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For 30 years I have done the majority of my abdominoplasty cases with regional anesthesia--epidural. Epidural is familiar already to many women as it is used to facilitate the childbirthing process. Complications are few in skilled hands and there is evidence to suggest that it reduces the risk of deep venous thrombosis, or blood clots, when compared to general anesthesia. Patients can then be sedated to their level of comfort. Recovery has been quick in my outpatient setting with most patients leaving recovery within an hour or so. Anything can be done under local anesthesia of course, even brain surgery, but it is like standing up in a canoe --you can do it, but it may not be the smartest idea.
Over the past 20 years, I've only performed tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) surgeries under general anesthesia with an MD anesthesiologist administered the anesthesia and monitoring the patient to keep the safe and comfortable during this 1-1/2 to 3 hour surgery. Our patients have done well and had a positive experience. Our procedures are not performed in the office but in an accredited outpatient surgery center to optimize safety. Check with your board certified plastic surgeon for his or her preferences.
