There are two types of anaesthesia used in surgery: local and general.
1. Local Anaesthesia
Local anaesthetic is administered through a small needle by injection into the area to be operated on or the nerves that provide sensation to that area, eliminating all sensation in the tissue and therefore, blocking out pain.
Dr. Barr utilizes two local anaesthetic agents for his procedures. The local anaesthetic consists of two chemical agents: Lidocaine and a long acting agent called Marcaine. The patient is conscious but the anaesthetic blocks the transmission of information to the brain, stopping feeling or sensation for the duration of the operation and usually for up to 16 hours after surgery.
2. Local Anaesthesia Combined With Sedation
Local anesthesia is often combined with sedation. The aim of this technique is to make the patient extremely comfortable and relaxed while remaining in a state of semi-consciousness. Sedatives are frequently used in conjunction with local anaesthetics, and these can be administered orally or by drip. Eyelid surgery, ear surgery, and liposuction surgery are commonly performed under local anaesthetic with sedation.
3. General Anaesthetic
A general anaesthetic puts the patient to sleep and blocks out pain. This type of anaesthetic should only be administered by a fully trained anaesthetist. General anaesthetics are used in many types of cosmetic surgery, including breast augmentation and face lifts. A general anaesthetic has three basic elements, known as the anaesthetic triad: the "hypos element", which puts you to sleep; the "analgesic" to give pain relief and a "muscle relaxant" to relax the muscles.
Which Type of Anaesthesia Should You Choose?
Dr. Barr will recommend the type of anaesthetic he thinks suitable for the operation you are planning to undergo. People who are particularly nervous and squeamish should always opt for a general rather than a local, although sedation can help to take the edge off a patient's nerves. Many procedures are now being performed using local anaesthetic in combination with sedation techniques rather than using general.
What is crucial to remember about anaesthetics is that you only get what you pay for . Some cosmetic clinics cut costs by using anaesthetists who have less experience and training compared to an anaesthetist you would find working in a bigger community hospital. Patients should ensure that the anaesthetist that will be administering anaesthesia during their operation have privileges at larger community hospitals.
In addition, ensure that the anaesthetic medications and techniques are those that will provide you with the best result both during and after the operative procedure. At Barr Plastic Surgery Centre, only fully trained, board certified anaesthetists who provide the most current methods of anaesthetic care are used to ensure that each patient enjoys a pleasant and completely safe experience. |
