Rhinoplasty - scared of getting put to sleep, what other options other than general anaesthesia?

Question

I am awaiting to go in to get my nose fixed after a trauma to the nose this includes resetting the nasal bones and possibly fixing a deviated septum on the run up to this I am very nervous and have bad anxiety of going under general anesthetic as I have never being under before I smoke at least 20 cigarettes per day will this be a complication this will be done in a hospital setting is there any other way of getting this done without being put to sleep or is this down to the surgeons choice

Andre Aboolian, MD · Answer

The best option is to have general anesthesia, which is very safe.  Thousands of people/patients go under general anesthesia everyday and nothing happens to them.  Your smoking history is not going to be a problem too.  Speak to the anesthesiologist who will be assigned to you to go over your concerns.

Luis Pavajeau, MD · Answer

I think there is no other option for
rhinoplasty but general anesthesia. 
Local and sedation are never as safe as patients imagine. Besides patients
can fell parts of the  surgery.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

In our practice, we perform all rhinoplasty and septoplasty procedures under general anesthesia for patient safety and comfort.  It is extremely important to have a controlled airway,   And to prevent blood from going down into the lungs.  Anesthesia today is extremely safe in the hands of a board certified physician anesthesiologist.  It is also important to stop smoking cigarettes for at least 1 month prior to the surgery so that  you are not coughing before, during,or after the surgery.  In addition smokers have a higher risk of complications such as skin necrosis and infection.

Kouros Azar, MD · Answer

It is much safer to have your rhinoplasty under general anesthesia. There are medications that can be given to help you with your anxiety, but general anesthesia is a must. In terms of your smoking, I strongly recommend that you be completely nicotine free for at least 4-6 weeks prior and post surgery. Smoking can seriously adversely affect your body's ability to heal, causing serious complications. Kindly,Kouros Azar

Robert Graper, MD · Answer

General anesthesia is the way to go especially for this procedure and your smoking. They will have control of your airway and safety will be maximized. You have more chance of having a serious car accident on the way to the hospital than having a problem with anesthesia. Good luck.

Rhinoplasty - scared of getting put to sleep, what other options other than general anaesthesia?

Answers (5)