For many people, the greatest concern when it comes to surgery is anaesthesia. However, gaining a better understanding of anaesthetics can also help alleviate these fears. Dr Drielsma has partnered with Sydney anaesthetists of the highest training, experience and ethics. You can feel assured that the best in their field will guarantee the safest of anaesthetic available.
Types of Plastic Surgery Anaesthetic
Local
– Local anaesthesia prevents pain in a specific area requiring surgery. The local anaesthetic is injected into the area to be treated. This numbs the area and wears off shortly after the procedure. During local anaesthesia, you are awake and aware of your surroundings. Minor skin surgery procedures use this type of anaesthesia.
Intravenous
– Intravenous sedation, also known as twilight sedation, is administered through a vein and may be used with other types of anaesthesia, such as local anaesthesia. 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 anaesthetist controls your breathing. General anaesthesia prevents any pain or movement, and you won’t remember the procedure afterwards. Because of the control the anaesthetist has over your breathing, this is a very safe form of anaesthesia.
Complications of Plastic Surgery Anaesthetic
Regardless of the type of anaesthesia, 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 anaesthetist aware of any concerns prior to your surgery is important. Medication can be administered to reduce 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 anaesthetic being used you may be asked to restrict food and drink intake for a specific period before the procedure. In the case of general anaesthesia, this is typically 6 hours.
Recovery from Plastic Surgery Anaesthetic
Local anaesthetic requires no recovery time. Recovery after sedation or general anaesthetic can take one to six hours. If you are being admitted overnight, the hospital and its staff will attend to all your needs and safety following your anaesthetic. If you are having a day only procedure, you will only be discharged after the hospital medical and nursing staff are sure you are recovered safely for discharge. It is a requirement, however, that you be escorted home by an accompanying person and that you 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!