When preparing for surgery, especially procedures like tummy tucks or breast augmentations, many patients at bŏdze have questions about general anesthesia. It’s completely natural to feel uncertain about being “put under,” and that’s why we’re here: to make sure you feel informed, comfortable, and safe every step of the way.
What Is General Anesthesia?
General anesthesia is a medically controlled state of unconsciousness used to block pain and awareness during surgery. While you’re under anesthesia, your body is relaxed and you won’t feel or remember anything about the procedure.
How Is It Administered?
Anesthesia can be tailored to each patient and procedure. In most cases, medications are delivered through an IV and anesthetic gas, but your anesthesia plan may vary based on your medical history and specific needs.
You’ll be in the expert care of a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. Their role is to manage your anesthesia and monitor your vital signs throughout surgery, so your body stays safe and supported while Dr. Khairalla focuses on your transformation.
Before Surgery: Your Pre-Op Visit
A few weeks before your surgery, you’ll come in for a comprehensive pre-operative consultation. During this important visit, we’ll review your full medical history, discuss any current medications or supplements you’re taking, and walk you through how to prepare for anesthesia. This includes detailed instructions on when to stop eating or drinking, what medications to adjust or pause, and how to optimize your home environment for a smooth and comfortable recovery.
As part of your pre-operative appointment, we’ll also take necessary bloodwork and conduct any additional testing your procedure may require. These steps help us ensure your safety and tailor your care to your unique needs.
This visit is also the perfect time for you to ask any questions, whether about the procedure itself, anesthesia options, risks, or recovery expectations. We take the time to listen and address every concern so that you feel fully informed, confident, and at ease as your surgery day approaches.
The Day of Surgery: What to Expect
When you arrive on the day of surgery, you’ll be greeted by our warm and attentive team in a serene, state-of-the-art setting designed to help you feel calm and supported.
Here’s what the process looks like:
- Check-in and prep: You’ll change into a gown and go over your procedure one more time with the team.
- Anesthesia review: Our nurse anesthetist will meet with you personally to walk you through the anesthesia plan and answer any last-minute questions.
- Administration and monitoring: Your anesthesia will be administered in a controlled and comfortable way, customized to your needs. Throughout the procedure, we will closely monitor your breathing, heart rate, oxygen levels, and more.
We’re with you every step of the way.
Britni Parrott
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
During Surgery
While you’re safely under anesthesia, Dr. Khairalla performs your procedure with the precision and care that defines the bŏdze experience. Every decision is guided by your goals and your natural proportions to achieve results that feel balanced, refined, and truly yours.
Waking Up and Recovery
As the anesthesia wears off, you’ll gently wake up in our recovery suite. Our team will be by your side, monitoring your comfort and making sure your transition out of anesthesia is smooth and supported.
It’s normal to feel groggy or a bit disoriented upon waking up and for the remainder of the day. You’ll be given time to wake up fully, and we’ll provide detailed post-op instructions to you and your support person before you go home.
Frequently Asked Questions About General Anesthesia
Who will be administering my anesthesia?
Your anesthesia will be administered and managed by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. They work closely with Dr. Khairalla and the surgical team to ensure your safety and comfort from start to finish.
Will I be completely asleep?
Yes. General anesthesia places you in a controlled, unconscious state so that you won’t feel, hear, or remember anything during your surgery.
How is the anesthesia given?
In most cases, anesthesia is delivered through an IV paired with anesthetic gas. However, your plan may be tailored based on your health history and what’s best for your body.
How long will it take to wake up?
You’ll begin to wake up shortly after surgery ends. Most patients feel groggy or disoriented at first, but that typically fades by the end of the day. A nurse from your surgical team will be with you the entire time to monitor and support you.
Is general anesthesia safe?
At bŏdze, your anesthesia care is overseen by an expert team dedicated to patient safety and comfort.
Will I feel sick afterward?
Some patients feel a bit nauseous or have a sore throat after waking up. These are normal and usually go away quickly. Let us know if you’ve experienced nausea with anesthesia in the past, we can take steps to help prevent it.
What should I do to prepare?
Before your surgery, we’ll provide clear instructions about eating, drinking, medications, and anything else specific to your procedure. Following these carefully helps ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
General anesthesia can feel like the most unknown part of the surgical process but at bŏdze, our approach is simple, clear, and patient-first. Every plan is customized, every question is welcome, and every detail is handled with care.
