Which is better, IV sedation or general anesthesia for full Tummy Tuck & Liposuction?

Every surgeon is going to have their own experience. Surgeons that operate only in the hospital setting will feel that operating in an outpatient facility or private surgical suite is less than ideal. Surgeons that use only anesthesiologists for cosmetic procedures will indicate that using a CRNA for anesthesia is less safe and to be avoided. Surgeons that only use general anesthesia for abdominoplasty surgery will indicate that is can not be done safely or effectively without it. Well, I have a different set of experience than many. And I can say without reservation that abdominoplasty surgery with or without liposuction can be done safely and effectively in an accredited private surgical center using qualified CRNAs with IV sedation or MAC anesthesia. I would argue that the procedure is actually more safe with appropriate IV sedation than with general anesthesia. Patients that undergo abdominoplasty surgery with MAC anesthesia have a much quicker recovery, have less nausea and vomiting complaints, return to normal activities faster, and have lower incidence of DVT and PE. They have no risk of having a sore throat or chipped teeth from the insertion of an endotracheal tube. The rectus muscle plication can be done very effectively by fixating the sutures during exhalation. I have not seen any issues with patient anxiety, increased blood pressure, or higher incidence of bleeding. The skill set required by the CRNA to be effective is much higher and not all CRNAs (or anesthesiologists) are comfortable and effective with MAC anesthesia. But when done well, it is by far my preference. That is not to say that general anesthesia can not be used. It is also a safe and effective option. But it is just that - an option. You will need to choose a surgeon with whom you feel comfortable and then use the type of anesthesia that he/she prefers.

Occasionally spinal anesthesia can be used for an abdominoplasty but the procedure is generally fairly brief and a general anesthetic is required to permit tightening of the fascia of the abdominal wall.

Both choices of anesthesia are safe with an experienced surgeon and anesthesiologist.  I perform all of my abdominoplasties with or without liposuction under sedation with local anesthesia.  It reduces the risk of blood clots ( venous thromboembolism) because the patients leg muscles are not totally relaxed.  The use of local anesthesia during the operation reduces the early postoperative pain, which aids early ambulation, another factor which reduces VTE.  However, the surgeon's personal experience and comfort level out weigh other factor.  You should discuss your concerns with your surgeon.