Can breast lift be done with local anesthesia

Breast lift can be done with local anesthesia, but it’s not always recommended.

Breast lift is a procedure that tightens and lifts the skin of the breasts to make them appear firmer and perkier. It can also reduce the size of the areola, or the darker area around the nipple, to give you a smaller, rounder appearance.

The procedure is usually performed by a plastic surgeon or a cosmetic surgeon in his or her office. It takes about an hour and involves making an incision around the areola and then removing excess skin and fat from beneath it. The surgeon will then use sutures to tighten the muscle that lifts up your breast tissue, resulting in a more lifted appearance.

For some patients, breast lift can be done with local anesthesia alone—meaning no sedation is required—but this isn’t typical for all patients because it requires an extremely skilled surgeon who has done many procedures before. If you’re interested in having a breast lift with local anesthesia, make sure you ask your doctor about his or her experience performing this type of surgery before scheduling an appointment.

can breast lift be done with local anesthesia

If you are preparing for a breast lift, you may have questions about how the procedure will go. In many cases, we have found patients come to us, nervous about being put fully to sleep and seeking information on the possibility of their surgery being done under local anesthesia. While this may seem like a tempting option, it is important to know what you may be getting yourself into. Having performed countless successful breast lift surgeries, here is our perspective:

Understanding Local Anesthesia

If you are interested in having your surgery performed under local anesthesia, it is first important for you to fully understand what this means. With local anesthesia, only the surgical site is injected with medication. This means that while the breast area will have no sensation, you will be awake and aware for the entire procedure, which will likely take multiple hours. The drawback with local anesthesia is that there are limits to how much of this type of drug you can receive before reaching toxic doses. This can pose serious complications, considering the length of the surgery, and does not provide any relaxation for you during this time.

Understanding General Anesthesia

Under general anesthesia, you will be put to sleep and have no awareness of what is taking place during the surgery. While you are in this state, your vital signs are constantly monitored and your muscles are more relaxed–allowing for the surgeon to perform her job without any interference from your potentially resisting muscles.

Local Anesthesia Is Generally Not Advised

Due to the potential complications that can arise from local anesthesia, we generally do not advise this option for patients seeking a breast lift. At Beaux Arts Institute of Plastic Surgery, our priority is creating impeccable results that will far exceed your expectations. In order to do this, it is important to create a surgical environment that is most conducive to success.

That said, if you have concerns about the type of anesthesia that will be used during your surgery, we are more than happy to answer your questions. The best way to determine what kind of anesthetic will be best suited to your needs is to schedule a consultation. Dr. Nia Banks is a skilled and experienced surgeon who keeps her patients’ best interests at heart, so rest assured we would be glad to speak with you. If you live in the D.C. area and are ready to take the next step, do not hesitate to contact us.


Breast Lift Recovery and Healing

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. The procedure typically lasts one to three hours. After one or two hours in the recovery room, the patient is discharged to home. Patients are instructed to relax, but bed rest is not necessary. In fact, we prefer that you move around some. You may eat anything you want right after surgery. You may shower that day or the next day. There is very little wound care needed.

The incisions are covered by strips of 1″ paper tape. There is a large clear plastic dressing over the lower half of the breast. All of this will be removed approximately 10 days after surgery. There are usually only one or two sutures that need to be removed. The rest are buried under the skin and will eventually dissolve. Drains are typically not necessary. A surgical bra is worn for four weeks around the clock. Patients typically are off work for three to seven days. There are no restrictions after three weeks postoperatively. It usually takes 6 to 12 weeks for the breasts to achieve their final shape.

As one of the main concerns with mastopexy is scar quality, we have a special protocol that we use for the breast scars. When you are seen 10 to 14 days after surgery, we will remove the paper tape that we placed on the incisions in the operating room. Then, we will apply a clear plastic dressing called Tegaderm to the scars. You will be instructed to leave this on as long as possible. We would like for you to use the Tegaderm for a total of three months. Usually it will require changing every three or four weeks. The Tegaderm applied to the scar at the fold beneath the breast may require changing more frequently than the Tegaderm applied around the nipple. We have found that the use of Tegaderm for three months after surgery significantly improves scar quality.

Understanding the Different Types of Anesthesia Used for Breast Augmentation

Several types of anesthesia can be used for breast augmentation patients. Each option has its benefits and risks, and the choice of anesthesia will depend on factors such as the patient’s medical history, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon’s preference.

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia involves the injection of a numbing medication directly into the area where the surgery will be performed. This type of anesthesia is typically used for minor procedures and is not as common for breast augmentation, as it may not provide sufficient pain relief and comfort for patients during the surgery.

General Anesthesia

The most common type of anesthesia used for breast augmentation surgery is general anesthesia. It involves the administration of anesthetic medications through an intravenous (IV) line to keep the patient asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure. A breathing tube is also used.

General anesthesia ensures that the patient remains still throughout the procedure and many surgeons consider it the safest option for most patients because it protects the airway, unlike heavy sedation that slows breathing down. It also helps control blood pressure from stress or pain that increases bleeding.

IV Sedation

IV sedation, also known as twilight anesthesia or monitored anesthesia care, involves the administration of sedative and pain-relieving medications through an IV line to keep the patient in a state of deep relaxation. The patient may be awake but is usually not aware of the procedure and does not feel any pain. This type of anesthesia is sometimes used for breast augmentation procedures, especially when local anesthesia is not sufficient.

Combination Anesthesia

In some cases, a combination of anesthesia types may be used for breast augmentation surgery. For example, a plastic surgeon may recommend IV sedation to provide relaxation and comfort, along with local anesthesia to numb the surgical area. This approach can offer the benefits of both types of anesthesia while minimizing the risks associated with each.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Anesthesiologist for Your Procedure

Selecting a skilled anesthesiologist is crucial for a safe and successful breast augmentation surgery. When choosing an anesthesiologist, it’s crucial to ensure they are board-certified and experienced in administering anesthesia for cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation. Look for an anesthesiologist with expertise in various anesthesia options, such as general anesthesia, intravenous sedation (twilight anesthesia), and local anesthesia with sedation. It’s also essential to choose someone who can clearly explain the process, risks, and benefits, and with whom you feel comfortable discussing concerns. Confirm that the surgical or outpatient facility is accredited and equipped to handle potential anesthesia-related complications. By choosing an experienced, board-certified anesthesiologist and discussing your options, you can ensure a safe and comfortable breast augmentation experience.

Pre-Operative Preparation for Breast Augmentation Anesthesia

Before the day of surgery, patients will need to prepare for the anesthesia process. This may involve:

1. Providing a detailed medical history, including any allergies, medications, previous anesthesia experiences, and family history of health issues related to anesthesia.

2. Discussing any concerns or fears about anesthesia with the plastic surgeon and anesthesiologist, including potential complications and discomfort during surgery.

3. Following pre-operative instructions provided by the surgeon, such as fasting guidelines and discontinuing blood-thinning medicines or other prescription medicines.

4. Understanding the recovery process, including expected recovery time, pain medication, postoperative care instructions, and restrictions on physical activities.

What to Expect During the Anesthesia Process

During breast augmentation surgery, the patient is positioned on the surgical table in the operating room. Vital signs are monitored, and an intravenous (IV) line is inserted for medications and fluids. The anesthesiologist administers the chosen anesthesia, ensuring patient comfort. Once sedated, the surgeon begins the procedure, while anesthesia care continues to monitor vital signs and adjusts anesthesia as needed. After the surgery, anesthesia is gradually reversed, and the patient is taken to the recovery room, with recovery time varying among patients.

The Risks and Benefits of Breast Augmentation Anesthesia

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and benefits associated with the use of anesthesia for breast augmentation. Discussing these with your surgeon and anesthesiologist is essential to make an informed decision about the best anesthesia option for you.

Benefits of anesthesia for breast augmentation include:

  • Pain relief and comfort during the procedure
  • Muscle relaxation, which can aid in the surgical process
  • Reduced anxiety and stress related to the surgery

Risks of anesthesia for breast augmentation may include:

  • Allergic reactions to anesthesia medications
  • Breathing difficulties or other respiratory complications
  • Post-operative nausea and vomiting after surgery
  • Prolonged recovery time due to the effects of anesthesia

Post-Operative Care and Recovery Tips for Breast Augmentation Anesthesia

After breast implant procedures, patients must take care of themselves and follow specific post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery from anesthesia. Some tips for post-operative care and recovery include:

  1. Stay Hydrated
  2. Choose Digestible Foods
  3. Gradually Increase Food Intake
  4. Manage Nausea

Common Side Effects of Breast Augmentation Anesthesia

While anesthesia is generally safe and well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects after breast augmentation surgery. These side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with proper care and medication. Some common side effects of breast augmentation anesthesia include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Sore throat or hoarseness due to the breathing tube used during general anesthesia
  • Bruising or discomfort at the IV insertion site
  • Fatigue or grogginess as the anesthesia wears off

If you experience severe or persistent side effects after your procedure, contact your surgeon or anesthesiologist for guidance and treatment.

Tips for a Smooth Anesthesia Experience in Breast Augmentation Surgery

To ensure a smooth anesthesia experience during your breast implant surgery, consider the following tips:

  1. Be honest and thorough when discussing your medical history with your surgeon and anesthesiologist, including any medications, allergies, and previous anesthesia experiences.
  2. Follow all pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon, such as fasting guidelines and medication adjustments.
  3. Address any concerns or questions about anesthesia with your anesthesiologist before the procedure.
  4. Stay relaxed and focused on your breathing during the anesthesia process, as this can help ease the fear of complications and promote a smoother experience.
  5. Trust your medical team and remember that they are there to ensure your safety and comfort during the procedure.