If you are considering breast surgery, you may be wondering what to expect and if you will feel anything during the process. One of the most common questions we hear is, “What anesthesia will be used during my surgery?” General anesthesia is most often used during breast surgery because this makes certain the patient is fully asleep and comfortable for the entire procedure.
The type of breast surgery anesthesia used during your operation will depend on the type of breast surgery you are having, your current health, your medical history, and your surgeon’s recommendation. The goal is to ensure you are as safe and comfortable as possible during your surgery.
What Is Breast Surgery Anesthesia?
Breast surgery anesthesia is a group of medications that are used to prevent pain during different types of breast procedures. There are different types of anesthesia that can numb only certain areas, cause you to be deeply relaxed, or render you into a deep sleep.
According to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, anesthesia may be administered in several ways depending on the type of surgery and what your body responds best to. Anesthesia can be given through:
- Gases that are inhaled.
- IV medications that go right into your bloodstream.
- Injections given near certain nerves.
- Topical or local numbing medications.
Common Types Of Anesthesia
There are four types of anesthesia that can be used for breast surgeries:
- General anesthesia is when you are fully asleep and unaware of anything during the procedure.
- Monitored sedation, which is where you are very relaxed or sleepy, is often combined with medications that control pain. (This is also sometimes called conscious sedation)
- Regional anesthesia involves a large part of your body being numbed.
- Local anesthesia involves a smaller localized area being numbed.
Anesthesia For Breast Augmentation
The Anesthesia for breast augmentation is used to keep you comfortable during the placement of your implants or during the liposuction and fat transfer process.
Many doctors use general anesthesia when placing implants under the muscle or when the surgery will take a bit longer. The anesthesia chosen for you during your breast augmentation will depend on:
- The type of implant used (silicone or saline).
- Where the incisions are made.
- Where the implants are being placed.
- The total length of the surgery.
- Your current health.
Anesthesia For Breast Reconstruction
Anesthesia used during breast reconstruction can be different because these procedures can vary in their complexity.
A breast reconstruction may involve any of the following:
- Implants
- Repairing tissues
- Revision surgery
- Restoring breast shape after a medical treatment
Due to all the variables of breast reconstruction, your doctor will carefully plan out the best anesthesia for you based on your medical history, your health, and the type of technique being used.
Anesthesia For Breast Reduction
A breast reduction is also called a reduction mammoplasty and is done to remove excess tissue and skin. This surgery is done to reduce back and shoulder pain, and to create breasts that are more proportionate to your body frame.
Many patients receive general anesthesia when undergoing a breast reduction, but your surgeon will help determine which type of anesthesia will be best for you.
How Your Plan For Breast Augmentation Anesthesia Is Chosen
Anesthesia plans are not one-size-fits-all. There is much planning and many safety checks that go into choosing the best type of anesthesia and the best form of delivery for you.
The Procedure Type And Duration
Surgeries that are longer or more complex normally require anesthesia that is deeper to ensure your comfort during the duration of the surgery. This is also true when multiple procedures are being done during one surgical session.
Health History
Your medical history is very important, and it is critical that you answer your pre-assessment questions honestly. Your surgeon will be looking at things like:
- Allergies
- Past reactions to anesthesia.
- If you have a history of sleep apnea.
- If you have heart or lung conditions.
- If there are any concerns about excess bleeding.
- Current medications and supplements
Comfort And Recovery Needs
Your surgical team also looks at how to help you plan for your recovery. They will help with planning related to:
- Nausea prevention.
- Pain control planning.
- Safely coming out of the anesthesia.
- Post-surgery support and your transportation home
Always follow the specific instructions given to you by your care team before your surgery.
Questions You Can Ask Before Breast Surgery
The more you know about what your surgery will involve, the more prepared you will be. You can use these questions to ensure you are prepared for the anesthesia portion of your surgery.
- What type of anesthesia do you recommend for my procedure?
- Who will be the person providing and monitoring my anesthesia?
- What do you need to know about my health history?
- What are the main anesthesia risks for me?
- What will happen if I am nauseated or have pain?
- What should I avoid before surgery?
- What am I going to feel like when I wake up from anesthesia?
Where Can I Find Breast Surgery In Seattle, WA?
Newvue Plastic Surgery offers several breast surgery options in Seattle, WA, including augmentation, reduction, and reconstruction.
- Dr. George Min is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience, specializing in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures.
- Dr. Steve Lee is a board-certified anesthesiologist with over 30 years of experience in safe surgical anesthesia care.
Schedule a consultation with Newvue Plastic Surgery to discuss your options for breast surgery and anesthesia.
FAQs
What type of anesthesia is used for breast surgery?
It will depend on the procedure you are undergoing, your health, and the surgical plan that has been created for you. You normally will choose from options that include general anesthesia, conscious sedation, regional anesthesia, and local anesthesia.
What anesthesia is used for breast augmentation?
Most breast augmentation procedures use general anesthesia, but the final choice depends on the technique the surgeon is using, your health, and medical history.
Is anesthesia for breast reconstruction different?
Normally general anesthesia is used for breast reconstruction in conjunction with other forms of anesthesia depending on the extent of the surgery. Reconstruction surgery is often more complicated, so anesthesia is planned based on the specific operation being performed and your specific circumstances.
Is breast anesthesia safe?
Yes, modern anesthesia is considered safe for most individuals, but it can carry risks like breathing issues, allergic reactions, or temporary confusion after surgery. It must be administered by an experienced and qualified anesthesiologist. You will need to provide your surgeon with an extensive medical background and share any anesthesia-related incident you may have experienced.
