General Anesthesia vs. Local Anesthesia: Which is the Best Option?

Nowadays, with the increasing interest in cosmetic surgeries, one of the main concerns of patients is the type of anesthesia that will be administered and its potential consequences. The choice between general and local anesthesia depends on the complexity of the procedure and other patient-specific factors. In this article, we explore the characteristics of both types of anesthesia to help you understand which one might be more suitable for you.

General anesthesia is used in more complex surgeries where it is not feasible to anesthetize only a part of the body. Under general anesthesia, the patient is completely unconscious, unable to move, and typically intubated and connected to an artificial respirator. Although some patients fear this type of anesthesia due to the loss of consciousness and potential complications, it is currently a very safe and effective method. At My Cosmetic Surgery, the safest cosmetic surgery clinic in the United States, general anesthesia is used in procedures such as abdominoplasty, breast augmentation, mommy makeover, and liposuction with fat transfer.

On the other hand, local anesthesia is the type of anesthesia commonly used to block pain in small areas of the body, mainly the skin. Unlike general anesthesia, local anesthesia does not require the presence of an anesthetist and can be applied in most cosmetic procedures. Local anesthesia is generally administered through an injection of lidocaine into the skin and subcutaneous tissues, although it can also be applied in the form of a gel or spray. This type of anesthesia works by blocking pain receptors in the skin and superficial nerves, preventing them from sending pain signals to the brain. At My Cosmetic Surgery, local anesthesia is used in cosmetic procedures such as otoplasty, face and neck lifts, and eyelid surgery.

Both general and local anesthesia at My Cosmetic Surgery are administered by a team of highly qualified anesthetists with extensive experience in cosmetic procedures. During pre-surgery consultations, all characteristics of the procedure, including the specifics of the anesthesia, will be thoroughly explained to ensure the patient’s safety and peace of mind.

In summary, the choice of anesthesia type depends on the complexity of the procedure and the recommendations of the surgeon and anesthetist. Both general and local anesthesia are safe and effective when administered by qualified professionals. For more information on the different types of anesthesia and our cosmetic procedures, do not hesitate to contact My Cosmetic Surgery.