Tummy Tuck under local or IV sedation? (Photo)

Safety is always the number one priority in surgery. For that reason I perform tummy tucks under general anesthesia. During a consultation each patient's medical history is reviewed and questions answered not only about the surgery and recovery but also any concerns about anesthesia are addressed.

Thank you for your question. You appear to be relatively thin. If you do not require muscle repair, then a tummy tuck can be done under local anesthesia. I use tumescent solution, which is a very dilute solution of lidocaine. This solution is used all the time in cosmetic surgery and is very safe.

Hello BBD4411,
Thank you for your question about the possibility of undergoing a tummy tuck with local or IV sedation, and for providing your picture and history.
Given your specific case, where you don't require rectus abdominis muscle plication and considering your weight of 101 pounds, it is feasible to consider the procedure under local or IV sedation. However, it's important to be aware of lidocaine toxicity, which is a real concern, especially for someone of your weight. There is a limit to the amount of lidocaine that can be safely administered.
In light of this, I recommend opting for IV sedation. This approach is likely to be safer for you and could result in a more comfortable experience with less pain compared to relying solely on local anesthesia. Ensure that your plastic surgeon works with a qualified anesthesiologist or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) to administer the IV sedation.
Ultimately, while a tummy tuck under local or IV sedation is possible in your case, prioritizing safety and comfort is crucial. Discuss these options thoroughly with your plastic surgeon to make the best decision for your situation.
I hope this information assists you in making an informed decision about your tummy tuck procedure. Wishing you a smooth and successful surgery.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen