I am 62 years old; would local anesthetic be safe for me?

Question:

I was told I could have a facelift while only under sedation and local anesthetic. I am 62 years old; would this sort of anesthetic be safe for me?

Answer:

The type of anesthesia that is used in facelift surgery varies depending upon several factors. One factor is the ability of the patient to tolerate procedures with mild sedation and local anesthesia. The second factor in facelift surgery is the type of facelift that is going to be performed. Finally, the surgeon’s comfort and the anesthesiologists experience in the use of deeper sedation along with local anesthesia will also determine which kind of anesthesia will be right for you during your facelift. I offer my patients mild IV sedation and local anesthesia when performing mini facelift procedures but, will generally choose to have my patients completely asleep for full facelift and necklift surgery. The safety of anesthesia during facelift surgery is of critical importance and although age 62 is not particularly old, but, preexisting medical conditions will also determine your suitability for any type of anesthesia given

Posted by Dr. Philip Schoenfeld