Q: Dr. Langdon, I’m considering a facelift, but I’m nervous about general anesthesia. Is it always required?
A: I’m glad you asked that question. As a matter of fact, with the “minimal incision” facelift procedure that we perform at The Langdon Center in Guilford, CT, we use only local anesthesia. It turns out that anesthesia is a very important consideration when planning a facelift, as well as any other type of cosmetic or plastic surgery. Recovery is much quicker if local anesthesia is used, because this option minimizes bruising and swelling. In fact, most people look pretty good within the week. When compared to general anesthesia, local anesthesia is much safer, whether you are considering a facelift, a browlift or an eyelid lift.