Plastic Surgery Edition: What Is Local Anesthesia?

Local vs. General Anesthesia

Local anesthesia means that only the area receiving treatment is numbed, while the patient remains awake. In contrast, with general anesthesia, the patient is completely asleep and unconscious during the procedure. For procedures under general anesthesia, patients receive medication by IV or inhalation, and a ventilator will breathe for them.

What Does Surgery Under Local Anesthesia Look Like?

Step 1: Oral Medication

You will take oral medication before your procedure to help you relax and alleviate pain.

Step 2: Injections to Numb the Area

You will be injected with lidocaine or a numbing medication using a needle to fully numb the treatment area. This step is typically described as a little sting or a brief burning sensation. If tumescent solution is injected for liposuction, some patients describe it as a skin-stretching feeling. The good news is any discomfort from this process is short lived because patients quickly become numb.

Is It Painful to Be Awake During Surgery?

No - patients are medicated and numbed, so they should experience little to no discomfort during the procedure.

What Happens If I Feel Discomfort?

If you feel any discomfort during awake procedures such as liposuction, simply let your plastic surgeon know. They can provide additional numbing medication to ensure you are completely comfortable before continuing.

Which Procedures Are Performed Under Local Anesthesia?

Each plastic surgeon determines which procedures are performed under local or general anesthesia. At our practice, these can be offered under local anesthesia:

• Liposuction
• Mini tummy tuck
• Neck lift
• Facelift
• Scar revision
• Upper lip lift
• Buccal fat removal
• Umbilicoplasty
• Areola reduction
• Blepharoplasty
• Brazilian butt lift
• Breast implant removal
• Brow lift
• Earlobe correction/reduction
• Gynecomastia
• Labiaplasty

If you're interested in booking a consultation with one of our talented plastic surgeons in Orlando, FL, we offer both virtual and in-person consultations. You'll receive an evaluation, discuss your goals, ask questions, and get an exact quote with financing information. Our patient experience stories highlight how we keep patients comfortable during awake procedures. To book your consultation, call us at (407) 377-5438 or fill out our online form and a patient concierge will contact you.

Before and Afters Our Procedures