Breast Augmentation: Anesthesia and Facility Standards

By Dr. Nico Ferariu, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

When considering breast augmentation, understanding the role of anesthesia and the importance of facility accreditation is crucial for a safe and successful surgery. It is essential to ensure that both the type of anesthesia used and the surgical facility adhere to the highest standards for an effective procedure.

Anesthesia Options for Breast Augmentation Surgery

The type of anesthesia chosen is influenced by various factors including the patient’s medical history, the duration of the surgery and individual preferences. A board-certified anesthesiologist and a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) are always present to monitor the patient’s vital signs and adjust anesthesia levels throughout the procedure. Before having surgery, you will discuss which anesthetic is most suitable for you. This is called a preoperative assessment.

For a breast augmentation surgery, anesthesia is a critical component. According to UCLA Health, there are four main types of anesthesia used during a surgery. Even so, when it comes to a breast augmentation operation, doctors usually rely on one of these two:

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is used to ensure comfort and safety during the operation. It is administered by a qualified anesthesiologist, which allows the patient to be completely asleep, feeling no pain and having no memory of the surgery.

”Twilight” Sedation

T wilight sedation is a combination of local anesthetic with sedation. During twilight sedation, the patient is given an anesthetic to numb a specific part of the body and a sedative to make them feel drowsy, but still alert and responsive. The sedative allows the patient to fall into a deep state of mental and physical calm, although they are never completely unconscious. This means that they can feel pressure and movement, but no pain in the area where the local sedation has been administered.

Accreditation of Surgical Facilities for a Safe Breast Augmentation

The quality of the facility where the breast augmentation is performed is equally important. Accredited facilities are evaluated by professional healthcare organizations to ensure they meet rigorous safety and quality standards. Usually, these facilities must adhere to strict guidelines when it comes to:

Sanitation;
Emergency preparedness;
Staff qualifications;
Equipment.

Accreditation bodies, such as the European Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (ECAHO), certify that a facility provides a safe environment for surgeries. Choosing an accredited facility assures patients that the surgical center adheres to the best practices in patient care.

Choosing the Right Facility and Anesthesia Team

Patients should feel empowered to ask about the anesthesia team’s qualifications and the facility’s accreditation status during their consultation. This information provides additional reassurance about the surgeon’s commitment to patient safety and high-quality care.

In conclusion, when planning a breast augmentation, the qualifications of the anesthesiologist and the accreditation of the facility are as crucial as the expertise of the plastic surgeon. Ensuring all components meet established medical standards can significantly enhance the safety and success of your procedure.

What Do We Offer at Nord?

NORD Hospital is the most modern and well-equipped hospital in Bucharest. We are an accredited facility, starting with qualified anesthesiologists or nurses and we together create a safe environment. I am happy to offer my patients an excellent choice for their breast augmentation and ready to help them make educated decisions to suit their needs.

This article provides a brief overview and patients are encouraged to discuss these aspects in detail with Dr. Ferariu, during the consultation process, to address any specific concerns or needs.

Schedule an appointment here.