The Twilight Zone...

Created on 03rd August 2008

We investigate twilight surgery - the general anaesthetic alternative

A pioneering procedure developed and used extensively in the USA is now available at MySpa Clinics. Twilight surgery is a highly specialised sedation that allows patients undergoing cosmetic surgery to remain conscious and pain free.

Dr Roy Saleh, medical director at MySpa Clinic says, "I am delighted that we are able to provide our clients with the choice of having twilight surgery. Twilight surgery offers a safe and effective alternative to general anaesthetic. It is an ideal procedure for those that are nervous about going under general anaesthetic, and many clients find that twilight surgery is simply less stressful, safer and a more convenient way to have the surgery they want."

What is twilight surgery?

The aim of twilight surgery is to produce a sleepy but rousable patient who is free from anxiety and pain. Some clients may sleep throughout the procedure, however, other clients may be wakeful and, as such, be able to communicate. The sedation is administered and monitored by fully accredited and experienced consultant anaesthetists, within hospital or clinic sites approved by the Healthcare Commission. Twilight surgery is popular for clients undergoing a range of cosmetic surgery procedures such as ear reshaping, eye bag removal, liposuction and breast augmentation.

Benefits

This pioneering procedure means that clients can enjoy the following benefits:

• Stress free surgery under local anaesthesia
• No general anaesthesia
• No overnight stay
• Less bleeding and bruising
• Shorter recovery time
• Avoidance of the problems associated with general anaesthesia such as nausea, vomiting, sore throat and breathing difficulties

Rebecca, a 35-year-old IT consultant from Rugby, Warwickshire, talks us through her twilight surgery experience:

"When I decided that I wanted to have a breast enlargement procedure, the thought of general anaesthetic almost put me off having the procedure itself. The last time I had general anaesthetic - when I had my tonsils out - I freaked out and had to be held down.

"However, when researching where to have my surgical procedure, I came across MySpa in Cheshire. Although I hadn't heard of twilight surgery, I decided to book a consultation and find out more. The surgeon and care co-ordinator were fantastic - they answered all my questions, were confident and after a thorough consultation, reassured me that this was the most suitable anaesthetic for my needs.

"When I arrived at the hospitalon the day of my procedure, I was really nervous. However, the surgeon reassured me and gave me a hug. When I caught sight of my chest. I remembered why, and how much, I wanted this procedure.

"Once in the theatre, I completely relaxed - a painkiller and sedative were injected into the back of my hand. Next thing I knew, I'm being moved onto another bed. It felt like I'd only had time to blink. I looked down and there they were - my brand new boobs.

"Apparently, I chatted throughout the procedure but I can't remember a thing. A few hours after, I was up and about and not in too much pain. Patients would normally go home after a few more hours, but as it's such a long drive from Cheshire to Rugby, I opted to stay overnight.

"The next day, I was given three different kinds of painkillers and the phone number of the surgeon and the nurse. Reassured, I slept all the way home! I arranged to have the next week off work to rest and recuperate.

"One week later, I went back to the clinic in Cheshire so they could remove my dressings and check the wounds. The stitches had dissolved and the inch long scars were healing perfectly. My new boobs look fabulous and really natural. They were worth every penny and if it wasn't for the option of twilight surgery I may never have had them done. I'd recommend that anyone who has a fear of general anaesthetic has a consultation with MySpa to find out more."
CSMUK