Awake Plastic Surgery In South Florida

Is Awake Plastic Surgery safe?

Yes. Awake Plastic Surgery is considered very safe when performed on properly selected patients. By avoiding general anesthesia, many of the risks associated with being “put to sleep” are eliminated. Dr. Schwitzer carefully evaluates each patient to ensure this approach is appropriate and safe.

Is Awake Plastic Surgery painful?

Many patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the experience is. Before surgery begins, the treatment area is carefully numbed with local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. You may notice some brief stinging or pressure as the anesthetic is administered, but this sensation is temporary.

During the procedure itself, patients may feel pressure, movement, or vibrations, but not sharp pain. Many describe the experience as relaxed and much easier than expected — some even listen to music, chat, or rest throughout their surgery.

It’s important to note that certain areas of the body — such as those with scar tissue from prior surgeries or procedures, or areas naturally more sensitive like those around bone, the umbilicus (belly button), or the nipple — may cause slightly more discomfort during awake surgery. Dr. Schwitzer will discuss this with you during your consultation and explain what you can expect based on your specific procedure.

After the procedure, mild soreness or discomfort is normal, but it is usually manageable with over-the-counter medication and tends to improve quickly.

What are the risks associated with Awake Plastic Surgery?

Awake Plastic Surgery is considered a very safe option for appropriately selected patients, but like any medical procedure, it does carry some risks. Some patients may experience discomfort or anxiety during surgery, particularly if they are uneasy about remaining awake, even with the use of sedation. In certain cases, additional local anesthetic may be needed if an area is not fully numb.

While pain is minimized, patients may still notice sensations such as pressure, vibration, or sound, which can feel unsettling for some. It is also common to experience temporary swelling, bruising, or soreness after the procedure, which typically improves within days to weeks. As with any surgery, there is also a small risk of bleeding, infection, or delayed wound healing, though these complications are rare.

In addition to these general considerations, each type of plastic surgery carries its own procedure-specific risks — for example, visible scarring after skin excisions, contour irregularities after liposuction, or asymmetry after fat transfer. These will all be reviewed in detail during your consultation so you can make a fully informed decision.

Dr. Schwitzer minimizes risks through careful patient selection, meticulous technique, and a focus on your comfort and safety every step of the way.