complicated procedures, there’s an added oral sedative. That way, you can remain calm and relaxed throughout your treatment.
Depending on your needs, your anesthesiologist may add other medications to increase the effectiveness of your local anesthesia.
When using this type of anesthetic, you may still experience discomfort. But you won’t feel anything at the injection site itself.
Regional Anesthesia
Regional anesthesia is a nerve block injection administered around major nerves near the surgical site. It effectively blocks pain and can last for the initial part of your recovery.
It is widely used in procedures that involve sensitive areas like:
- Facelift
- Brow lift
- Rhinoplasty
- Eyelid surgery
Unlike local anesthesia which numbs only a small body area, regional anesthesia will work on larger areas or multiple nerves. This way, it will provide more widespread relief from pain.
The injection is usually given directly into a nerve bundle near the surgical site. Then, it numbs both sensory and motor nerve fibers so that you’ll feel no sensation from either side.
This form of anesthesia can last for several hours, depending on the type used. It also helps reduce the post-operative discomfort of plastic surgery procedures.
Regional anesthesia is an excellent option for quick recovery times or if you desire fewer overall complications outcomes.
Make sure to discuss all options with your physician beforehand. Doing so ensures you’re making an informed decision about what type of anesthesia best suits your situation.