What causes nausea after an awake BBL?

Postoperative nausea and vomiting, or unfortunately, fairly common after surgical procedures. There are a number of variables that increase or affect the chance of having postoperative nausea and vomiting.
The culprits for nausea and vomiting are various medication used for surgery. From what you described high doses of local anesthesia and narcotics used during surgery are the most likely instigating agents. If nitrous oxide is used in, that can add to the risk as well.
General anesthetic agents, especially inhaled general anesthetics have a high correlation with postoperative nausea.
Women tend to have more nausea then men. I typically get a nausea history from all patients during my consultation. Understanding if patients are prone to getting nauseous, easily or how they reacted to certain medication possibly after what medication’s or how much is given.
Many surgeons will give prophylactic medication. I found the combination of Zofran and dexamethasone given well and advance can significantly reduce the incidence of post operative nausea/vomiting. If you have a history of being sensitive and likely to experience nausea, vomiting from car rides, boat rides, previous pregnancies, or after taking certain medication’s, let your doctor know in advance.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD