Breast Augmentation can be performed either under general anesthesia or under local with sedation. Each has its own advantages. When I began private practice 20 plus years ago, I exclusively used general anesthesia. As I have matured, I realized the preference for local with IV sedation, in appropriately selected patients.. Both provide complete amnesia (lack of memory, and sensation during surgery). Both are safe when administered by trained professionals. But local with sedation seems to have less post op nausea (because the patient is not given inhalation gases that cause nausea), no sore throats (because the patient isn't paralyzed on the ventilator), less costs, and quicker recovery. The patients generally are ready to leave the facility in ~20 mins from the time they enter the recovery room.