Do many doctors do arm lifts in-office under local anesthetic?

Question

Do you get as good of a result or does it matter? What are the advantages or disadvantages of doing it in the office?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the possibility of performing arm lifts under local anesthesia in an office setting. There are five different types of arm lifts: the mini arm lift or crescent lift, modified incision, modified longitudinal incision, longitudinal incision, and an incision extending from the armpit to the wrist. While most plastic surgeons typically perform these procedures in an operating room under general anesthesia, it is indeed feasible to do almost any procedure under local anesthesia. However, the ability to perform a procedure under local anesthesia does not necessarily mean it will yield optimal results.
Most plastic surgeons concur that better results are usually achieved under general anesthesia, allowing for a tighter closure. The advantages of undergoing an arm lift under general anesthesia include not feeling any discomfort during the procedure and achieving superior results. Additionally, general anesthesia can maximize sterility and minimize the risk of infection.
On the other hand, the disadvantage of having the procedure performed under local anesthesia in an office is the discomfort from the needle sticks for numbing medication. Furthermore, many plastic surgeons believe that the results are generally better with general anesthesia.
I hope this answers your question regarding the advantages and disadvantages of having a mini arm lift, long arm lift, or crescent arm lift performed under local or general anesthesia. Good luck in your decision-making process.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Yannis Alexandrides, MD, FACS · Answer

That decision should be made between you and your surgeon. I personally find that the arms are very difficult to numb under local anaesthesia. However, if your Doctor has a way of blocking the nerves to this area, it might be a reasonable option. The most obvious disadvantage of local anaesthetic could be that you may experience more discomfort during the procedure, but the advantages are that local anaesthesia carries considerably less side effects in relation to your health and recovery.

Steven H. Wiener, MD · Answer

There are several types of brachioplasties, or arm lifts.  This may also be combined with liposuction.  Depending on what you will need, helps determine the type of anesthesia you receive.  Brachioplasties can be performed under local anesthesia, or with IV sedation, or general anesthesia.  Discuss your options with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You will find that there are a variety of different types of anesthesia that can be utilized during arm lifting surgery. I  personally perform tummy tuck surgery in an out patient surgery center, and under general anesthesia  supervised by Board Certified Anesthesiologists.  I believe that this type of anesthesia provides for a comfortable/safe/immobile environment to  perform the procedure. 
I hope this helps.

Do many doctors do arm lifts in-office under local anesthetic?

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