Tummy Tuck Q&A
94%
WORTH IT RATING
"Worth It Rating" shows the % of consumer reviewers that stated the procedure was "Worth It" or not. See more RealSelf Worth It Ratings or Add Your Review
2,299 Reviews
Tummy Tuckbefore & after photos
View Before and Afters

Average Tummy Tuck Cost: $7,925

Learn about Tummy Tuck

7,728 people and 863 doctors are talking about Tummy Tuck

Get Free Email Updates

General Anesthesia Vs. Epidural for TT

asked 1 year ago by MrsRossIsMe
Latest answer by Robert T. Buchanan, MD
Question viewed 239 times
Tags: anesthesia, epidural, sedation

I went for a consult yesterday with a PS who comes recommended. My husband is a doctor as well, & he knows this guy personally and professionally. During my consult, the PS told me that he operates out of a surgery center and that he does the sx under sedation w/an epidural rather than general anesthesia. He said that he prefers it that way, but if I wanted general, he could also do it. He is highly confident in the staff anesthesiologists at the sx center as well. Any input? Thanks!

4 answers to General Anesthesia Vs. Epidural for TT

+1

Type of anesthesia for Tummy Tuck?

Both general and epidural anesthesia can work very well and be safe in the proper hands (anesthesiologist). I, however, would choose general anesthesia if I were having a tummy tuck.  
Robert T. Buchanan, MD

Highlands Plastic Surgeon
+1

General Anesthesia Vs. Epidural for TT

Just to understand your posting, epidural as an outpatient, HUMMM! I would ask to personally speak to 3 patients who have undergone their tummy tucks with out patient epidural. Also urinary retension is a real issue. I think I would discuss further. From MIAMI Dr. B
Darryl J. Blinski, MD

Miami Plastic Surgeon
+1

Epidural versus general anesthesia for tummy tuck

In the hands of an experienced anesthesiologist who perfroms the epidurals frequently, this can be an excellent option and provide prolonged post-operative pain control. I think it is an excellent option. My only concern with this technique is the greater potential for urinary retention and possible need for a bladder catheter.
Otto Joseph Placik, MD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+1

General anesthesia and epidural are both good options for tummy tuck

The decision about which type of anesthesia to have for an abdominoplasty really comes down to preferences: yours, the anesthesiologist's, and the surgeon's. From a safety point of view there is little difference and you should be comfortable either way.
Richard Baxter, MD

Seattle Plastic Surgeon

Ask a question