Do They Have to Put a Tube Down Your Throat when You Are Having a Breast Lift and a Tummy Tuck?

Many (most) of our breast lift and tummy tuck ("mommy makeover") patients do not have an endotracheal tube. For non-obese patients with good neck mobility, no gastric reflux, no airway concerns, and no need to roll or reposition the patient during surgery (say, for liposuction of the hips or thighs), our CRNAs (certified registered nurse anesthetists) are very comfortable and experienced in use of laryngeal mask anesthesia (LMA). LMAs do not go through the vocal cords into the trachea, and still provide excellent airway access, control, and safety. But, not for everyone! Re-read the partial list above.

This is a question best asked of your plastic surgeon first, and then your anesthesia provider. Safety is the primary concern, not a minor sore throat (if even that) from an endotracheal tube. I always allow my anesthesia provider to make that assessment and "call." But you WILL require a general anesthetic to perform these surgeries properly. TIVA is my best recommendation for the least post-op nausea and vomiting risk, and the smoothest and most comfortable wake-up. Click on the web reference link below for more information about this and please don't worry about the choice of airway mangement devices. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Anesthesia for a mommy makeover (breast lift with/without implants and a tummy tuck) is most commonly done with general anesthesia.  This is the type where a tube is put down your throat, but this is the safest.  More importantly, the surgery may take 4-6 hours and any type of anesthesia other than general may put you at risk for aspiration.  In my extensive experience of performing mommy makeovers, I always use general anesthesia and my patients have done great afterward.  I also only work with board certified anesthesiologists for this type of surgery.  Therefore, I would highly recommend that you get general anesthesia for your mommy makeover.