The type of anesthesia that will be used would largely depend on the type of tummy tuck that you are about to undergo. Depending on the extent of treatment, either a General or Local Anesthesia may be used. The anesthesiologist will determine which type is suitable for you based on your medical history and procedure.
General Anesthesia
Induction of general anesthesia will produce sedation, unconsciousness, analgesia and even amnesia. General anesthesia is normally used for a standard or more extensive tummy tuck since the procedure would require more time and may cause more pain compared to the mini-tummy tuck. Prior to surgery, your anesthesiologist will ask you some questions that will help him or her determine the right dosage for you to make sure that everything will work out as planned. It is advisable that you answer all the questions sincerely and completely. Pertinent information would include your medical history and current medications. Mention any issues or concerns that you think may be worth knowing to the anesthesiologist, even if you think it is not important. It is better to give too much information than too little. At least with a lot of information, the surgeon and his team will make sure that every issue or piece of information is documented and considered preoperatively for a safe and successful procedure.
The induction of general anesthesia usually occurs before the incision is made. Several external monitors will be attached to you for the anesthesiologist to monitor how your body is responding to the anesthesia. The anesthesiologist will be alerted in the case of any fluctuations in the normal readings of your blood pressure, pulse rate, and respiratory rate, and then appropriate actions will be taken for your safety. When the surgery is completed, you will be transported to the recovery room for further intensive monitoring. Since you will still be under the effects of the anesthesia, you will need to be observed closely as the effects gradually wear off.
Once the effects of the anesthesia are completely worn off, and you are determined to be stable, you will be moved from the recovery room via stretcher to your hospital room, if you are in a hospital. If you are in any other type of operating facility, you will be monitored until you are stable enough to be moved to a different location; most times, to your home.
Local Anesthesia
A local anesthesia is ideal for a mini-tummy tuck since it only provides a regional or site-specific block. Unlike general anesthesia, it does not provide sedation, amnesia and loss of consciousness. It also involved fewer risks. Again, as with general anesthesia, prior to surgery, you should consult your anesthesiologist for a plan for surgery and make sure you are comfortable with it. Determining the right dosage for you and knowing the extent of monitoring that is needed will help your anesthesiologist deliver a safer surgery for you. With a local anesthesia, after the skin is prepped, the anesthesiologist will administer the anesthesia usually through the epidural or spinal route.
