Any procedure we offer can be done under local anesthesia alone, or in combination with conscious sedation or MAC (Monitored Anesthesia Care.) However, general anesthesia is also available. Below is a brief overview of the various options.

LOCAL ANESTHESIA

          This involves injecting or infusing a local anesthetic (usually Lidocaine) to numb or freeze a certain area. No effect on level of consciousness, no drowsiness. You are fully awake, but will have little or no sensation in the anesthetized area. No additional fee.

 Typical procedures:  Dermabrasion, mole removal, scar revision, varicose vein removal, liposculpture (limited.)

 MONITORED ANESTHESIA CARE (MAC)-also known as CONSCIOUS SEDATION

          In addition to local anesthesia, we start an IV (intravenous line) and inject certain medications to make you drowsy or sleepy. You are in a “twilight” state, but you can awaken easily, can talk to us at any time, and will breathe on your own. You are much less aware of any discomfort associated with your procedure, and usually will have very little recall of the surgery itself. With this option, you may not drive yourself home. You must bring a driver with you.  Additional fee-$600.

 Typical procedures: Laser skin resurfacing, liposculpture, tummy tuck, eyelid surgery, breast augmentation

 GENERAL ANESTHESIA

          You are completely out and unconscious. You feel nothing and have no awareness of what is happening. You go to sleep, and wake up with the procedure completed. You will need assistance with your breathing. Although usually very safe, this method has more risk than the others. You may have some nausea and feel “out of it” for a while after you wake up. You must bring a driver with you. This option requires the services of an anesthesiologist, and therefore has an additional $750 fee.

Typical procedures: Tummy tuck, breast augmentation, liposculpture, laser skin resurfacing