All About Anesthesia

The information in this section is made available through the generous support of Dr. Grant Stevens.

Why Do I Need to See My Anesthesiologist?

Typically, you will speak with your anesthesiologist before your surgery. Both your anesthesiologist and your plastic surgeon should be board-certified medical doctors.

You might meet your anesthesiologist for the first time in person at the hospital or surgical center before your surgery, and some anesthesiologists do their pre-ops over the phone a few days or the night before your surgery.

Your anesthesiology pre-op is an excellent opportunity for you to address your fears and concerns and for them to ask you for your medical history and develop a relationship with you.

If you have a history of being ill after anesthesia, have a fear of being ill, or have a fear of being put under anesthesia,  this is the perfect time for you to ask what can be done to calm your stomach or nerves. Also you should address any specific issues such as dentures, bridge work, or prosthetics.

The anesthesiologist will also remind you to take nothing by mouth (liquid, medications, or food) after a specific time the day or night before your surgery. This is extremely important. We can also help you with a meal plan for the day before surgery to help you eliminate nausea and vomiting sometimes associated with anesthesia while in recovery.

Use this time to calm your fears. A good anesthesiologist will take the time to address your concerns and instill confidence in you. Also know that your surgeon has to present you as 'fit for surgery' according to all state and federal rules. If you've been approved for surgery it means that you have met the stringent requirements for a safe and successful surgery.

Anesthesia and Anxiety

Most of us have anxiety over anesthesia, which is understandable. We worry that we won't come back, and we worry that when we awaken we'll be sick to our stomachs and feel terrible. We have welcomed back every single member who has had surgery in the last 15 years, and we can help you avoid nausea and vomiting with the best diet the day before surgery.

Here's a link about anesthesia that may help calm your fears, as well as help you you feel more prepared for surgery.

How Anesthesia Works
http://www.howstuffworks.com/anesthesia.htm