Is there a 'better' choice? Twilight vs general anesthesia for a 'skin pinch' procedure?

Question

About 6 weeks ago I had a lower blepharoplasty with a transconjunctival Incision. At a follow up appointment today, my surgeon suggested a skin pinch to take care of some excess skin that had not 'tightened up'. This procedure is either performed under twilight or general anesthesia. I am free to choose which, and the cost is the same. Is there a better choice to make here?

David S. Felder, MD · Answer

This type of procedure can be performed using only local anesthesia, at most twilight. We never use general anesthesia for any kind of eyelid surgery. I would prefer local if your surgeon is willing to do it this way.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

While general anesthesia is considered safe, it is not perfectly safe.  Things can happen.  Intravenous sedation performed for "twilight" anesthesia is a level where you are not aware but do not require a endotracheal tube to maintain your airway.  It is generally less stressful to the body.  I agree with others that it is possible to do this type of procedure under local anesthesia.  I would caution you about a skin pinch.  These often are not a skin pinch but a skin and muscle pinch that results in a weakening of the lower eyelid with post operative compromise of the lower eyelid.

Brian K. Machida, MD, FACS · Answer

For a simple procedure, why go the route of general or twilight anesthesia? A local anesthetic with oral sedation should do fine.

Andrew Campbell, MD · Answer

I'm not sure I'd recommend either. A skin pinch is easy to do in the office setting using local anesthetic. No need for the inconvenience or cost of going to an operating room. Sutures are usually removed in just a few days.Andrew Campbell, M.D.Facial Rejuvenation SpecialistQuintessa Aesthetic Centers

Benjamin Caughlin, MD, FACS · Answer

the less meds the better. I often do this procedure with oral meds only. Patients  do exceptionally well and the recovery is much quicker. Hope this helps,Best of luck,DrC

Is there a 'better' choice? Twilight vs general anesthesia for a 'skin pinch' procedure?

Answers (9)

Answer: Skin pinch anesthesia

Answer: Skin pinch anesthesia

Answer: Safety first

Answer: Safety first

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Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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

Is there a 'better' choice? Twilight vs general anesthesia for a 'skin pinch' procedure?

Answers (9)

Answer: Skin pinch anesthesia

Answer: Skin pinch anesthesia

Answer: Safety first

Answer: Safety first

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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