Cosmetic Surgery Procedures That Can Be Performed Under Twilight Anesthesia

Are you considering plastic surgery but are concerned about having to go under general anesthesia for the procedure? These concerns are valid as general anesthesia does have some downsides including the need for breathing assistance (ventilation) during the procedure, post-procedure nausea, and higher costs.

Fortunately, many of the most popular plastic surgery procedures can be performed using twilight anesthesia. The twilight method uses mild dosages of anesthetic drugs to block pain and reduce anxiety while still leaving the patient responsive. This makes twilight anesthesia both less risky and costly compared to general anesthesia (learn more about the different types of anesthesia).

Here is a list of procedures that can be performed using twilight anesthesia (please note, however, individual needs vary and your physician may not recommend this type of anesthesia for your particular treatment):

Breast Augmentation: One of the most popular plastic surgery procedures, breast augmentation uses breast implants to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. While generally performed under general anesthesia, some breast augmentation procedures can be performed using twilight sedation.

Blepharoplasty: Also known as eyelid surgery, blepharoplasty corrects the eyelids to enhance the entire eye area, making the eyes look younger and vibrant. Depending upon the needs and desired results of each individual patient, eyelid surgery can consist of upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, or a combination of both.

Rhinoplasty: Nose surgery can alter the size and shape of the nose to correct its appearance, creating a more harmonious union between the face and the nose while enhancing facial symmetry. Most rhinoplasty procedures are performed under general anesthesia. However, the use of twilight anesthesia may be possible under certain circumstances.

Facelift Surgery: A facelift is a surgical procedure that makes the face appear more youthful by tightening loose or sagging facial skin and underlying muscles. While there are many different types of facelift techniques, most facelift procedures can be performed using twilight anesthesia.

Chin Augmentation: Chin enhancement procedures use an implant to increase the size of the chin. Chin implants a surgeon the ability to add volume to the lower face for patients who have an unsymmetrical facial profile due to a “weak chin”.

Brow Lift: A brow lift, sometimes referred to as a forehead lift, is a surgical procedure that can correct a low-position, sagging, or “hooded” brow, eliminate deep wrinkles, and restore a more youthful appearance. Brow lifts are relatively non-extensive, making twilight a great anesthetic option.

Cameron Craven MD, FACS is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Craven specializes in the full spectrum of cosmetic surgery including breast augmentation, liposuction and body contouring, facial rejuvenation, laser surgery, eyelid surgery, and rhinoplasty, as well as reconstructive surgery for skin cancers.