Dr. Elizabeth Fox Addresses Concerns about Anesthesia in Cosmetic Surgery

PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 09, 2012 (Press-News.org) For many patients, the thought of going under anesthesia is as worrisome as the thought of undergoing a surgical procedure. While there are certainly risks associated with all types of anesthesia, Dr. Elizabeth Fox explains that it is important for patients to understand their options. She describes the three different types of anesthesia that are available and addresses concerns regarding the risks associated with sedatives.

According to The Wall Street Journal, patient misinformation pertaining to anesthesia and its risks is a common issue. This is a major problem, as it can lead them to choose an anesthetic that may not be in their best interest: "Many patients believe local anesthesia is entirely safe and riskless, when it fact even local anesthesia has its own set of concerns patients should address before a procedure. When patients undergo local anesthesia, they are receiving lidocaine in high concentrations to a specific area within a short period of time. The side effects of this fast absorption rate through the blood stream can be toxic. There is the potential for liver damage, liver failure, breathing irregularities, cardiac arrhythmias, and other complications."

Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani, who is quoted in the article, asserts that all patients should be educated regarding anesthesia before entering the operating room. Dr. Fox agrees.

"The administration of anesthesia is equally as important as the work that the surgeon performs," asserts Dr. Elizabeth Fox. "There are three different types of anesthesia, including local, intravenous sedation, and general anesthesia. Local anesthesia with oral medication appeals to many patients; however, the risks involved with this choice have not been shown to be significantly lower than those associated with general anesthesia. Intravenous sedation, commonly used during colonoscopies and plastic surgery procedures, presents patients with a lower risk than other forms of anesthesia. The medication given to patients through the IV is out of their system within 90 minutes, whereas oral medications may take between 12 and 24 hours to leave the body." Dr. Fox notes that the patients who choose intravenous sedation are often more alert when they awaken. Additionally, they are ready to walk quickly and, generally, experience a better recovery than those who chose general anesthesia.

Both Dr. Fox and Dr. Trevisani encourage patients to seek the services of a board-certified anesthesiologist. Specialized doctors, these anesthesiologists are trained to administer anesthesia and monitor patients for any signs of adverse reactions.

ABOUT:

Located in Naples, Florida, Dr. Elizabeth Fox is a plastic surgeon. Through her practice of medicine, Dr. Elizabeth Fox provides her patients with comprehensive consultations and a long list of cosmetic procedures, such as wrinkle treatments, nonsurgical facelifts, topical treatments, breast augmentation, lip rejuvenation, and more. Dr. Elizabeth Fox is devoted to providing her patients with the highest quality of care and continually strives to enhance the offerings of her practice.

Website: http://drfoxplasticsurgery.com