For many patients, the idea of surgery brings one major concern: anesthesia. What surprises many people is that not every procedure requires general anesthesia. Advances in surgical techniques, local anesthesia, and patient comfort have made awake surgery an increasingly popular option for the right patient and procedure.
At SARA Surgery, we carefully evaluate whether a patient may benefit from an awake approach while maintaining the highest standards of safety and comfort.
What Is Awake Surgery?
Awake surgery refers to procedures performed using local anesthesia, sometimes combined with light oral or IV sedation. Rather than being fully asleep under general anesthesia, patients remain comfortable while breathing on their own and recovering more quickly afterward.
Many patients appreciate:
- Faster recovery
- Less postoperative nausea
- Reduced downtime
- Avoidance of general anesthesia when appropriate
The key is selecting the right procedure and the right patient.
What Procedures Can Be Performed Awake?
Many cosmetic and reconstructive procedures can be performed safely under local anesthesia.
Common examples include:
- Upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
- Jawline and neck liposuction
- Breast implant removal
- Select breast implant exchanges
- Scar revisions
- Small-area liposuction procedures
Additionally, newer technologies such as the Preserve Breast Augmentation System have expanded opportunities for breast augmentation using local anesthesia or light sedation in carefully selected patients. We are excited to begin offering this option to patients later this year.
Who Makes a Good Candidate?
Not everyone enjoys the idea of being awake during surgery—and that’s okay.
The best candidates are patients who:
- Feel comfortable in medical environments
- Remain calm under stress
- Can tolerate lying flat for up to two hours
- Are confident and relaxed during procedures
- Understand and follow instructions well
Many patients find the experience easier than expected. Once the area is numb, they often spend the procedure listening to music, chatting with the surgical team, or simply relaxing.
Who May Not Be a Good Candidate?
Awake surgery may not be ideal for patients who:
- Experience significant anxiety about medical procedures
- Have difficulty remaining still for extended periods
- Require extensive or lengthy surgery
- Prefer complete unconsciousness during treatment
Patient comfort is always a priority. If awake surgery is not the best fit, other anesthesia options may be more appropriate.
Benefits Beyond Recovery
In addition to a quicker recovery, awake procedures can offer practical advantages:
- Less time spent at the surgery center
- Earlier return to normal activities
- Reduced anesthesia-related side effects
- Lower overall procedural costs in some cases
For the right patient, awake surgery can be an excellent alternative to traditional approaches.
Personalized Surgical Planning at SARA Surgery
At SARA Surgery in Morton Grove, every procedure begins with a thorough consultation. Dr. Sara Dickie evaluates your anatomy, goals, health history, and comfort level to determine the safest and most effective approach.
Whether your procedure is performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, our goal remains the same: exceptional results, maximum safety, and a smooth recovery.
If you’re curious whether an awake procedure might be right for you, schedule a consultation and learn about the options available at SARA Surgery.
