Anesthesia options for male breast reduction surgery (gynecomastia):
General Anesthesia
Dr. Cruise uses only board certified anesthesiologists to make sure you have the best anesthesia experience possible. The anesthesiologist will discuss with you which type of anesthesia is best for you. There are various options available and he/she will take into consideration your medical history, the type of gyencomastia procedure, and your personal wishes. It’s important to know anesthesia does carry it’s own set of risks aside from the ones associated with the procedure. If you have any concerns, please make sure to discuss them with Dr. Cruise and the anesthesiologist.
Local Anesthesia
If you don’t have a severe gynecomastia case, and you are not combining your procedure with another one, it is possible to perform the procedure under local anesthesia. Local anesthesia is very similar to having dental work done at the dentist. You are given a medication to help calm you before surgery. Then the area being addressed will be numbed using a needle to administer the numbing medication. In most cases you are awake during the procedure, however some people fall in and out of sleep due to the affects of the relaxation medication. Many patients prefer this option over general anesthesia because it’s less expensive, doesn’t carry the the same risks, and tends to be easier to recover post-operatively.
Dr. Cruise will discuss your anesthesia options during your gynecomastia consultation and give his recommendation on which he feel may be the better option for you. If you are a candidate for either, the decision will ultimately be up to you.
Where will the procedure take place?
If your gynecomastia surgery is performed under general anesthesia, it will take place at the Newport Beach Center for Surgery. This is an accredited outpatient surgery center dedicated to assisting patients undergoing cosmetic surgery.
If your gynecomastia surgery will be performed under local anesthesia, it will take place at Dr. Cruise’s office, in his dedicated procedure room.
Prior to surgery, you may be asked to do the following:
- Obtain a medical clearance from your primary doctor or specialist, if there is something questionable with your medical history.
- Have blood work done at a lab.
- Stop taking certain medications which can cause increased bleeding and/or start taking medications or herbal supplements known to optimize healing.
- Stop smoking for several weeks prior to your surgery date.
- Sign consent forms and other important paperwork pertaining to your procedure, as well as complete the necessary forms for the surgery center.
- Purchase post surgical items to use during recovery, including a post-surgical garment, which is an absolute must to obtain optimal results.
Schedule A Consultation
Dr. Cruise and staff will advise you of their specific requirements, so you can properly prepare for your gynecomastia surgery and ensure the best possible outcome.
