What are the pros and cons for breast augmentation done under local anesthesia instead of general anesthesia?

Dear nicoyawhen you are trying to have a procedure performed outside the routine, you have to make sure you have something substantial to gain. Breast Augmentation, specially when done in the submuscular plane, is technically easier and more consistent in a patient with relaxed muscles. In patients who are awake or not relaxed, the surgeon has to deal with more issues and this can lead to more discomfort for the patient both in the short and in the long term. I for one can't lay still and not move and shift my position for an hour.The question is why do you want to avoid anesthesia? You should discuss anesthesia, its safety and inherent risks with your surgeon to make sure you are avoiding anesthesia with and for the right reasons.

Thank you for your question.  Though there are surgeons who perform augmentations under local anesthesia, I favor the use of general anesthesia for both patient comfort and safety.  In my opinion, general anesthesia permits a more controlled environment in the operating room, and takes out variability that can occur with the use of only local.