anaesthetic

[misslideaway]

I am thinking about going under the knife but am particularly scared about anaesthetic. Can anyone who has perhaps had an operation themselves, give me some good advice or refer me to a website that can reassure me?

[gingerflaps]

whenever i have had an op ive always been fine, nothing to it, i wake up not knowing ive gone under, i little bit 'not with it' but ok......although, my auntie went under to have her gaul stone removed and she woke up half way thru the op, they never gave her enough anistetic, that little story has put me off 4 life, sorry

[elleroo]

my dad recently went for an op which took 4 hours and he woke up fine within 10 mins and felt a little lightheaded but that was it. he reacted badly to it only one time and that was only cos he had to have two emergency ops within about a week of eachother, and even then it was only a feeling of sickness and dizziness. dont worry!

[milly143]

I've had 6 ops in the past year, all under a general and there is nothing to worry about whatsoever.You have a nurse with you the whole time who just talks to you about the world and his wife and will give you any reasurrance you need. I personally don't mind needles but even if you did it's not bad, it really doesnt hurt and then before you know it you're awake again. I always cry when I wake up for no reason which is apparantly common for women, after that you just feel a bit tired for a while.

[rja211077]

there are risks but they're very small indeed. I can't back this up with actual figures but I'd wager that you're FAR more likely to come to harm on your way to the hospital (whatever method you use). what you having done?

[Woodstock]

General anaesthetics are wonderful - I'd like a dose every night!!

[Philtaz]

Depends on the operation.  What are you having done?  When you say 'thinking about going under the knife' is it for something cosmetic?

There are many different types of anaesthetic for different operations.  There is local, regional, spinal, nerve block and general and all suit different operations.

Tell us what op you are thinking about and we can advise you further.

[misslideaway]

Well, some people do class it as cosmetic..although it is a necessity for me.. Its for a breast reduction, on the NHS.

[Kilala]

I watched a programme about a breast reduction- the woman was so so nervous.  Nothing to worry about, the rsks are tiny, and the recovery time nothing at all when you consider all the years of discomfort behind you and the freedom and confidence that stretches out into your future.

Go for it, be sensible, do what the doctor says, voice any concerns and trust them.  I have had many, many operations, none of them optional, some of them high risk, all of them left me feeling slightly drunk/hungover, but always safe!

Keep us posted!

[Philtaz]

That op will require a general anaesthetic.  Everyone is anxious before an operation, that's understandable but you'll be in safe hands and the staff will do their best to ensure that things run smoothly. Modern anaethesia is unbelievably safe and effective so you need not worry.

Best of luck.