Are You Contemplating Facial Cosmetic Surgery? Read On To Learn About What Is Trending In Anesthesia

Monday, February 22nd, 2016

Facial aesthetic surgeries such as face lifts, neck lifts, eyelid lifts and rhinoplasties (“nose Jobs”) are among the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures world-wide and also among the most requested procedures at the Center For Plastic Surgery. Men and women of all ages, but especially those “of a certain age,” want their faces to reflect their healthy life-style choices and their zest for living. In short, it’s becoming increasingly desirable to look the way you feel.

Dr. Buchanan is dedicated to patient satisfaction and is nationally recognized as an educator and leader in plastic surgery. He is board-certified and strives to provide his patients with the latest in techniques and care. To that end, a recent article in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, presented the results of a six-year study (2008-2014) of patients who were administered oral sedation combined with local anesthetics when undergoing facial aesthetic surgical procedures. The oral sedation dosages were minimal and included a combination of diazepam, hydrocodone, acetaminophen or simply acetaminophen alone. Thirty minutes following the oral sedation, local anesthesia at the surgical site was administered.

According to study results, the facial aesthetic procedures performed under the combination of these sedations were well and safely tolerated by the 199 men and women in the study. Of course, many variables were considered, including age, gender, past medical history, social history and allergies. The type of procedure and the specific medications administered, along with any major complications were also measured.

In any surgical procedure, the patient’s general heath is an important consideration and pre-surgical selection and counseling are critical in ensuring a satisfactory and safe experience. But the important take-away here is: The study found that in healthy patients, office-based facial plastic surgery procedures can be safely performed under a combination of oral and local anesthetics.

Dr. Buchanan is eager to address your questions and concerns regarding the various facial plastic surgery options he offers. Don’t hesitate to contact our office to schedule a consultation to learn more about this trend in patient safety and comfort: (828) 526-3783.