For Plastic Surgery Procedures That Go on for 5 or 6 Hours Are You Catherized? Thanks! Kathy

I place a catheter for cases longer than 3-4 hours. Otherwise, patient will have discomfort (even under anesthesia) and probably wet themselves. 

Yes, once you are under anesthesia it is customary for a catheter to be placed in your bladder for surgeries lasting more than 3 hours to prevent distention and also to monitor your urinary output. Typically it is removed at the end of your procedure but in some occasions left in for several hours.

Thank you for your question.  Each surgeon and facility have their own guidelines as to when and how long a patient should be catheterized based on the length of surgery and type of surgery they are having.  You did not mention the type of surgery you are having which may last five or six hours.  If the prospect of a Foley catheter frightens you, you should discuss your fears openly with your plastic surgeon so that he or she can explain their particular protocol to you.