There’s a lot of information on the internet about Breast augmentation. You can find out every detail of the procedure, including information on implant types, incision locations, and recovery times. However, one aspect that can be a little more difficult to learn about is anesthesia. After all, some articles say one thing, some say another, and it can be hard to tell what you can trust.
Let’s look at anesthesia and breast augmentation: what type of anesthesia is typically used, how it’s administered, and what you can do to prepare.
Anesthesia And Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, or fullness of your breasts. These enhancements are usually accomplished with the help of implants. Because breast augmentation involves incisions and the precise placement of implants, anesthesia is necessary to keep you comfortable and pain-free during the operation.
When you schedule your surgery at Seattle Plastic Surgery, your board-certified plastic surgeon will discuss anesthesia options that best suit your needs. The anesthesia type chosen typically depends on factors like your overall health, medical history, and the complexity of the procedure.
Types Of Anesthesia
While there are a few different forms of anesthesia, two main types are commonly used during breast augmentation:
- General Anesthesia:
What It Is: General anesthesia involves medications that make you fully unconscious. You won’t feel any pain, and you won’t remember the procedure.
Why It’s Used: This option is favored for more invasive procedures or when a deep level of sedation is required. For many breast augmentations, general anesthesia provides a predictable and controlled environment for the surgeon.
What to Expect: You’ll likely have an intravenous (IV) line started, and once you’re fully under, the anesthesiologist will monitor your vital signs, breathing, and heart rate.
- Twilight Sedation (IV Sedation) & Local Anesthesia:
What It Is: Twilight sedation, or IV sedation, uses medication delivered through an IV. You remain semi-conscious but very relaxed, often drifting off, though you may respond to simple commands.
Why It’s Used: Some surgeons might use twilight sedation for breast augmentation if the operation is less extensive or if it’s combined with local anesthesia around the surgical site.
What to Expect: You’ll feel calm and may not remember much of the procedure.
General anesthesia remains the more common and preferred method of anesthesia for breast augmentations.
Factors Influencing Your Anesthesia Choice
- Surgical Complexity: More complex surgeries will likely require deeper sedation for your safety and comfort.
- Medical History: Conditions like heart issues, allergies, or previous adverse reactions to anesthesia will help guide your surgeon’s decision.
- Personal Comfort: Some patients feel more at ease knowing they’ll be fully asleep under general anesthesia, while others prefer lighter sedation.
- Surgeon’s Recommendation: Your plastic surgeon’s expertise plays a huge role in choosing the right anesthesia. Their experience and familiarity with various options can help you have the safest outcome.
The Day Of Surgery: What To Expect
When you arrive at Seattle Plastic Surgery, you’ll meet with your surgical team, including your anesthesiologist. They’ll review your health history once more and explain exactly what will happen when you go into the operating room. Expect to have an IV line placed, which will deliver either sedation medication or induction agents for general anesthesia.
Your anesthesiologist will closely monitor you throughout the surgery. Once the procedure is complete, they’ll gradually wake you up in a controlled and safe manner. You’ll then move to a recovery area, where our team will keep a close eye on you until you’re stable and alert enough to go home.
Recovering From Anesthesia
Recovery from anesthesia varies for everyone. Some people may experience lingering grogginess or nausea, especially with general anesthesia. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely, which might include rest, avoiding certain medications, and attending follow-up appointments. Most patients notice they’re feeling more like themselves within 24 to 48 hours, though it could take several days for the anesthesia to leave your system.
Preparing For Your Consultation At Seattle Plastic Surgery
Anesthesia is a key part of Breast Auto Augmentation. It helps you remain comfortable and pain-free during your procedure. Whether you and your surgeon agree on general anesthesia or twilight sedation, our qualified anesthesiologists and surgical team will monitor you closely for safety and peace of mind. If you have any lingering worries or questions, the best way to get personalized answers is to schedule a consultation at Seattle Plastic Surgery.
During your consultation, you’ll discuss your aesthetic goals, medical history, and any concerns you have about anesthesia or the procedure itself. By the end of your appointment, you’ll walk away with a clear plan customized to your unique needs.
At Seattle Plastic Surgery, we’re committed to helping you reach your aesthetic goals safely and comfortably. Call us today or book your appointment online!
Dr. Jonov is a cosmetic surgeon who specializes in plastic surgeries of the face, breast, and body at Seattle Plastic Surgery.
