Breast implant removal and lift under local or general anaesthesia - which one is safer?

Question

Hello. I thinking to do my breast implants removal without replacement of a new implants next year with lift. I have done three surgeries before in 2019/2022 under general anaesthesia. However, surgeons told me it will be perform under local anaesthesia which I've never tried before. I am Constantly worrying about death during the surgery next year. It been 2years now I am worried about death/coma or won't wake up. I am very worried something will go wrong.Which anaesthesia is safe? I smoke too

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

There are three main types of anesthesia: local anesthesia, regional anesthesia, and general anesthesia. Local anesthesia numbs a small area of the body and is often used for minor procedures. Regional anesthesia involves numbing a larger area of the body, such as an arm or a leg, and may be used for more complex procedures. General anesthesia involves putting the patient to sleep and is typically used for major surgeries.

The type of anesthesia used for your breast implant removal surgery will depend on various factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, your overall health, and your medical history. Your surgeon and anesthesiologist will work together to determine the most appropriate type of anesthesia for you.

Smoking can increase the risk of complications during surgery and anesthesia, such as lung problems and difficulty breathing. It's important to quit smoking before surgery to reduce the risk of these complications. Ideally, you should quit smoking at least six weeks before surgery to allow your body to heal and reduce the risk of complications.

It's understandable to have concerns and fears about surgery and anesthesia, but it's important to discuss your concerns with your surgeon and anesthesiologist. They can address your concerns and answer any questions you may have. They can also provide you with information about the risks and benefits of the procedure and anesthesia, as well as any alternative options that may be available.

Ultimately, the decision about which type of anesthesia to use will depend on your specific situation and needs. Your healthcare providers will work with you to develop a personalized plan that is safe and effective for you.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. It's completely understandable to feel anxious about surgery and anesthesia, especially if you’ve had previous experiences with general anesthesia. It’s important to address your concerns, and I'll try to give you a clear understanding of the differences between general and local anesthesia and how each can affect your surgery, recovery, and safety. Please see the video attached below to answer your question in detail. It’s still important to communicate openly with your surgeon and anesthesiologist to ensure all your specific concerns are addressed. If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to ask for more detailed information or even consider getting a second opinion to ensure you feel as confident and informed as possible about the anesthesia choice.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Removal of breast implants, intact or ruptured, may have positive implications if patients are symptomatic. A constellation of symptoms associated with breast implant illness, and autoimmune disease are considered when treating patients who have breast implants and are concerned about foreign body reaction. In our office, we begin this journey with a consideration of symptoms and exclusion of obvious autoimmune problems. In many of our patients, en bloc removal of breast implants with capsulectomy is important and beneficial. Further clinical evidence about breast implant illness is evolving and will continue to guide treatment. I would suggest removal if there is a possibility of foreign body reaction.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear TokiyoC,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, implant removal can be done under local anesthesia but general anesthesia is a better option for lift. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If you are wanting implant removal with a lift you will need to consider general anesthesia.  This is for your comfort and safety.  You will need to be nicotine free several weeks prior to surgery as well as during your recovery.  Nicotine can negatively impact your healing.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns about anesthesia risk with a board certified plastic surgeon.

Sean T. Lille, MD · Answer

Dear TokiyoC,   I prefer using general anesthesia with my patients. It is very safe with a board certified anesthesiologist at your head and the technology today picks up the slightest changes in blood pressure etc. even before a human would. Statistically about 6 persons a day die from general anesthesia, 106 people a day die from car accidents and 1300 people a day die from smoking. I would be more afraid of the smoking.

Breast implant removal and lift under local or general anaesthesia - which one is safer?

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Answer: Breast implant removal and lift

Answer: Breast implant removal and lift

Answer: Anesthesia

Answer: Anesthesia

Answer: General Anesthesia

Answer: General Anesthesia

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Breast implant removal and lift under local or general anaesthesia - which one is safer?

Answers (12)

Answer: Breast implant removal and lift

Answer: Breast implant removal and lift

Answer: Anesthesia

Answer: Anesthesia

Answer: General Anesthesia

Answer: General Anesthesia

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.