Plastic Surgery Procedures Done Under Local Anesthesia

Plastic Surgery Procedures Done Under Local Anesthesia

Benefits of having a procedure done under local anesthesia

Local anesthesia ensures that the patient is awake and able to interact with their surgeon throughout the process, allowing them to feel comfortable, in control, and get some assurance that everything is going as planned. 

It also reduces potential risks associated with general anesthesia while providing adequate pain relief. Additionally, local anesthesia tends to be less expensive since it requires fewer medications and supplies, making any procedure more accessible while maintaining a high level of quality care.

Different types of procedures that can be done under local anesthesia

Various plastic and cosmetic surgery procedures can be done under local anesthesia and range from minor cosmetic enhancements to more complex reconstructive surgeries. Some of these are listed below:

• Upper Eyelid Surgery or an Upper blepharoplasty helps to reduce or eliminate signs of aging, such as drooping and sagging on the upper eyelids.
• Brow Lift to reduce the signs of aging in the forehead area by lifting drooping eyebrows, smoothing wrinkles, and improving the overall appearance of the forehead.
• Whether you want a subtle change or a complete transformation, Dr. Lugo is focused on providing you with the highest quality of care to achieve the best possible outcomes. Visit our website to request a consultation, call us at 706-715-6364, or email us for more information.   Facelifts can also be performed under local anesthesia; this operation helps tighten loose tissue on the face and reduces signs of aging. Many patients who are fearful of anesthesia or are high risk due to other health problems elect to undergo an awake face lift when they would have avoided a procedure otherwise. Since they are not sedated or put to sleep, they are able to breathe on their own (no need for a breathing tube or anesthesia machine). In addition, remaining awake during a face lift and neck lift allows their bodies to remain physiologically stable, maintaining their normal blood pressure through the procedure. This decreases the risk of acute accumulation of blood under the skin (hematoma formation) during and right after the procedure. While it seems odd to be on the operating table and fully awake as the surgeon is making incisions in front of you, it is one of the safest alternatives to general anesthetic.
• Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL) removes excess fat deposits from certain areas of the body and creates a more balanced look overall.
• Labiaplasty decreases the size of the labia minora. Some of the reasons why females have enlarged labia include genetics, childbirth and aging. Females who suffer from an enlarged labia have difficulty with hygiene, exercise and sexual activity among other things.
• Skin resurfacing. While most skin resurfacing procedures are not considered a surgery, they are a powerful and effective set of cosmetic procedures in which topical numbing is used to mitigate any pain. Skin resurfacing techniques such as dermabrasion, lasers, chemical peels or microneedling can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of aging to restore a youthful glow.

Risks associated with local anesthesia

While lower than general anesthesia, there are still potential risks associated with having a plastic surgery procedure done under local anesthesia. These include unexpected changes in the level of consciousness, inconsistent levels of numbness and decreased sensitivity, rare but serious nerve injury, or bleeding that may require further medical intervention. 

Patients should discuss any concerns they have with their plastic surgeon before undergoing a procedure under local anesthesia to ensure that both expectations and safety precautions are taken before proceeding. 

It is critical to ensure that both the patient and the surgeon have discussed all of the possible risks involved so that both parties can feel comfortable going forward with the procedure.

How to choose a qualified plastic surgeon for your procedure

Choosing a qualified plastic surgeon in Georgia is essential for a successful and safe plastic surgery experience. Begin by researching board-certified surgeons who specialize in the procedure you want, such as minimally invasive techniques. Ensure your surgeon has a strong track record of results and reviews from past patients. During consultations, ask about their experience, qualifications, and approach to safety. Finding the right surgeon in Georgia can make all the difference, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your plastic surgery journey.

When opting for plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery, it is essential to choose a qualified plastic surgeon for a procedure done under local anesthesia. It’s also important to properly vet the person and the practice before you commit to the procedure.



• Talk to your primary doctor or trusted medical advisor about any questions and ask them for referrals.
• Research your prospective surgeons online — read reviews of their practice, check out their credentials and experience, and verify certifications.
• Consider talking with past patients (if you know any!) that have undergone the same or similar procedures.
• It’s essential that you feel comfortable with the rapport between you and your healthcare provider, so if needed, schedule a follow up consultation to ensure they are the right fit for your needs.

About Us

Are you looking for a top-rated plastic surgeon in Athens Georgia who understands your unique and specific needs? Dr. Liana M. Lugo, founder, and medical director of Lugo Plastic Surgery, is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has helped countless patients achieve their aesthetic goals. 

As the only board-certified female plastic surgeon in Oconee County, Georgia, Dr. Lugo utilizes a woman’s perspective and qualities to help her patients achieve excellent outcomes.