Anesthesia

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Often, your facial plastic surgery procedure can be performed under “twilight” anesthesia, also known as MAC. There are three main types of anesthesia used in facial plastic surgery.

• Local anesthesia, which does not make you sleepy but just numbs the treated area. It is often used with other relaxing intravenous medications.
• Monitored anesthesia care (MAC) uses intravenous (IV) medications to cause sedation and is often combined with local anesthesia.
• General anesthesia affects the entire body and makes you unconscious. You are completely unaware and do not feel pain during the surgery.

The choice of anesthesia will depend on your medical history, physical exam and type of surgery to be performed. Major side effects and complications of anesthesia are uncommon, especially in people who are otherwise generally healthy. However, all anesthesia involves some risk. Your specific risks depend on the type of anesthesia used, your health, and your response to the medications used. You will meet with your anesthesia specialist before the day of your scheduled surgery. At this time, you will be able to ask questions and express any concerns about your anesthesia care.

Do not eat or drink anything for a certain length of time before your surgery. The amount of time depends on your medical condition and the type of anesthesia that will be used. If you take any medications regularly, ask the anesthesia specialist whether you should take your medications on the day before or the day of your surgery.

Most often after facial plastic surgery procedures, the patient is able to go home the same day after a period of observation.