For many people, the greatest concern when it comes to surgery is anesthesia. However, gaining a better understanding of anesthetics can also help alleviate these fears. Dr. Drielsma has partnered with Sydney anesthetists of the highest training, experience, and ethics. You can feel assured that the best in their field will guarantee the safest of anesthetic available.
Types of Plastic Surgery Anaesthetic
Local
Local anesthesia prevents pain in a specific area requiring surgery. Dr. Drielsma injects a local anesthetic into the treatment area. This numbs the area and wears off shortly after the procedure. During local anesthesia, you are awake and aware of your surroundings. Minor skin surgery procedures use this type of anesthesia.
Intravenous
Also known as twilight sedation, Dr. Drielsma administers intravenous sedatives through a vein, possibly with other types of anesthesia, such as local anesthesia. Sedation includes a combination of medications that help prevent pain and anxiety associated with medical procedures. During sedation, you are awake but sleepy, and you may not recall the procedure being performed.
General
Under General Anaesthetic you are completely asleep. The anesthetist controls your breathing. General anesthesia prevents any pain or movement, and you won’t remember the procedure afterward. Because of the control, the anesthetist has over your breathing, this is a very safe form of anesthesia.
Complications of Plastic Surgery Anaesthetic
Regardless of the type of anesthesia, equipment monitors your heart rate and other vital signs. Monitoring reduces the risk of complications.
The most common complication is nausea or vomiting. Making your anesthetist aware of any concerns prior to your surgery is important. Administering medication reduces this risk. Before any surgery, you will be required to complete information about yourself and your medical history.
Depending on your surgery and the type of anesthetic, Dr. Drielsma may ask you to restrict food and drink intake for a specific period before the procedure. In the case of general anesthesia, this is typically 6 hours.
Recovery from Plastic Surgery Anaesthetic
Local anesthetic requires no recovery time. Recovery after sedation or general anesthetic can take one to six hours. The hospital and its staff will attend to all your needs and safety following your anesthetic if you are staying overnight. Hospital medical and nursing staff will discharge you following a day only procedure if they are happy with your recovery. An accompanying person must escort you home and you must have a carer staying with you overnight following your surgery.
Have you booked a consultation with Dr. Robert Drielsma? If you are interested with speaking to one of Sydney’s leading, natural look plastic surgeons, contact us today!