Anesthesia Techniques in In-Office Aesthetic Surgery: A Narrative Review

This narrative review explores the use of anesthesia in in-office aesthetic surgery for non-invasive body contouring procedures. Local and regional anesthesia techniques are commonly employed, with rare complications reported. Transversus abdominis plane blocks are effective in reducing pain and opioid use in abdominal surgeries, while pectoralis, serratus anterior, and erector spinae plane blocks provide good pain control in breast surgeries. The use of ultrasound technology enables plastic surgeons to perform anesthetic blocks, improving patient comfort and reducing opioid reliance. Topical anesthesia is generally safe, while tumescent anesthesia carries a risk of systemic toxicity. Sedation may be utilized alongside local anesthesia to help patients relax and alleviate anxiety during procedures. Further research is needed to explore the safety and efficacy of different anesthesia methods in in-office aesthetic surgery.