For your comfort, we offer several different anesthesia options including local anesthetic, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and IV sedation. Prior to your procedure, our team will review your medical history and discuss your concerns to determine the best type of anesthetic to use for your surgery.
Local Anesthetic
Local anesthetic is a medication that causes the absence of pain sensation and is injected into the surgical site prior to the procedure. There are no eating restrictions prior to the use of local anesthetic and you are able to drive yourself home after your procedure. The surgical site will remain numb for several hours following surgery, which will help manage your pain and comfort.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Nitrous Oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is administered through a mask placed on your nose and inhaled during surgery. Nitrous oxide must also be used in conjunction with local anesthetic, as it does not numb the site. Inhalation of the gas has a calming effect and will help you to remain relaxed during surgery. Unfortunately, most insurance companies do not consider administration of nitrous oxide as a covered benefit, therefore this procedure is considered a self-pay expense.
IV Sedation
IV sedation is a series of medications administered through a small IV port inserted into either your arm or hand. IV sedation is NOT a general anesthetic, and is considered a conscious sedation. You will feel relaxed, recall little about your experience, and many times feel as if you were asleep. If you choose IV sedation, you should have nothing to eat or drink for 6 hours prior to your surgery and have someone remain present in the office to drive you home. You should also plan to have someone stay with you for the remainder of the day as the medications can remain active in your system for 24 hours. Every insurance company has different guidlines that determine if IV sedation is a covered benefit on the policy, therefore we recommend that you contact your insurance company directly to discuss your financial liability.