Anesthesia at the Plastic Surgery Office: Do’s and Don’ts
- Jen Overton
- Jan 27, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 21, 2025
As the popularity and demand for cosmetic procedures continues to rise, many plastic surgeons now offer the convenience of performing surgeries in their office surgical suites. While some practices are equipped for sedation only, others may provide a fully outfitted operating room with anesthesia capabilities similar to those found in hospitals. Understanding what to expect from anesthesia during your procedure can help ease any apprehensions and ensure a smoother experience. To cover your bases, here’s a guide to review before your surgery day, Anesthesia at the Plastic Surgery Office: Do’s and Don’ts
Want to check out your plastic surgeon's professional background before committing to a procedure in their office? You absolutely should. Click on the image below to read How Can I Know that My Plastic Surgeon is Safe?
What to Expect on Surgery Day
On the day of your surgery, you will arrive at the office and meet with a nurse and the anesthesia provider. Here's a brief overview of the process:
1. Changing into a Gown: Upon arrival, you will be escorted to a private changing room or bathroom and asked to change into a surgical gown. This ensures your comfort and surgical access for your procedure.
2. Preoperative Interview: Next, the anesthesia provider will conduct a preoperative interview to discuss your medical history, any medications you are currently taking, and your anesthesia plan. This is a crucial step in ensuring your safety.
Curious about the different types of anesthesia? Click the image below to read What Is Anesthesia? Understanding the Types and Their Safety.
3. IV Placement: An intravenous (IV) catheter will be placed in your arm or hand. This will allow for the administration of IV fluids and medications before, during and after your procedure, including anesthesia medications.
4. Consultation with the Surgeon: Before proceeding directly to surgery, you will meet with your surgeon for final markings and to discuss the surgical plan. Hopefully your questions will have been answered before the day of surgery, but if there are any last minute questions, now is the time to ask.
5. Transition to the Operating Area: Next, you'll walk to the operating room where monitors will be placed and you will breathe supplemental oxygen through a nasal cannula or a mask.
6. Induction of Anesthesia: Depending on your anesthesia plan, the provider will administer IV medications that may make you feel drowsy or lead you to fall asleep comfortably.
Questions about general anesthesia? Click on the image below to read General Anesthesia: The Patient Experience from Start to Finish.
7. Monitoring: Throughout the procedure, the anesthesia provider will monitor your vital signs and overall well-being, ensuring your safety at all times. Rest assured, your provider will diligently watch over you while you sleep.
8. Recovery: After the surgery, you will wake up in the recovery area, where the staff will continue to monitor you. Plastic surgeons often utilize a lot of local anesthesia (numbing medications) at the surgical sites, but if needed, pain medication can be administered. You will be given something to drink and possibly a light snack, like a cracker if you're feeling hungry.
9. Going Home: Once you’re stable and ready, you will be discharged to go home with post-operative instructions from anesthesia and the surgeon. Remember that recovery isn't over just because the surgery ended and you woke up. Healing begins now.
Curious about how many times a person can undergo anesthesia? How much is too much? Click the image below to read How Many Times Is It Safe to Have Anesthesia?
Do’s and Don’ts
Navigating the preoperative phase effectively can significantly impact your surgical experience. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do’s
- Do Follow NPO Guidelines: NPO (nil per os) means nothing by mouth. It’s crucial to follow your provider’s instructions about fasting before surgery, usually for at least 8 hours. This helps reduce the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.
- Do Disclose Your Medication: Be honest about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some may need to be temporarily discontinued to avoid complications.
- Do Arrive Prepared: Ensure you arrive on time and bring any necessary documents. This helps the surgical team stay on schedule and ensures a smooth process.
- Do Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your anesthesia provider any questions regarding the anesthesia plan or discuss any concerns you may have. This is also a good time to clarify any aspects of the surgical procedure with your surgeon.
Don’ts
- Don’t Wear Lotions or Jewelry: On the day of your procedure, avoid wearing lotions, makeup, and jewelry. These can interfere with monitoring equipment and increase the risk of infection.
- Don’t Ignore Your Health History: If you have a history of allergies, personal or family history of reactions to anesthesia, or any medical conditions, communicate these to your anesthesia provider as adjustments to the anesthesia plan may need to occur.
- Don’t Drink Alcohol or Use Recreational Drugs: Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs in the days leading up to your surgery. Both can affect your body’s response to anesthesia and recovery (healing).
- Don’t Rush the Process: Take your time to understand the anesthesia process. Feeling informed and comfortable can help alleviate anxiety and improve your overall surgical experience.
Still really worried about having anesthesia? Click the article below to read How to Overcome the Fear of Anesthesia: Tips for a Better Surgery Experience
Wrapping It Up
Navigating anesthesia at a plastic surgeon’s office can be a straightforward process when you know what to expect. By following these do's and don’ts, you can help ensure a safe and successful surgery. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare providers to address any concerns or questions.
Remember, prepared patients have better outcomes.
Want to learn more about staying safe while under anesthesia? Click the image below.
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Still have questions about anesthesia? Leave a comment below, it may help others (not too personal, of course) or send me a private message and I will try to to help.
**Information provided is intended as general healthcare information for the public and should be used as a guide. This information should not be substituted for the specific personal advice recommended by your own healthcare team who are familiar with your specific health history.*
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