Can I get a facelift using local anesthesia?

Question:

My sister-in-law came to you last year for a complete face lift. She looks remarkable! I would love a face lift, but I am very sensitive to general anesthesia. In the past, I have been sick for days after being given general. Can I get a facelift using local anesthesia?

Answer:

Although there are centers and physicians who will perform facelift surgery under local anesthesia, I have found that without some sort of sedation, the facelift procedure can be extremely anxiety provoking. Rather than general anesthesia, you may elect to have mild IV sedation for your procedure. You will have significantly less nausea and fatigue from IV sedation for your face lift than you would with general anesthesia. Either way, you will be sure to get anti nausea medications following your procedure.

Posted by Dr. Philip Schoenfeld